In a significant development, the Kremlin has denounced Israel's airstrikes in Gaza, describing them as a violation of international humanitarian law. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed his concerns in an interview with Belarus's state news agency Belta, stating that such retaliation, even against Hamas terrorists, cannot justify the indiscriminate use of force that endangers the lives of innocent civilians and hostages.

Lavrov declared, "While we condemn terrorism, we categorically disagree that you can respond to terrorism by violating the norms of international humanitarian law, including indiscriminately using force against targets where civilians are known to be present, including hostages that have been taken." He further warned that if Gaza is destroyed and its two million inhabitants are expelled, it will result in a catastrophic situation lasting not just for decades but possibly for centuries.

The latest condemnation from the Kremlin marks their strongest stance against Israeli actions to date. Heightened tensions between Russia and Israel have been fueled by the recent visit of senior Hamas leaders to Moscow. The move has angered Israeli officials, who oppose any form of recognition or legitimization of the Palestinian militant group.

Bassem Naeem and Mousa Abu Marzouk, prominent figures within Hamas, were welcomed by Russian Foreign Ministry officials during their visit. The Hamas leaders were photographed alongside Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, Putin's special envoy in the Middle East. Notably, Bogdanov also held a meeting with Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Ali Bagheri Kani, on the same day.

The backdrop to these developments lies in the October 7 raid carried out by Hamas terrorists in Israel, resulting in the loss of over 1,400 Israeli lives, mostly civilians. Additionally, Hamas took more than 200 hostages during the attack, further escalating tensions in the region.

In response, Israel has launched a series of airstrikes targeting Hamas and its infrastructure in Gaza. According to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, the bombardment has led to the deaths of 7,326 Palestinians as of Friday. The situation continues to escalate, with no immediate resolution in sight.

The condemnation by the Kremlin adds to the growing international pressure on Israel, urging them to exercise restraint and consider alternative approaches rather than resorting to mass military actions. The ongoing crisis in Gaza will undoubtedly have long-term consequences, impacting the lives of countless Palestinians and further straining the already tense relations between Israel and Russia.

As the situation unfolds, the international community continues to grapple with finding a diplomatic solution that addresses the concerns of both sides, aims to protect innocent lives, and ensures stability and peace in the region.