The United Nations’ human rights office on October 13 called on all states to insist on international law being fully respected in the conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas.
Israel’s military on Friday called for all civilians of Gaza City, more than 1 million people, to relocate south within 24 hours, as it amassed tanks ahead of an expected ground invasion after a devastating attack by the militant group.
“We are calling for a global call, an unequivocal call from every member state in the international community, particularly those with influence, to insist upon full respect for international humanitarian law,” said Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, without naming any states.
The UN office has echoed appeals for Israel to rescind its call for civilians to relocate.
“This order is affecting more than a million Palestinians, including children, older and sick people, forcing them to relocate with little or no transport and with scant guarantees for their safety, amidst continuing hostilities,” Shamdasani said.
The UN human rights office had also noted an increase in antisemitic and Islamophobic hate speech around the world, she added.
“We call on political and other leaders to speak out, unequivocally, against such speech, and to take clear measures to stem any advocacy of national, racial or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence,” said Shamdasani.
Countries such as France and Britain have reported antisemitic incidents and acts since Hamas’ assaults on Israel at the weekend.
(Inputs from Reuters)