The State of Palestine Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Dr Tamer Almassri
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
The State of Palestine has condemned continued Israeli military operations in the West Bank City of Hebron, saying the escalating aggression has displaced approximately 3 000 Palestinians and worsened humanitarian conditions.
In a statement, Ambassador Tamer Almassri said the Israeli operations, now entering their fourth consecutive day, involved intensified raids, military reinforcements, widespread closures, the seizure of Palestinian vehicles, assaults on civilians and forced displacement.
The measures have also resulted in a total lockdown, restricting residents’ movement, disrupting livelihoods and placing an unbearable burden on displaced families.
Ambassador Almassri accused Israel of extending its campaign of ethnic cleansing to Hebron, similar to what he said had been carried out in Gaza.
He said systematic demolitions, mass displacement and collective punishment of Palestinians constituted flagrant violations of international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions.
Ambassador Almassri also condemned the continued closure of the Ibrahimi Mosque, also known as the Sanctuary of Abraham, and restrictions on worshippers seeking access to the sacred site.
He said the restrictions represented a blatant assault on freedom of worship and the sanctity of holy places.
The situation has further compounded the humanitarian challenges facing residents, with movement restrictions and disruptions to livelihoods affecting families already struggling with deteriorating living conditions.
The State of Palestine has called on the international community and the United Nations Security Council to take immediate and effective action to halt the operations in Hebron and prevent the forced displacement of residents.
It also called for accountability for alleged violations committed by Israel, which it described as the occupying power, and urged the provision of urgent international protection for the Palestinian people.
