01-05-2025
Oman condemns blockade imposed on Gaza
NEW YORK: The Sultanate of Oman condemned the blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip, warning of the consequences of the continued use of starvation and forced displacement as weapons of war. Oman stressed the need to hold perpetrators accountable for these grave violations.
This was stated by Omar bin Saif al Kharousi, the Permanent Representative of the Sultanate of Oman to the United Nations, before the Security Council during discussions on 'The Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Cause.'
He said that the Middle East continues to face various challenges since the establishment of the United Nations, particularly the Palestinian issue and the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people. Gaza has now become one of the most horrific scenes of humanitarian disaster due to the brutal Israeli aggression against thousands of innocent civilians, he added.
He warned against international complacency in stopping this aggression, emphasising that the daily massacres, collective starvation, and systematic targeting of civilians and infrastructure - including hospitals, schools and shelters - constitute a blatant violation of all international norms and conventions and amount to crimes against humanity.
The Sultanate of Oman has expressed its deep appreciation for the tremendous efforts made by UN agencies, particularly UNRWA, and its field staff who continue their humanitarian work under the most severe conditions, risking their lives to deliver humanitarian and medical aid to civilians in Gaza.
Oman has condemned attempts to weaken UNRWA and obstruct its humanitarian operations, calling on the international community to ensure its continued funding and support so that it may fulfil its vital mandate.
Further, Oman stressed the necessity of providing protection for UN personnel and ensuring their work continues unimpeded and free from targeting. It emphasised that the Security Council cannot demand respect for its resolutions on other issues while turning a blind eye to the implementation of its decisions on the Palestinian cause, particularly Resolution 2735 (2024), which called for an immediate ceasefire. — ONA
