Turkey alleges Israel's immunity as cause for famine in Gaza

In the midst of a deepening crisis, Turkey has once again spoken out against the Israeli government's actions in the Gaza Strip. According to Turkey's Foreign Ministry, holding those responsible for war crimes accountable in court is a fundamental obligation of international law and humanity.

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has also made remarks on the humanitarian catastrophe caused by Israel's policies against Palestinians in Gaza. The UN-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report, released recently, highlights the extent of the crisis.

The IPC report describes the situation in Gaza as a humanitarian catastrophe, with more than half a million people facing catastrophic conditions. In fact, as of Aug. 15, famine was confirmed in Gaza City. The report classifies the situation in Gaza City as a "catastrophe" level 5, the highest level on the IPC classification system.

The conditions in Gaza are characterized by hunger, poverty, and death, as stated in the IPC report. The enclave reached level 5 of the IPC classification system, defined as "catastrophe." This means that the people of Gaza are facing extreme food shortages, malnutrition, and even starvation.

Turkey has been vocal in its condemnation of Israel's continued war crimes and violations of international law, which have gone unpunished by the international community. The policies implemented by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government against Palestinians in Gaza have been described as genocidal by Turkey's Foreign Ministry.

So far, no international organization or state has effectively assumed responsibility to prosecute or punish those responsible for war crimes and violations of international law allegedly committed by Israel. Both Israel and Iran have not investigated or prosecuted such crimes by their forces, and international cooperation remains limited. However, South Africa has filed a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, which ordered Israel in early 2024 to take measures to prevent genocide in Gaza.

The impunity Israel has given to its war crimes and violations of international law emboldens and recklessly drives its policies, according to Turkey's Foreign Ministry. Establishing a permanent cease-fire is among the most fundamental obligations of international law and humanity, as well as ensuring uninterrupted humanitarian access.

Turkey will continue its unwavering support for the just struggle of the Palestinian people, calling for an end to the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and for those responsible for the crisis to be held accountable. The international community must act now to prevent further suffering and loss of life in Gaza.