Reaction to Israel's actions in Gaza and the West Bank at the UN Human Rights Council

The 63rd Session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) started at the UN Geneva Office.

Speaking at the opening of the meeting chaired by Indonesia's Permanent Representative to the UN Geneva Office, Ambassador Sidharto Reza Suryodipuro, Turk said, "Israel killed more than 1,300 Palestinians with daily attacks despite the ceasefire declared in Gaza almost a year ago. It continues to restrict the entry of humanitarian aid. Israel's suggestions for the forcible removal of all Palestinians from the Gaza Strip and the persistent inhumane practices of some senior Israeli officials." "I was appalled by his statements." he said.

Türk pointed out that Israel continues the annexation of the West Bank despite the clear decision of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Calling on countries to take action to prevent the occupation from becoming permanent in the lands reserved for Palestinians within the scope of the two-state solution, Türk said, "Countries must stop the transfer of weapons to Israel that risk being used to violate international law. Companies must also end business practices that support illegal settlements." he said.

Emphasizing that much greater efforts of the international community are needed for sustainable peace, where Palestine and Israel live side by side with equal dignity and rights in accordance with UN resolutions and international law, Türk underlined that words of condemnation are meaningless in the face of deliberate violations and suffering.