Lavrov Warns of Impending Regional War Over Gaza Conflict
In a recent statement during the strategic dialogue meeting between Gulf states and Russia held in Riyadh, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed grave concerns regarding the escalating situation in Gaza. He accused Israel of imposing impossible conditions on mediators, jeopardizing peace initiatives aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict. Lavrov emphasized that the Middle East is on the verge of a major regional war, a situation that demands urgent attention and action from the international community.
The Role of International Community in Gaza
Lavrov highlighted the failure of the international community to halt the violence in Gaza, noting that the current level of aggression against Palestinians is unprecedented in the history of Arab-Israeli conflicts. He stated that the inability to stop the fighting has led to a significant deterioration in the military-political landscape of the region, stretching from Lebanon to the Red Sea. Furthermore, he indicated that the confrontation between Israel and Iran has reached a new and dangerous level, further complicating the situation.
Path to Peace: Establishing a Palestinian State
The Russian Foreign Minister reiterated the necessity of establishing a Palestinian state as a foundational step towards achieving comprehensive peace in the Middle East. He criticized the United States for obstructing international efforts to cease fire in Gaza and called for collaborative efforts between Russia and the Gulf Cooperation Council to reach a ceasefire and ensure the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on international legitimacy. Lavrov's remarks underscore the critical need for a sustainable solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict to ensure stability in the region.
- The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in a staggering humanitarian crisis, with reports indicating over 135,000 Palestinian casualties, including many women and children, since the onset of hostilities on October 7. The destruction and famine have exacerbated the situation, leading to calls for immediate international intervention. Lavrov's comments reflect a growing concern among global leaders regarding the implications of the conflict not only for the Middle East but for international peace and security as well.