The UN Special Advisor on the Prevention of Genocide, Alice Wairimu Nderitu, has issued a stark warning about the potential spillover effects of the ongoing conflict in Gaza to neighboring areas. Expressing concerns over the possibility of atrocities spreading in the region, Nderitu emphasized the urgent need for de-escalation and cautioned against incitement and inflammatory rhetoric, which could exacerbate tensions and undermine peace efforts.
Nderitu’s statement echoes earlier warnings from the UN Secretary-General, who highlighted the likelihood of violence escalating beyond Gaza between Israel and the Hamas militant group, further intensifying tensions in the region. Stressing the responsibility of political leaders to refrain from using hateful narratives, Nderitu called for the implementation of measures to defuse ongoing tensions and pave the way for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Critics had raised concerns about Nderitu’s silence on the Gaza conflict, where millions have been displaced, and thousands killed since the war erupted on October 7. The conflict began after Hamas militants breached the fence into Israel, resulting in casualties and hostages. Israel has faced allegations of excessive force, leading to international scrutiny, including a recent order from the International Court of Justice to prevent acts that could amount to genocide.
Nderitu emphasized the need to protect civilians on both sides of the conflict, emphasizing their fundamental rights and humanitarian needs. She called for adherence to international law to ensure the safety of civilians and civilian infrastructure, along with the safe return of hostages held by Hamas. Additionally, Nderitu highlighted the importance of investigating reports of sexual violence committed during the conflict and its aftermath.
The complexity of the Gaza conflict has been further compounded by Israel’s plans to target Rafah, a border town adjacent to Egypt, raising concerns among Gulf countries and prompting calls for a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine. As diplomatic tensions mount, the international community faces mounting pressure to address the root causes of the conflict and work towards a lasting peace settlement in the region.