Ramallah, Palestine – The Palestinian National Council condemned the targeting of mourners at a funeral in the Nuseirat refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip.
It deemed the attack a war crime and a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law.
The Council also called on the international community to take immediate action to stop the targeting of civilians.
A dangerous escalation that violates all conventions
The Council affirmed in a statement that targeting civilian gatherings in Nuseirat,
including those participating in the funeral procession for the victims, represents a dangerous escalation.
It also violates all international conventions and agreements stipulating the protection of civilians during armed conflicts.
The statement added that the continued loss of life in the Gaza Strip, including among women and children,
necessitates serious international action to hold those responsible for these violations accountable.
It also called upon international and UN institutions to fulfill their legal
and humanitarian responsibilities regarding the situation in the Gaza Strip.
The Palestinian National Council stressed the necessity of providing international protection for the Palestinian people.
It also emphasized the need to work towards halting military operations targeting residential areas and civilian gatherings.
The Council affirmed that the continued escalation is exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Warnings of escalating violence
The Council also called on the international community to intensify political
and diplomatic efforts to achieve an immediate ceasefire.
It further called for ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid and relief supplies throughout the Gaza Strip,
given the deteriorating humanitarian situation there.
Regional and international calls for de-escalation continue, amid warnings of a wider escalation of violence.
There are also warnings that the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip will worsen as military operations continue.
