Ashley Masakadza

Zimbabwe has urged Israel and Hamas to exercise maximum restraint on their conflict which has killed more than 1000 people, and injured thousands more.

In a statement,  the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade  said it is deeply concerned about the war which has led to the loss of lives in Israel and Gaza.

“The Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe is closely following the developments in the Middle East and is deeply concerned at the ongoing fighting between Hamas and the Israeli army which has left more than 1000 people dead while several others have been displaced or injured. Equally disturbing is the indiscriminate targeting of civilians especially women and children and the disproportionate use of force.

“The Government of Zimbabwe urges all sides to exercise maximum restraint and allow humanitarian workers access to the injured and displaced. We convey our deepest condolences to all those who lost their loved ones and wish the injured speedy recovery.

“These tragic developments, once again highlight the urgent need for the revival of the political process aimed at finding a durable and just solution which respects the right to self-determination of the Palestinian people as envisaged under the United Nations Resolutions,” reads the statement.

The three largest U.S. airlines and a growing number of international carriers have suspended service to Israel, which has declared a state of war following Saturday’s surprise attack by Hamas that has left more than 1,200 dead according to Forbes.

The United States of America’s President Joe Biden said 11 Americans have been killed and an unknown number has been abducted by Hamas militants, during the attacks in Israel.

“Nothing justifies the killing, maiming or abducting of children – grave rights violations which UNICEF wholeheartedly condemns.” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.

More reports are still coming about the attacks.