Former Federal President Heinz Fischer shares the UN’s concerns about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. After Hamas’ “gigantic crimes” on October 7, Israel has the right to defend itself, Fischer said, but: “Even for defense there are borders and international law that must be respected.”
Hamas’s crimes are “gigantic and unforgivable,” and that is “beyond any doubt.” Israel has the right to defend itself, but even in defense “there are borders and international laws” that must be observed. Ultimately, a Palestinian mother cries for her murdered child as much as an Israeli mother cries for hers, Fischer said.
The United Nations would “do well” to insist on “respect for international law and human rights.” Moreover, people, namely the civilian population, cannot escape from the Gaza Strip. The fact that Austria voted against a UN resolution for a humanitarian ceasefire was “a mistake”.
When asked whether Israel’s right-wing nationalist government leader Benjamin Netanyahu, who was under pressure in his country before October 7 over a controversial judicial reform, might also want to use the current Gaza conflict – as critics believe – for his own domestic political purposes, Fischer has been reserved.
“Focus on Israel’s future”
“I cannot and will not judge, but friends in Israel tell me that the future of this country will not be shaped by Netanyahu. And I think it is important to focus on the future of Israel.”
Lawyer Fischer was equally cautious about what consequences the South African lawsuit against Israel for genocide at the International Court of Justice might have: “It will be an enormously difficult task for the International Court of Justice, based on all the facts presented, to determine a to pass judgment. For me as an individual this is impossible.”
Despite everything, a solution to the conflict in the Middle East could only be achieved with the long-sought ‘two-state solution’, the former Federal President suspected. But this is still far away at the moment. There is even a danger of escalation at the moment, says Fischer.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
