Vietnam condemns violent attacks against civilians

Vietnam strongly condemns violent attacks against civilians, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said, commenting on tensions in the Middle East.

"We call on all parties to immediately cease fire, end the use of force, and respect international humanitarian law," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang said on October 18 in response to the escalating tensions in the Middle East, according to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The spokesperson called on the parties involved in the conflict to resume negotiations and resolve disagreements through peaceful means, on the basis of international law and relevant United Nations resolutions, in order to achieve a fair, satisfactory and long-term solution for the Middle East peace process, ensuring the lives, security and safety of the people.

Spokesperson of the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang. Photo: BNG

" Vietnam supports and is ready to join the international community's joint efforts to promote dialogue and provide humanitarian assistance to people in conflict areas, contributing to ensuring peace, security and stability in the region and the world," the Foreign Ministry spokesperson added.

Hamas raided Israeli territory on October 7, killing and kidnapping many civilians. Israel then responded with a series of airstrikes on the Gaza Strip.

Tensions rose overnight on October 17 when the Al-Ahli hospital in the central Gaza Strip was attacked. Hamas health authorities initially said at least 500 people had been killed. They revised the number down to at least 471 on the evening of October 18. Hamas said another 314 people were wounded, with 28 in critical condition.

Hamas accused the Israeli army of "attacking the courtyard of Al-Ahli hospital" and called it a "war crime". Israel denied the accusation and said a rocket from the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) organization had an accident after launch and fell into the hospital courtyard, causing the tragedy.

On October 15, the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommended that citizens avoid traveling to Israel if not necessary, and that those living in Israel should return home or go to a third country.

Vnexpress.net