By Hosea Parah, Abuja

The Embassy of the State of Palestine in Nigeria has condemned the intensifying violence in Gaza, characterizing the situation as genocide rather than merely a humanitarian crisis. This strong statement comes in light of disturbing reports highlighting the severe toll on civilians, particularly children.

During a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, Ambassador Abdullah M. Abu Shawesh appealed to global leaders to acknowledge the urgent nature of the crisis. He referenced comments from Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), who described the conditions in Gaza as “hell on earth” for children.

As the conflict reaches its 384th day, the Embassy shared alarming statistics: over 42,603 fatalities have been registered, including 17,000 children and 786 infants. The humanitarian crisis is worsening, with 100,282 individuals reported injured and critical shortages of medical care, food, and clean water.

The statement emphasized the tragic fate of families, noting that countless children have been orphaned and are enduring harrowing circumstances. Furthermore, around 12,500 cancer patients face life-threatening risks due to a lack of adequate treatment, while approximately 35,055 children are left without parental care.

The situation in the occupied West Bank is equally troubling, with over 11,400 detainees, including many children and journalists. The Embassy condemned the ongoing repression of Palestinian voices and the targeted killings of journalists, asserting that inaction from the international community amounts to complicity in these human rights violations.

In response to the escalating crisis, the Embassy is urging the international community to take immediate action, provide humanitarian aid, and work towards a cessation of hostilities. Their message highlights the profound human cost of the conflict, particularly for the most vulnerable population—children.