Global leaders have voiced strong condemnation over Israel's renewed airstrikes on Gaza, which have resulted in the deaths of hundreds, including women and children, and threaten to dismantle a recently established ceasefire.
Jordan, a US ally with a peace treaty with Israel, described the attacks as "aggressive and barbaric." Egypt, which played a role in brokering the ceasefire, labeled the bombings a "flagrant violation" of the truce that began in mid-January.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern over the "intolerable suffering" faced by Palestinians in Gaza. Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, warned that resuming hostilities would create "hell on Earth." Volker Türk, the UN's human rights chief, called the airstrikes "horrifying" and urged an immediate end to the violence. He emphasized the need for a political resolution, stating that military action would only worsen the plight of Palestinians.
Muhannad Hadi, the UN's humanitarian coordinator for the occupied Palestinian territory, described Israel's actions as "unconscionable." Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces allegations of war crimes at the international criminal court, including accusations of civilian starvation and extermination.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy criticized Israel's blockade of aid to Gaza as a breach of international law, while the UK Prime Minister's office condemned the civilian casualties from the strikes. The EU's aid commissioner, Hadja Lahbib, called the renewed violence "devastating" and urged for it to cease.
Egyptian mediators, caught off guard by the airstrikes, are now working to restore the ceasefire. Qatar and Saudi Arabia have also condemned Israel's actions. Arab nations, concerned about potential ethnic cleansing under a US-backed plan, have proposed rebuilding Gaza, though implementation remains uncertain without Israeli cooperation.
Turkey, a strong supporter of Palestine, accused Israel of escalating its "policy of genocide." The European Commission urged Hamas to release hostages and called on Israel to exercise restraint and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.
European Council President António Costa expressed shock and sadness, calling for respect of the ceasefire and immediate humanitarian aid. France and Italy condemned the strikes, warning they jeopardize efforts to free hostages and endanger civilians. Germany, a close ally of Israel, expressed "great concern" over the situation.
Israel claims the strikes targeted mid-level Hamas commanders and infrastructure, with prior consultation from the US. Former French ambassador Gérard Araud criticized the operation as lacking a clear military objective and inflicting undue suffering on civilians.