Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation, Benjamin Dousa, expresses deep concern over the severe famine in parts of Gaza, describing the situation as 'apocalyptic'. He highlights the dire humanitarian crisis exacerbated by Israel's restrictions on aid entry, calling it a war crime. The Swedish government is pushing for increased pressure on Israel to allow humanitarian aid and is advocating for a freeze on the EU-Israel trade agreement.
Minister Dousa Describes Gaza Famine as Apocalyptic
Minister Dousa Describes Gaza Famine as Apocalyptic
Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation, Benjamin Dousa, says he is at a loss for words following the IPC's announcement of a fully developed famine in parts of Gaza.
"What is happening in Gaza now is apocalyptic," he states in a written comment.
He emphasizes that famine has only been confirmed in one other instance globally since 2017, and that was in Sudan.
In Gaza, the situation is different, he says. Trucks are waiting outside the gates with Swedish aid in the form of food packages, medicine, water, and more.
"But the Israeli government has severely restricted entry for a long period, and we are now witnessing the consequences. Using starvation of civilians as a method of warfare constitutes a war crime," says Dousa.
The government wants to increase pressure on Israel to allow emergency aid and is pushing, among other things, to freeze the trade agreement between the EU and Israel.
"Unhindered humanitarian access and the entry of emergency aid must be ensured," says Dousa.