Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on Tuesday said Israel's military response to the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks "has gone far beyond the limits" of international and humanitarian law, leaving Gaza "in ruins" and civilians facing "unimaginable suffering," reported Xinhua.
"Every country has the right to defend itself against terrorism. Equally important, such defense must be conducted in accordance with international law," Eide said in a statement marking the second anniversary of the attacks.
He called for "an immediate ceasefire," the release of all hostages, and "unimpeded and safe access for aid workers and humanitarian aid" to the Palestinian population in Gaza.
Eide reiterated Norway's condemnation of Hamas's Oct. 7 assault, which he said killed around 1,200 people and saw 251 taken hostages. He demanded the "immediate and unconditional" release of remaining hostages and access for the International Committee of the Red Cross, noting that taking civilians hostage is a grave violation of international law.
"In the longer term, only a political solution – one that enables the Israeli and Palestinian states to exist side by side within mutually recognized borders – can bring about a more peaceful, stable, and secure future," he said, adding that Norway stands ready to support efforts that advance such a solution.
- Israeli
- Attack
- Gaza
- Norway
- FM
Source: www.dailyfinland.fi
