New York (Web Desk): Over 30 United Nations (UN) human rights experts expressed strong condemnation of US President Donald Trump's recent remarks about the potential takeover of Gaza and the forced relocation of its Palestinian population.
The experts deemed the proposal "shocking" and warned that such an action would be in direct violation of international law.
They emphasized that any attempt to annex Gaza through military force and deport its people would break the most fundamental principles established after World War II, and would create a dangerous precedent for other nations to engage in aggressive territorial expansion.
The statement highlighted the severity of the US proposal, suggesting that it would tear apart the global order built on peace and security, and push the world back into the era of colonial conquests.
Forcibly taking over land, deporting its inhabitants, and denying the Palestinians their right to self-determination would not only defy international law but also destabilize global peace efforts.
The experts warned that such actions could lead to a return to a world where might makes right, replacing the rule of law with the law of the strongest.
They also pointed out the long history of Israeli occupation and how it has failed to bring peace or security to either Israelis or Palestinians.
They stressed that a US occupation would only exacerbate the ongoing conflict, perpetuating cycles of war and suffering.
The experts also referenced the war crimes recognized in the Geneva Conventions, particularly regarding the mass deportation of civilians from occupied territories, noting that this proposal would escalate the forced displacement of Palestinians.
This would add to the long history of such actions, which began during the Nakba in 1947-48, and has continued through demolitions, evictions, and illegal settlement expansions.
Additionally, the statement critiqued President Trump’s previous actions, including his controversial recognition of Israel’s annexation of East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights, which have been widely rejected by the international community.
The experts urged the US to adopt a more constructive role, calling for support in brokering a ceasefire, providing aid to Palestinians, and ensuring accountability for violations of international law.
They also called for support for multilateral institutions that protect human rights in Palestine, including the UN Human Rights Council and the International Criminal Court.
Amid the ongoing Israeli military attacks on Gaza, which have resulted in thousands of Palestinian deaths and widespread destruction, the experts stressed that all nations committed to human rights and the rule of law must oppose such unlawful actions.
They warned that allowing such moves would threaten global peace and security, reinforcing the need to uphold international norms to prevent further escalation.
