People mourn victims killed during Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Feb. 12, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
The United Nations' (UN) Human Rights chief Volker Turk has strongly condemned recent Israeli strikes in Rafah that resulted in the deaths of many women and children.
In a statement on Tuesday, Turk also warned against a full-scale incursion into an area with over 1.2 million civilians, saying it would violate international humanitarian and human rights law, likely leading to more atrocities.
In March, the UN Security Council called for an immediate ceasefire, he stressed.
Moreover, he underscored the need for global solidarity to protect civilians in Rafah, recalling recent tragedies such as a premature baby delivered from a mother who had been mortally wounded in an air strike and the deaths of numerous children and women in separate strikes.
The UN human rights chief called for immediate actions to halt this suffering, calling for independent investigations into reports of mass graves and the destruction of medical facilities. He stressed the urgent need for a ceasefire, the release of hostages and unimpeded humanitarian aid.
Entire mall in Georgia is closed after 'shots are fired inside
Creations of Laurèl staged at China Fashion Week
Space station's coating tech enhances food preservation on Earth
Geopark listed in UNESCO network
China's archaeological site parks register strong revenue growth
Xiplomacy: China Elevates Ties with Palestine, Pledging Support
Xi Sends Congratulatory Letter to Forum on Global Human Rights Governance
Chinese sightseers flock to Tianshui as spicy hot pot goes viral
Chinese FM holds talks with Bolivian counterpart
Explainer: Understanding Inclusiveness of Chinese Civilization
Syrian, Russian forces destroy 'terrorist' strongholds in N. Syria
Xi Story: China's Youth Stand at Forefront of Innovation