AMNESTY International has condemned the actions of Israel in response to protests taking place in Gaza against the opening of the US embassy in Jerusalem.
Israeli soldiers opened fire, killing at least 52 Palestinians and leaving another 1200 injured, after protesters set tyres ablaze and hurled firebombs and stones across the border.
It is the deadliest day in the region since the 2014 cross-border war. This prompted Philip Luther, research and advocacy director for the Middle East and North Africa at Amnesty International, to condemn Israel's "violation of international standards" and "what appear to be wilful killings constituting war crimes".
READ MORE: At least 52 dead and over 1000 injured during US embassy protests in Gaza
“This is another horrific example of the Israeli military using excessive force and live ammunition in a totally deplorable way," he said.
"This is a violation of international standards, in some instances committing what appear to be wilful killings constituting war crimes."
“Today’s footage from Gaza is extremely troubling, and as violence continues to spiral out of control, the Israeli authorities must immediately rein in the military to prevent the further loss of life and serious injuries.
“Only last month, Amnesty International called on the international community to stop the delivery of arms and military equipment to Israel," he added.
"The rising toll of deaths and injuries today only serves to highlight the urgent need for an arms embargo.
“While some protestors may have engaged in some form of violence, this still does not justify the use of live ammunition.
“Under international law, firearms can only be used to protect against an imminent threat of death or serious injury.”
The SNP joined in with the criticism, with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon calling for a two-state solution after the "heartbreaking loss of Palestinian lives in Gaza".
Yet again today, we are witnessing appalling violence and heartbreaking loss of Palestinian lives in Gaza. It is not acceptable. International law must be upheld and human rights must be respected...and a just and peaceful way forward based on a two state solution must be found.
— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) May 14, 2018
The party’s defence spokesman at Westminster, Stewart McDonald, labelled the actions of the Israeli army “appalling”, and called on UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson to speak up on the issue.
What is happening in Palestine right now is appalling. The U.K. Government really needs to find some backbone & make it clear to the government of Israel that its deadly actions against protesters will not be tolerated by the international community. Why is @BorisJohnson silent?
— Stewart McDonald MP (@StewartMcDonald) May 14, 2018
The protests were in response to the moving of the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. The move was a promise made during Donald Trump’s presidential campaign and enraged Palestinians, who see the city as a future capital.
A ceremony was held in Jeruselam to open the new embassy.
Gethins, the SNP’s foreign affairs spokesperson, hit out a Trump’s decision.
''By moving the embassy to Jerusalem Donald Trump has once again isolated the United States and damaged international efforts for a two-state solution,” he said.
''The ceremony in Jerusalem is in sharp contrast to the disturbing images we see from Gaza. It is imperative that we continue to work for peace in the region.''
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