ROME: Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa has called for the opening of humanitarian corridors to deliver urgent aid for people in Gaza after Israel imposed a complete siege on the strip.
The king’s comments came during visit to Italy, where he discussed solutions to the Palestinian issue in a meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella, Bahrain’s news agency BNA reported.
He called for the need to work towards military de-escalation in Gaza, the release of prisoners and the protection of “all civilians,” and reaffirmed Bahrain’s full support to efforts aimed at achieving regional peace and security.
Convoys of trucks loaded with aid have been stuck at the Rafah crossing border as Egypt and the US resume talks with Israel on a humanitarian aid plan.
Israel cut off water, electricity and food as it intensified air strikes on Gaza following Hamas’ attack. The Israeli strikes have killed more than 2,800 Palestinians and injured almost 10,000 people.
King Hamad highlighted the need to facilitate urgent medical aid, food, water and electricity to the besieged people of Gaza amid international agencies warning of a humanitarian crisis due to the blockade.
He reiterated Bahrain’s support for the two-state solution, which, he said, would be achieved by granting Palestinians their legitimate rights and “finding a just solution to the Palestinian cause” that guarantees the right of Palestinians to establish their own independent state, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
King Hamad also met Pope Francis during his trip, where praised the pontiff’s support for stability, peace and protection of civilians, as well as his rejection of violence targeting civilians, according to BNA.
Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa and Pope Frances discussed the close ties between Bahrain and the Vatican. (BNA)
He also highlighted the importance of restoring stability in the region to attain development and prosperity goals for its peoples.
