Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon Condemns UN Official for Accusing Israel of Genocide
Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon has condemned UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher for making accusations of genocide against Israel in Gaza, calling the remarks politically motivated and a violation of UN neutrality. Danon accused Fletcher of making ‘utterly inappropriate and deeply irresponsible’ statements that ‘shattered any notion of neutrality.’
Fletcher’s remarks, delivered before the UN Security Council on Tuesday, claimed Israel was deliberately imposing inhumane conditions on Palestinian civilians, arguing that most of Gaza is either within Israeli-militarized zones or under displacement orders. He highlighted a lack of aid access, noting that aid trucks have not entered the Gaza Strip for 10 weeks, leading to hospitals being ‘overwhelmed’ and people facing ‘famine and starvation.’
Fletcher also criticized the ‘appalling violence’ increasing in the West Bank and condemned the killing of a pregnant Israeli woman, Tzeela Gez, who was shot while en route to the hospital to give birth. While her baby is in ‘serious but stable condition,’ the incident has sparked further tensions in the region.
Despite Fletcher’s statements, Danon pointed out the ‘desecration and subversion of a term with unique force and weight’ in Fletcher’s use of the word ‘genocide.’ He emphasized the need for evidence and restraint, asserting that Fletcher’s remarks ‘far worse’ were the result of an alleged betrayal of trust by the UN official.
Fletcher’s spokesperson, Eri Kaneko, defended the accusations, stating, ‘Mr. Fletcher’s point is that the world must take decisive action to prevent genocide and ensure respect for international humanitarian law.’ Kaneko highlighted that Fletcher had ‘repeatedly and publicly spoken out against what he calls the horrendous Hamas-led attacks’ and called for the release of hostages.
As the tensions between the UN and Israel escalate, Danon concluded his response by asking Fletcher to reflect on his role in addressing the humanitarian crisis, including preventing the Oct. 7 attacks, accelerating hostage releases, and holding Hamas accountable.