BERLIN: Sweden has asked Israel to adhere to its obligations under international law and avoid targeting areas in the Gaza Strip where there is a risk of civilian casualties. Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom stressed that Israel’s self-defense must align with international humanitarian law.
“Of course, Israel has a right to defend itself, but that defense has to be taking place within the framework of international humanitarian law,” Billstrom stated. “That means that you are not allowed to target civilians, you are not allowed to target civilian installations, and that has to be emphasized.”
Billstrom’s remarks followed a series of Israeli airstrikes on the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza, resulting in the destruction of entire apartment buildings and causing casualties among Palestinian civilians.
Addressing the situation, Billstrom called for de-escalation, diplomatic negotiations, and renewed efforts toward a two-state solution. He urged both Israel and Palestinian groups to take steps to create conditions conducive to diplomatic talks.
“What we need now is de-escalation, a return to negotiations, the avoidance of civilian casualties, and at the end of the day, the establishment of a two-state solution whereby Israel and Palestine, the Israelis and Palestinians, can live together side by side in two states, secure and safe,” he said.
Sweden Announces Humanitarian Aid Package for Gaza
Meanwhile, Sweden announced a new humanitarian aid package to address urgent needs in the Gaza Strip, focusing particularly on women and children. The Swedish government pledged 150 million Swedish krona ($13.5 million) to organizations such as the World Food Program, UN Children’s Fund, UN Population Fund, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
United Nations experts issued a warning, stating that “time is running out to prevent genocide and humanitarian catastrophe” in Gaza. The Israeli military campaign has claimed the lives of over 9,227 Palestinians, including more than 6,231 women and children, and left over 32,000 people injured. Additionally, an estimated 1.4 million people have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict.
