25 NATIONS SLAM ISRAEL OVER “INHUMANE KILLING OF CIVILIANS” IN GAZA
In a growing chorus of international condemnation, 25 countries have jointly denounced Israel for what they describe as the “inhumane killing of civilians” in Gaza, intensifying diplomatic pressure amid one of the deadliest phases of the Israel-Gaza conflict in recent years. The statement, issued after a closed-door session at the United Nations, accuses Israel of excessive use of force, collective punishment, and violations of international humanitarian law.
The condemnation comes in response to the rising civilian death toll in Gaza, which has surged past 30,000, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Many of the victims are women and children, and hospitals, schools, and refugee shelters have been among the structures hit in Israeli airstrikes. These 25 nations, including members from Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Europe, argued that such actions cannot be justified under the pretext of counter-terrorism or self-defense.
Prominent among the signatories were South Africa, Brazil, Ireland, Norway, Malaysia, and Chile. In their joint declaration, the countries called for an immediate ceasefire and unfettered humanitarian access to the besieged enclave. “The indiscriminate targeting and killing of civilians is a clear breach of international law,” the statement read. “No state should be allowed to act with impunity.”
Israel, for its part, has defended its military operations, insisting they are targeting Hamas militants and infrastructure following the October 7 cross-border attacks that left over 1,200 Israelis dead and saw hundreds taken hostage. The Israeli government accuses Hamas of using civilians as human shields and placing military installations near homes and hospitals, complicating the task of avoiding civilian casualties.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry responded to the joint criticism by accusing the signatory nations of hypocrisy and failing to condemn Hamas. “It is deeply troubling that these countries ignore the atrocities committed by Hamas while unjustly vilifying a democracy defending itself,” a spokesperson said.
The United States, Israel’s closest ally, did not sign the statement but expressed “deep concern” over the high civilian toll. While continuing to support Israel’s right to self-defense, Washington has increasingly called for restraint and more humanitarian aid into Gaza.
The United Nations and several aid agencies have warned of a humanitarian catastrophe. Food, water, and medical supplies are critically low, with large parts of Gaza in ruins. Over 70% of the population has been displaced, and many are now living in makeshift shelters under dire conditions.
The move by the 25 nations adds to mounting legal and political scrutiny of Israel’s military conduct. The International Criminal Court (ICC) is reportedly assessing allegations of war crimes by both Israeli forces and Hamas.
As the war drags on with no resolution in sight, global outrage is rising. Protests have erupted in several capital cities, and international calls for a permanent ceasefire are growing louder. The unified stance of the 25 nations may mark a turning point in diplomatic efforts to halt the violence and seek accountability