UN Chief Antonio Guterres has strongly denounced the extensive human suffering and the collective punitive measures affecting Palestinian civilians, as reported by various media outlets.
Amid ongoing conflict, Guterres and several global leaders have consistently urged for a ceasefire. However, Israel has expressed its determination to continue its campaign until it perceives Hamas as defeated, a stance supported by its influential ally, the United States.
In a concerning development, Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich proposed the return of Jewish settlers to Gaza following the conflict, advocating for the encouragement of emigration among the Palestinian population.
Smotrich articulated his perspective, stating, "If we act strategically and promote emigration, reducing Gaza's population from two million to 100,000 or 200,000 would significantly alter the post-conflict landscape," during an interview with Israeli army radio.
Media reports clarified that the minister's suggestions did not necessarily align with the broader government's stance. Nonetheless, Hamas swiftly condemned Smotrich's remarks, interpreting them as an endorsement of expelling two million Palestinians and categorizing them as a potential war crime.
(With Agency Inputs)
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