GENEVA: The United Nations human rights chief, Volker Turk, expressed “horror” on Monday at the deadly Israeli air strike on a displacement camp in Rafah, Gaza Strip, demanding “accountability” for the brutal attack.
In a statement, Turk voiced his shock at the loss of Palestinian civilian lives resulting from the strike on the Al Hashash area in Rafah, which killed 45 Palestinian civilians, according to Gaza officials. “The images from the camp are horrific and point to no apparent change in the methods and means of warfare used by Israel that have already led to so many civilian deaths,” Volker Turk said in a statement.
The strike triggered a fire that engulfed a tent city for displaced Palestinians. “Sunday’s strike underscores once again that there is literally no safe place in Gaza”, Turk said.
Turk condemned the attack, stating that it highlighted the lack of safe spaces for civilians in Gaza. He emphasized the need for accountability and changes in policy or practices, particularly when strikes occur in densely populated civilian areas.
The Israeli attack drew widespread condemnation from the global community, who labeled it a “massacre.”
Turk stressed the importance of Israel’s compliance with an International Court of Justice order issued on Friday to halt the offensive in Rafah. But, he said, “What is shockingly clear is that by striking such an area, densely packed with civilians, this was an entirely predictable outcome”. “It is crucial that such reviews lead to accountability and changes in policy or practices.”
He reiterated the call for all parties to establish a ceasefire and protect civilians in accordance with their obligations under international humanitarian law.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights called for immediate steps to protect civilians and ensure access to humanitarian assistance. He also urged Hamas to cease the firing of rockets, which violate international humanitarian law.
Since October 7 last year, Israel has launched a relentless bombardment campaign in Gaza killing at least 36,050 Palestinian people, mostly women and children, according to the territory’s health ministry.
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