February 2025

German Chancellor Condemns Trump’s Gaza Plan as “Scandalous” and Inconsistent with International Law

Berlin, Germany — German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has strongly condemned former U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal to transform the Gaza Strip into a luxury tourist destination, labeling it a “scandal” and its terminology as “absolutely outrageous.” Speaking during a press conference, Scholz emphasized that any plan involving the forced displacement of Gazans is both unacceptable and in violation of international law. Trump’s ambitious yet contentious blueprint envisions purchasing and rebuilding the Gaza Strip, aiming to rebrand it as the “Riviera of the Middle East.” The plan, however, hinges on relocating its current residents to other areas, sparking global outrage and criticism from human rights organizations and international bodies. A Violation of Human Rights Principles Scholz underscored the gravity of the situation by highlighting the ethical and legal implications of such an initiative. “Displacing entire populations against their will is not only morally reprehensible but also inconsistent with international law,” he stated firmly. His remarks echoed concerns raised by prominent human rights groups, including Human Rights Watch, which described the proposed forced displacement as a “crime against humanity” and tantamount to “ethnic cleansing.” The plan has ignited fierce debate over its potential consequences, with critics warning that it could lead to the systematic removal of Palestinian residents and alter the demographic makeup of the region—a move widely viewed as contrary to fundamental principles of human rights and international norms. Widespread Criticism from Global Leaders and Organizations Human Rights Watch was among the first to denounce the proposal, asserting that the forced relocation of civilians constitutes a grave violation of international humanitarian law. Other global entities, including the United Nations, have expressed alarm at the prospect of implementing policies that prioritize development projects over the rights and dignity of existing communities. While supporters of the plan argue that revitalizing Gaza’s infrastructure could bring economic benefits to the region, opponents counter that these gains cannot justify the erosion of basic human rights or the uprooting of families from their homes. Controversy Surrounding the Proposal This divisive proposal has further strained relations between proponents of peaceful conflict resolution and those advocating for drastic measures. Critics warn that such plans risk exacerbating tensions in an already volatile region, potentially undermining efforts to achieve lasting peace between Israel and Palestine. Chancellor Scholz’s stance reflects Germany’s commitment to upholding international law and protecting the rights of vulnerable populations. As one of Europe’s leading voices on global affairs, his condemnation carries significant weight and may influence how other nations respond to similar proposals in the future. As discussions around the future of Gaza continue, the world watches closely to see whether diplomacy and respect for human rights will prevail—or if more radical ideas will take center stage. For now, Scholz’s unequivocal rejection of Trump’s plan serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prioritizing justice and compassion in addressing complex geopolitical challenges.

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Palestinian Seminar Condemns Displacement Plans and Calls for UNRWA Support

Brussels – A seminar organized by the European Palestinians Initiative for National Action condemned Israeli displacement plans and warned against the closure of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). Titled “The Duty of European Palestinians towards the Conspiracy of Displacement and Liquidation of UNRWA,” the event brought together specialists in Palestinian affairs to discuss strategies to counteract these threats. Displacement Plans Targeting Gaza Participants at the seminar expressed grave concern over recent proposals to displace residents of the Gaza Strip, particularly those advocated by U.S. President Donald Trump. Hassan Khreisheh, Deputy Speaker of the Palestinian Legislative Council, highlighted the steadfastness of Gaza’s population since October 7, 2023, despite Israeli attempts to undermine Palestinian resistance. While acknowledging Israel’s failure to achieve its declared goals, Khreisheh noted the devastating impact on infrastructure and civilian lives. Khreisheh warned of the seriousness of statements made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his recent meeting with Trump, particularly regarding the displacement of Gaza residents and increased American control over the Strip. He emphasized that the occupation’s hidden agenda includes compensating for failures in Gaza through intensified attacks in the West Bank, where refugee camps like Jenin are being targeted under the threat of weapons. Targeting UNRWA: A Strategic Israeli Plan Ali Huwaidi, head of the 302 Committee for the Defense of Palestinian Refugee Rights, explained that targeting UNRWA is a key component of Israel’s broader strategy to erase the effects of the 1948 Nakba and cancel international recognition of the Palestinian refugee issue. Last month, Israel implemented a decision requiring the closure of UNRWA’s main office in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood of Jerusalem, jeopardizing its operations across Palestinian territories and neighboring countries. Huwaidi outlined four main axes of Israeli targeting of UNRWA: Strategies to Counteract Israeli Plans To confront these challenges, participants proposed several measures: Global Solidarity Needed The seminar concluded with a call for global solidarity in defending UNRWA and opposing displacement plans. Participants stressed the need to safeguard the rights of Palestinian refugees and preserve their identity and aspirations. As the struggle continues, the international community must remain committed to upholding justice, dignity, and human rights for all Palestinians.

