Al-Azhar Condemns Israeli Blockade of Gaza Aid During Ramadan as Humanitarian Crisis
Al-Azhar condemned Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza during Ramadan, labeling it a crime against innocent civilians. The institution called for international intervention to lift the siege and hold Israel accountable for its actions. This condemnation occurs amid ongoing conflict that has resulted in significant casualties and destruction in Gaza, alongside international legal proceedings against Israeli officials.
On Monday, Al-Azhar, Egypt’s esteemed Islamic authority, condemned Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza during Ramadan, characterizing it as a deliberate “crime of starving innocent children, women, and men.” The statement, shared on X, criticized Israel’s actions as a severe violation of human decency, which threatens the lives of vulnerable civilians during this holy month of fasting.
Al-Azhar called upon Islamic governments to leverage political and diplomatic avenues to lift the siege on Gaza, emphasizing the moral imperative to alleviate the suffering of the populace. The statement highlighted that the blockade effectively forces Palestinians to face starvation or abandon their homes in favor of fleeing from the Israeli occupation.
The institution urged both Islamic nations and the global community to press for the immediate reopening of border crossings to facilitate humanitarian aid and to hold Israel accountable for its actions. Furthermore, it advocated for the prosecution of individuals who have committed severe atrocities, seeking justice for those affected.
The Israeli government had recently suspended the entry of humanitarian assistance into Gaza as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refused to engage in negotiations for the next phase of a ceasefire with Hamas. This ongoing conflict has led to the deaths of nearly 48,400 individuals, primarily women and children, resulting in widespread devastation across the enclave.
Additionally, the International Criminal Court had previously issued arrest warrants against Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for their alleged roles in war crimes committed in Gaza. Israel also faces an ongoing genocide case at the International Court of Justice regarding its military actions in the region.
Al-Azhar has strongly criticized Israel’s blockade of aid to Gaza during Ramadan, referring to it as a dishonorable act that starves innocent civilians. The institution has called for immediate diplomatic measures to resolve the humanitarian crisis and demanded justice for those responsible for war crimes. The urgent need for international action underscores the significance of protecting human rights, especially during a sacred period like Ramadan.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
