Tel Aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply criticized a joint statement by the UK, France, and Canada that calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. In a statement released late Monday, Netanyahu argued that the call to halt Israeli military operations is tantamount to offering "a huge prize" for what he terms "the genocidal attack" on Israel in October 2023. He reaffirmed Israel's commitment to continue its military campaign until "a total victory is achieved."
According to Anadolu Agency, Netanyahu contended that the conflict could conclude swiftly if certain conditions are met, such as the release of hostages, disarmament of Hamas, the exile of its leaders, and the demilitarization of Gaza. The Prime Minister, who is currently wanted by the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza, has rejected international appeals for a ceasefire.
On Monday, the UK, France, and Canada issued a stern warning to Israel, advocating for an immediate halt to military operations in Gaza and the easing of restrictions on humanitarian aid. The joint statement emphasized the intolerable level of human suffering in Gaza and criticized Israel's recent announcement to allow a limited amount of food into the region as "wholly inadequate."
The three nations further accused Israel of obstructing essential humanitarian assistance, cautioning that such actions could potentially violate International Humanitarian Law. The statement warned of "further concrete actions" if Israel does not cease its military offensive and lift its restrictions on humanitarian aid.
Despite these international calls, the Israeli military has continued its offensive against Gaza since October 2023, resulting in the deaths of nearly 53,500 Palestinians, many of whom are women and children.