The UAE has made a fervent call for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Palestine, in the aftermath of a devastating Israeli airstrike on Al Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza, resulting in the tragic death of at least 500 individuals.
Dr. Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President, underscored the importance of shielding civilians from the perils of warfare, and of abiding by international humanitarian laws meant to protect them.
Taking to Twitter, Dr. Gargash expressed his anguish over the catastrophic event, saying, “The devastating human tragedy and harrowing scenes witnessed due to the condemned targeting of the Baptist Hospital in Gaza by Israeli forces underscore the imperative of protecting civilians…We grieve for the lives lost, honour the martyrs, and reiterate the urgent necessity to halt the violence and bloodshed.”
In response to the crisis, the UAE, in collaboration with Russia, has requested an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council slated for October 18.
Shahad Matar, spokesperson for the UAE’s permanent mission to the UN, confirmed the joint call for the meeting, emphasizing the significance of addressing the current situation in the Middle East, notably the pressing Palestinian issue, in the wake of the recent hospital airstrike.