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European Commission Condemns U.S. Sanctions on International Criminal Court

Brussels – The European Commission has voiced strong concerns over the United States’ decision to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC), warning that such measures could undermine global accountability efforts and threaten the court’s ability to pursue justice for the world’s most serious crimes. In a statement issued on Friday, Anwar Al-Anoni, the European Commission’s spokesman for foreign affairs, emphasized the ICC’s critical role in promoting international criminal justice and combating impunity. “The International Criminal Court is of great importance in supporting international criminal justice and ensuring accountability for atrocities committed worldwide,” Al-Anoni said. Regret Over U.S. Executive Order The European Union expressed its regret regarding the U.S. executive order signed by President Donald Trump, which authorizes sanctions against ICC officials and those cooperating with the court. These sanctions include travel bans and asset freezes targeting individuals involved in ICC investigations, particularly those related to alleged war crimes in Afghanistan and potential crimes in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Al-Anoni stressed that the European Union stands firmly behind the ICC and the principles enshrined in the Rome Statute, which established the court as a cornerstone of international justice. He warned that the U.S. executive order poses a “serious challenge” to the ICC’s work, potentially disrupting ongoing investigations and proceedings. Threat to Global Accountability The spokesman highlighted the broader implications of the U.S. decision, noting that it could jeopardize years of progress in fostering accountability for grave human rights violations globally. “This decision could affect years of efforts to ensure accountability around the world,” Al-Anoni stated, underscoring the ICC’s role in addressing genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. EU Response The European Commission announced that it will closely monitor the effects of the U.S. executive order and evaluate possible responses. While reaffirming its unwavering support for the ICC, the EU indicated it may consider taking additional steps to safeguard the court’s independence and effectiveness. “The European Union remains committed to defending multilateralism and upholding the rule of law at the international level,” Al-Anoni concluded. “We urge all parties to respect the integrity and impartiality of the ICC, which plays an indispensable role in advancing justice and peace.” Background:The controversy surrounding the ICC intensified after the court authorized investigations into alleged war crimes committed by U.S. military and intelligence personnel in Afghanistan, as well as potential crimes involving Israeli actions in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. In response, the Trump administration imposed sanctions aimed at curtailing the court’s activities, sparking widespread criticism from allies and international partners. As tensions persist, the European Union’s stance serves as a vital counterbalance, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a robust and independent international justice system.

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Norway Condemns Israeli Calls for Palestinian Displacement as Violation of International Law

Oslo – Norway has firmly rejected Israeli statements advocating for the forced displacement of Palestinians from their lands, asserting that such actions are inconsistent with international law. The condemnation came on Friday following remarks by Israel Katz, Israel’s Minister of the Occupation Army, who suggested that countries critical of Israel should accept Palestinians from Gaza. In a statement to the Anadolu Agency, Andreas Kravik, Deputy Foreign Minister of Norway, reiterated Norway’s steadfast support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the establishment of their own state. “Palestine is the homeland of the Palestinian people,” Kravik emphasized, underscoring the fundamental rights of Palestinians under international law. Right to Self-Determination Kravik highlighted that the Palestinian people possess an inherent and independent right to self-determination and statehood—a principle enshrined in the 1947 United Nations Partition Plan. This plan laid the groundwork for Norway and other nations recognizing Israel in 1949, while simultaneously affirming the rights of Palestinians to establish their own sovereign state. The Norwegian deputy minister noted that this position aligns with numerous United Nations resolutions and rulings by the International Court of Justice, which collectively recognize the legitimacy of Palestinian statehood and condemn violations of their territorial integrity. Violation of International Law Kravik categorically stated that forcibly relocating Palestinians from occupied territories to third countries constitutes a breach of international law. Such measures not only undermine the principles of justice and human rights but also contravene the Fourth Geneva Convention, which explicitly prohibits the forced transfer of populations from occupied territories. The Norwegian government’s stance reflects broader regional and international opposition to recent proposals for displacing Palestinians from Gaza. On Tuesday, during a press conference at the White House, U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at plans to seize the Gaza Strip and displace its residents—a suggestion that sparked widespread condemnation globally. Global Rejection of Forced Displacement The call for Palestinian displacement has been met with significant backlash, with many nations and international bodies condemning it as a violation of basic human rights and international legal norms. Norway’s response underscores the importance of upholding these principles and rejecting policies that threaten the dignity and security of vulnerable populations. As tensions persist in the region, Norway’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause serves as a reminder of the global community’s responsibility to advocate for peace, justice, and respect for international law.

