EU, France, and UK Condemn Israeli Minister's Remarks on Gaza

On August 7, the European Union, France, and the UK expressed strong condemnation of Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's controversial comments suggesting that starving two million Gazans could be "justified and moral" to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. Speaking at a conference, Smotrich, a far-right politician and leader of the National Religious Party–Religious Zionism, stated that while humanitarian aid is being provided, the situation necessitates international legitimacy for Israel's military actions. The EU called for the Israeli government to distance itself from Smotrich's remarks, emphasizing the need for humanitarian access to meet the urgent needs of Gazans, particularly children. France echoed this sentiment, expressing "deep dismay" at the minister's "scandalous remarks" and reminding Israel of its obligations under international humanitarian law, given its control over access to Gaza. UK Foreign Minister David Lammy also condemned Smotrich's statements, asserting that there is "no justification" for such comments and urging the Israeli government to retract and denounce them. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has escalated since the outbreak of war on October 7, following a Hamas attack that resulted in significant casualties and the abduction of hostages. As the conflict continues, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with nearly the entire population displaced and facing severe food shortages. The ongoing military campaign has resulted in a staggering death toll, raising urgent calls for international intervention and support for the affected population.