DUBAI: Belgium’s Prime Minister, Alexander De Croo, on Saturday said that he had communicated directly with Israel’s President in response to the resumption of Israeli military airstrikes and ground offensive in Gaza, sternly asserting that there could be no further loss of civilian lives.
The fragile week-old truce between Israel and Hamas shattered on Friday, leading to renewed attacks as mediators failed to extend the pause. Both sides have traded accusations for the breakdown in negotiations.
Speaking at the COP28 UN climate summit in Dubai, Prime Minister De Croo addressed the situation, stating, “I have addressed my concerns about the fact that violence has started again, and I have again repeated what I said at the Rafah gate: no more civilian killings.”
The Belgian leader had previously made strong statements at the Egyptian-controlled Rafah border crossing into Gaza, prompting Israel to summon the Belgian and Spanish ambassadors. De Croo had emphasized the necessity for Israel to respect international humanitarian law, deeming the destruction of Gaza unacceptable and demanding an end to civilian casualties.
Belgian PM Demands Protection of Gaza Civilians
While an Israeli official asserted on Friday that the military abides by international law and seeks to minimize civilian casualties, Prime Minister De Croo maintained his stance on Saturday. He underscored the importance of preventing further harm to civilians.
After the temporary truce’s end, Israeli airstrikes have targeted areas in Gaza, resulting in hundreds of casualties, according to health officials in the region. Sirens warning of rocket fire were sounded in Israeli communities near Gaza on Saturday.
Expressing regret over the renewed violence, De Croo conveyed hope for the swift liberation of hostages and advocated for permanent humanitarian access to address the dire situation on the ground.
