Turkey and Slovenia Dismayed by the Ongoing Gaza Genocide

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urkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan condemned the international community on January 23, 2024, for its failure to halt the ongoing genocide in the Gaza Strip. Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, Fidan expressed deep concern about the prolonged violence and its potential regional repercussions.

With the conflict entering its 109th day, Fidan lamented, “It is a shame that the international community is still unable to stop the bloodshed in Gaza and the West Bank.” He accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of turning Gaza into a battleground for military operations aimed at prolonging his political tenure.

Turkey expressed serious concern over reports suggesting that Israel’s actions in Gaza may amount to genocide. Fidan welcomed South Africa’s case before the International Court of Justice, addressing violations by Israel under the 1948 Genocide Convention.

A geographical escalation

Highlighting the risk of a geographical escalation of the conflict, Fidan warned about recent incidents in the Red Sea, Yemen, Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, Iran, and Pakistan. He called on Israel and its supporters to pursue a diplomatic solution, emphasizing the historical responsibility to halt the war.

Fidan criticized the UN Security Council for its failure “time and again” to maintain international peace and security. He called for an immediate and permanent cease-fire, the release of captives by both sides, and continuous humanitarian assistance to Gaza. Fidan stressed the necessity for Israel to comply with peace and security requirements.

Regarding the future of Gaza, Fidan asserted that it should be determined by the Palestinians themselves. He advocated for a focus on creating an independent and sovereign State of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital. Turkey reiterated its call for the establishment of a guarantorship mechanism to monitor and ensure peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

Slovenia calls for a ceasefire

In the face of the escalating genocide in Gaza, Slovenia’s foreign minister, Tanja Fajon, has strongly condemned the Israeli attacks that have persisted for over 100 days. Speaking in New York during an interview with Anadolu, Fajon stressed the urgent need for a cease-fire to end the “humanitarian crisis” unfolding in the region.

Fajon expressed deep concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation, with thousands of casualties, including women and children, and emphasized that “enough is enough.” Calling for an immediate end to hostilities, she urged a political solution, stating that the two-state solution is crucial for the safety of both Israelis and Palestinians.

The foreign minister of Slovenia noted that despite certain differences in positions, there is unity on supporting the two-state solution and opposing forced displacement in Gaza, asserting that the West Bank belongs to Palestinians.

UN questioned

Fajon questioned the efficiency of the UN Security Council in addressing the ongoing conflict, stating that it falls short of providing safety, security, and peace for everyone. She emphasized the collective responsibility to act beyond discussions and underscored the challenging task that lies ahead.

Fajon’s called for an end to the bloodshed in Gaza echoes broader concerns. The conflict not only poses a threat to regional stability but also raises questions about the effectiveness of diplomatic efforts in resolving long-standing geopolitical tensions.

Turning attention to the Gaza Strip, Israel’s continued attacks since October 7, 2023, have resulted in a devastating toll. At least 25,700 Palestinians have been killed, 63,354 injured, and 85% of Gaza’s population is internally displaced. The UN reports that 60% of the enclave’s infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed.

Source: Anadolu Agency