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Spain Rejects Israeli Proposal to Relocate Gazans, Affirms Gaza as Part of Future Palestinian State

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares has firmly rejected a controversial proposal by an Israeli minister to relocate displaced Palestinians from Gaza to Spain, emphasizing that Gaza belongs to its people and must remain an integral part of a future Palestinian state. In a recent interview with a Spanish radio station, Albares stated, “No one should enter into a discussion about where the Palestinians should go, especially the people of Gaza. The people of Gaza themselves have closed this discussion.” He reiterated Spain’s stance that Gaza is an inseparable part of the future State of Palestine, a position shared by approximately 150 countries worldwide, including Spain. The remarks came in response to a suggestion by an Israeli occupation minister that Spain could receive displaced Gazans if they were forced to leave their homeland. Albares dismissed the idea, asserting that the international community must focus on achieving a just and lasting solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict rather than displacing Palestinians from their land. The debate over Gaza’s future has intensified in recent weeks, particularly after former U.S. President Donald Trump reignited controversy by calling for Egypt and Jordan to receive displaced Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. Trump, who made the comments last Tuesday, argued that Palestinians “have no alternative but to leave Gaza” and proposed an economic development plan for the region under U.S. control. Trump claimed that his proposal to take control of Gaza and implement an economic plan aimed at creating jobs and housing had received “wide support and praise from various levels of leadership.” However, his comments have drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations and international leaders. Amnesty International condemned Trump’s proposal as “outrageous” and a “flagrant violation of international law,” warning that such plans risk further destabilizing the region and undermining Palestinian rights. The Gaza Strip has endured over 15 months of intense conflict, described by many as a genocidal war, following military operations by the Israeli occupation army. The ongoing violence has resulted in widespread displacement, destruction, and humanitarian crises, prompting global calls for a ceasefire and a sustainable political solution. Spain’s firm rejection of the relocation proposal underscores its commitment to a two-state solution and the rights of Palestinians to self-determination. Albares’ statements reflect a broader international consensus that Gaza must remain part of a future Palestinian state, rather than being subject to external control or population displacement. As the international community grapples with the ongoing crisis in Gaza, Spain’s position highlights the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to address the root causes of the conflict and ensure a just and peaceful resolution for all parties involved.

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79 Countries Affirm Support for International Criminal Court Amid U.S. Sanctions

On Friday, 79 countries that are signatories to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a joint statement reaffirming their unwavering support for the court’s independence, integrity, and impartiality. The declaration came in response to recent sanctions imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump against ICC officials and those cooperating with the court. A Pillar of International Justice The statement emphasized the ICC’s role as a cornerstone of the international justice system, tasked with ensuring accountability for the most serious international crimes and delivering justice to victims. It highlighted the court’s mandate under the Rome Statute to investigate and prosecute genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. However, the court is currently facing unprecedented challenges, including punitive measures taken against its officials and employees. These actions, according to the statement, “increase the risk of impunity for the most serious crimes and threaten to undermine the rule of international law, which is essential to strengthening global order and security.” Impact of Sanctions The joint statement condemned the sanctions imposed by the United States, warning that such measures could jeopardize the confidentiality of sensitive information and endanger the safety of stakeholders, including victims, witnesses, and court officials. Many of these individuals are citizens of the signatory states, making the issue a shared concern. Furthermore, the sanctions may force the ICC to close its field offices, undermining ongoing investigations and potentially halting critical cases. This would not only hinder justice but also erode trust in the international legal framework. Global Commitment to Accountability The statement underscored the importance of strengthening the ICC’s work, asserting that it serves the collective interest of promoting accountability and upholding the rule of law. It read: “As strong supporters of the Court, we deplore any attempts to undermine its independence, integrity, and impartiality. We are committed to ensuring the continuity of the Court’s work so that it can continue to perform its duties effectively and independently.” Permanent Representative of Palestine to the United Nations, Minister Riyad Mansour, welcomed the statement, praising its emphasis on preserving the ICC’s neutrality and opposing interference in its affairs. He thanked all the countries that initiated and signed the declaration, highlighting their solidarity in defending the principles of international justice. U.S. Executive Order Sparks Global Backlash On Thursday, President Trump signed an executive order imposing sanctions on ICC officials for allegedly conducting “unlawful acts against the United States and Israel.” The order bans ICC personnel and their relatives from entering the U.S., freezes their assets within the country, and restricts their ability to operate globally. This move followed the ICC’s decision to open an investigation into alleged war crimes committed in Afghanistan, including potential crimes by U.S. military and intelligence personnel. Additionally, the court has been considering an investigation into Israeli actions in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, prompting further tensions. Signatories Stand Firm The 79 countries that signed the joint statement include Afghanistan, Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cape Verde, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Comoros, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Gabon, Gambia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Honduras, Iceland, Ireland, Jordan, Latvia, Lesotho, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Maldives, Malta, Mexico, Mongolia, Montenegro, Namibia, Netherlands, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Moldova, Romania, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Palestine, Sweden, Switzerland, East Timor, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Uganda, United Kingdom, Uruguay, and Vanuatu. Their unified stance sends a clear message: the ICC must remain free from political interference to fulfill its vital mission of holding perpetrators of grave crimes accountable. Conclusion:The global backlash against the U.S. sanctions reflects widespread commitment to the principles of international justice enshrined in the Rome Statute. As the world grapples with rising tensions, the ICC remains a crucial mechanism for addressing atrocities and fostering accountability. The joint statement serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility to uphold the rule of law and protect human rights on a global scale.

