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The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Austrian lawyer Volker Türk, has strongly condemned the “disgusting spectacle” organised by the Hamas terrorist group during the transfer of the remains of four Israeli hostages to representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross.
“Any transfer of bodies must be done with respect”
In his official statement, Volker Türk emphasised:
“According to international law, any transfer of remains must be carried out in accordance with the prohibition of cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment. This process should be organised with respect for the memory of the victims and their relatives.”
“Red Cross calls on Hamas to stop humiliating ceremonies
“The Red Cross also called on Hamas to refrain from humiliating acts during the transfer of bodies. In a statement, the organisation said:
“We must make it clear that any degrading treatment during a body transfer operation is completely unacceptable.”
However, Hamas ignored the calls and staged a demonstration ceremony with four coffins on stage.
Immediate reaction of the international community
Hamas’ actions caused a wave of outrage among international leaders and diplomats.
– The German Foreign Ministry called theincident an “unbearable sight”:
“The four coffins on display on the stage are an unbearable sight. The families of the hostages continue to be subjected to psychological terror by Hamas. Our thoughts are with them. We hope that they will soon be able to bury their loved ones with dignity.”
– Stephanie Hallett, the US Chargé d’Affaires in Israel, expressed her deep indignation at Hamas’ actions:
“This day was another reminder of the incredible cruelty of Hamas. Such treatment is unacceptable in the civilised world.”
The context of the events
The transfer of the bodies of the dead hostages took place as part of an agreement between Israel and Hamas mediated by Qatar and Egypt. However, the performance with the coffins provoked a sharp negative reaction, increasing tensions in diplomatic circles.
