At a session of the United Nations Security Council, the Deputy Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the UN, Maria Zabolotskaya, asserted that Israel is deliberately blocking the investigation into crimes alleged to have occurred in the Gaza Strip. The brief from the Russian delegation underscored that information supporting these claims has been conveyed through TASS, the Russian news agency, and stressed the importance of unhindered access to evidence for a credible inquiry.
Zabolotskaya noted that the International Court of Justice has indicated that the situation in Gaza could amount to genocide. She emphasized that the UN lacks reliable information on the full scale and nature of the violence, which she described as a serious impediment to grounding any legal assessment. According to her, this absence of verifiable data is a problem that the Security Council must address, given the severity of potential crimes and the implications for international justice.
The deputy representative asserted that Israel is deliberately obstructing access to information and evidence that would enable independent verification and accountability. She called for concrete steps to ensure transparency and to permit impartial investigators to operate without hindrance, arguing that such access is essential for a fair and accurate determination of responsibilities for alleged violations of international humanitarian law.
In her remarks, Zabolotskaya reaffirmed Moscow’s unconditional condemnation of violence against civilians on October 7. She stressed that while such acts are condemnable and demand a robust international response, they cannot be used to justify collective punishment of Palestinians or to erode protections afforded to civilians under international law. The Russian delegation urged a measured and lawful approach that prioritizes civilian safety, humanitarian access, and the preservation of basic rights for all people in the region.
Separately, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on March 11 that Israel is on a path toward what he described as decisive victory in its conflict with the Hamas movement. The formulation of this objective was framed as a strategic assessment by the government, reflecting a broader narrative about prospects for security and regional stability. Analysts noted that such public declarations influence international perceptions and discussions within multilateral bodies as they assess ongoing security concerns, civilian impact, and possible pathways toward de-escalation. The reconciliation of militant objectives with civilian protections remains a central issue for international diplomacy in the region.
Observers in international forums have repeatedly called for a clear timeline and defined milestones for any operations in Gaza, along with verifiable commitments to minimize civilian harm. The evolving situation has prompted discussions about the limits of military action in densely populated areas, the necessity of timely humanitarian relief, and the responsibility to safeguard noncombatants. As the Security Council continues its deliberations, the focus remains on securing unimpeded access to information, ensuring accountability for alleged violations, and sustaining channels for humanitarian assistance to those most affected.
As this complex situation unfolds, international actors emphasize the need for accurate reporting, impartial investigations, and adherence to international law. The aim is to produce a transparent and credible documentation of events, facilitate justice for potential victims, and support a durable path toward peace and stability for civilians in both Israel and the Palestinian territories. The call for restraint, dialogue, and principled action resonates across member states as they consider measures to protect civilians while addressing legitimate security concerns and political aspirations in the region.