Statement by Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on the situation in Gaza
News story | Date: 12/10/2024 | Ministry of Foreign Affairs
For more than a year, the people of Gaza have lived in fear of death and destruction. While much attention is focused on Lebanon and a possible escalation in the region, the war in Gaza continues. The humanitarian situation is deteriorating dramatically.
– In northern parts of Gaza, 400,000 people are under siege, according to the UN. Air strikes and fierce fighting are ongoing, and hundreds of lives have been lost in just a few days. Emergency aid has not arrived in this area for several days. Children and other civilians are being hit hard. Schools, hospitals and homes are destroyed or razed to the ground.
– In one year, local authorities say more than 42,000 people have been killed in Gaza, and 17,000 of them may be children. On average, this means almost 50 children are killed in Gaza every day.
– We have repeatedly criticized both Israel and Hamas for violating the rules of war. Israel's brutal warfare in Gaza includes indiscriminate and disproportionate attacks, as well as measures that prevent the population from receiving humanitarian aid. This is in violation of the rules of war.
– The Israeli authorities are still largely preventing access to food and necessary emergency aid. The UN warns that without increased access for humanitarian aid and commercial food trade, Gaza will experience full-scale famine by November. Civilians, the sick and wounded must receive protection, food and essential medical assistance.
– A ceasefire, the release of the hostages and enough emergency aid for the people of Gaza will be important first steps. But a ceasefire is not a solution. Only a two-state solution and respect for international law can provide lasting stability and security in the Middle East. I call on all parties to de-escalate and to replace force of arms with diplomacy and negotiations.