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Irish Prime Minister Calls for Continued Ceasefire and Rejects Palestinian Deportation

In a recent statement, Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris strongly emphasized the necessity of enhancing international efforts to sustain the ceasefire in Gaza and move forward with the second phase of the peace agreement. Harris highlighted that lasting peace in the region is vital for the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes, allowing them to rebuild their lives and communities. “We need the second phase of the ceasefire to ensure that the people of Gaza can receive the assistance they require and continue their lives with dignity,” Harris stated. He stressed the importance of providing the necessary means for residents to return and restore their homes after the devastation of ongoing conflict. Harris also reiterated Ireland’s firm stance against the deportation of Palestinians, which has been suggested in certain proposals. He firmly rejected the notion of forcibly resettling Palestinians in other countries, stating that such measures are incompatible with achieving a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue. These positions were expressed in the context of Ireland’s commitment to the two-state solution as the only viable route to lasting peace in the region. The Irish Prime Minister’s remarks reflect broader international concern regarding attempts to forcibly displace Palestinians, a practice widely condemned by countries and organizations worldwide. Many have emphasized that such actions not only violate international law but also jeopardize efforts to bring about a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As global calls for stability and justice intensify, Ireland continues to advocate for international adherence to law and peace-building measures, supporting the return of Palestinian families to their homes as part of a lasting solution for the region.

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Switzerland opens an investigation against Israeli soldier

Swiss authorities have initiated a criminal investigation into an Israeli soldier currently present in Switzerland, following a formal complaint filed by the Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF). The HRF alleges that the soldier is implicated in war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Gaza. The HRF, dedicated to addressing and challenging impunity for war crimes and human rights violations in the Palestinian territories, has been actively pursuing legal actions against individuals they identify as perpetrators. In this instance, their complaint has prompted Swiss authorities to examine the allegations against the Israeli soldier in question. This development is part of a broader international effort to hold individuals accountable for alleged war crimes in Gaza. The HRF has been instrumental in filing complaints in various jurisdictions, aiming to bring attention to and seek justice for such violations. The outcome of the Swiss investigation remains to be seen, but it underscores the increasing global scrutiny and legal challenges faced by individuals accused of committing war crimes in conflict zones.

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Belgium Condemns Any Attempts to Displace Residents of Gaza and the West Bank

Belgium’s Foreign Ministry has strongly condemned any efforts to forcibly displace Palestinians from the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, calling such actions a serious violation of international humanitarian law. In an official statement, the ministry emphasized that stability in the Middle East requires full respect for international law and the implementation of the two-state solution. The condemnation comes amid growing international rejection of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to take control of Gaza and expel its Palestinian residents. The controversial suggestion has been met with widespread criticism from European nations, including Germany, France, Britain, Spain, Poland, Slovenia, Scotland, and Belgium, all of whom have stressed that such actions would violate international law and further destabilize the region. These European positions reaffirm the international community’s commitment to the two-state solution as the only viable path to achieving lasting peace in the Middle East.

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German Foreign Minister: Gaza Belongs to Palestinians, Forced Expulsion Unacceptable

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has stated that Gaza, like the West Bank and East Jerusalem, belongs to the Palestinians and that any attempt to expel them from the territory is unacceptable and violates international law. She warned that such measures would lead to further suffering and hatred. Baerbock’s remarks came in response to a proposal by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested taking control of Gaza and expelling Palestinians from the enclave. The proposal has been met with widespread international condemnation. The German foreign minister emphasized that any resolution to the situation in Gaza must involve direct consultation with the Palestinians, stressing that true security can only be achieved through real peace. Her comments align with a broader international rejection of any forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza. Numerous governments and international organizations have warned that such actions would constitute a breach of international law and undermine efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.

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