Russia Condemns Israeli Bombing of Gaza as Violation of International Law

Russia's foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, has criticized Israel's bombing of Gaza, stating that it violates international humanitarian law and will lead to a long-lasting crisis. Lavrov condemned terrorism but disagreed with responding to it by indiscriminately using force against targets where civilians are present. He warned that the destruction of Gaza and the expulsion of its inhabitants would create a catastrophe for decades or even centuries. Russia has called for an immediate ceasefire in the region and recently hosted senior leaders of Hamas in Moscow, which has angered Israeli officials.