Leaders of major emerging economies have called for an end to Israel’s offensive in Gaza and a halt to hostilities on both sides to alleviate the escalating humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. The BRICS grouping, in a virtual summit led by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, condemned attacks on civilians in both Palestine and Israel. Many leaders within BRICS referred to the forced displacement of Palestinians, whether within Gaza or beyond, as “war crimes.”
President Ramaphosa, in his opening statement, asserted that Israel’s actions constitute a clear violation of international law, and the collective punishment of Palestinian civilians amounts to a war crime, akin to genocide. He also held Hamas accountable for violating international law.
India, represented by Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, took a relatively softer stance, emphasizing the need for restraint, immediate humanitarian support, and a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.
Several member states, including Russia and Brazil, had previously criticized Israel’s continuous bombardment and subsequent ground invasion of the Gaza Strip. China, on its part, hosted a delegation of Muslim countries, officials, and organizations this week, advocating for a ceasefire, with the Palestinian Authority (PA) among the participants.
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