In a collective response to reports about the impending Israeli military operation in Rafah, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand have issued a joint statement on Thursday, urging an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza.
The statement released by the prime ministers of the three nations expressed profound concern over indications that Israel is planning a ground assault on Rafah, adding that any military operation in Rafah would be catastrophic, according to Reuters.
The communique highlighted the urgent necessity for a ceasefire on humanitarian grounds.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Wednesday that Israel would proceed with its attack on Hamas in Rafah, the last refuge for displaced Palestinians in southern Gaza, after allowing civilians to evacuate the area.
The statement implored Israel to refrain from launching the attack but noted that a ceasefire cannot be “unilateral” and would require Hamas to disarm and immediately release all remaining hostages.
The leaders also referenced the International Court of Justice’s ruling in January in the genocide case brought by South Africa, which obligates Israel to protect civilians and provide essential services and urgent humanitarian aid.
The statement concluded that protecting civilians is paramount and a necessity under international humanitarian law, and they must not be forced to pay the price for the defeat of Hamas.
