The Elders, an NGO founded by Nelson Mandela and composed of former statespeople, prominent diplomats, and peace advocates, has denounced an ongoing “genocide” in the Gaza Strip, accusing Israel of inducing severe famine among the Palestinian population. “Today we express our horror and indignation at Israel’s deliberate obstruction of life-saving humanitarian aid into Gaza,” stated the London-based organization.
The powerful group’s condemnation followed a visit to the Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza by two key Elders: Helen Clark, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, and Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland and former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. “What we have seen and heard underscores our personal conviction that there is not only a man-made famine underway in Gaza, but a genocide,” they declared. They added: “Many new mothers are unable to adequately feed themselves or their newborns, and the healthcare system is collapsing. All of this threatens the very survival of an entire generation.”
The NGO delegation reported witnessing “evidence of food and medical aid being denied entry” and hearing “testimonies of Palestinian civilians, including children, being killed while trying to obtain aid inside Gaza.”