In a recent interview with FRANCE 24, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, expressed profound concern over the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, deeming it “apocalyptic.” Türk criticized severe breaches of international humanitarian law in Gaza, pointing to the Israeli blockade and the use of explosives in densely populated areas. When asked about deliberate targeting of civilians by Israel, Türk asserted that “the facts speak for themselves.”
Highlighting the gravity of the situation with over 7,000 children killed and 70 percent of victims being women and children, Türk raised concerns about proportionality, the application of the principle of distinction, and the lack of precaution. Türk explained that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres invoking Article 99 of the UN Charter aimed to convey the urgency of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Türk emphasized the absence of meaningful humanitarian assistance and referred to the letter as “a clarion call to the world to wake up to the situation in Gaza.”
Addressing sexual crimes committed by Hamas on October 7, Türk unequivocally condemned the actions as utterly unacceptable and called for a thorough investigation. Expressing extreme concern about the rise in anti-Semitism and anti-Muslim bigotry during the Israel-Hamas war, Türk stressed the need to confront and address these issues.
Turning to the war in Sudan, Türk described the situation as “absolutely disastrous” and expressed devastation over warring generals not abiding by international law. He highlighted the extremely worrying situation in Darfur, urging influential parties to make it clear that the current state is “not acceptable.” Türk concluded by expressing hope for accountability and justice in the face of recent atrocities.
