Army spokesperson says countries accusing Israel of war crimes 'aren't democracies'

ISTANBUL (AA) - An Israeli military spokesperson on Monday said the countries accusing Israel of committing war crimes in Gaza are not democracies, and should not lecture Israel.

Asked to comment on the accusations by a host of countries, as well as protesters in Australia, Jonathan Conricus told ABC Radio Melbourne: "I do not know who these countries are. I don't think they are democracies, and I don't think they are in any position to lecture Israel about anything, definitely not anything related to humanitarian issues.

"People protesting against Israel are either uninformed, or filled with hatred towards Israel based on things that have nothing to do with what is happening in Gaza right now."

About cutting water supply to Gaza being a form of "collective punishment," Conricus said the issue was underreported by many of those who criticize Israel.

"Gaza supplied about 90% of its own water by pumping water from the aquifer, and we provided about 10%. We did indeed close that 10% or 9% because it goes to Hamas," he said, adding: "We should not be forced to provide sustenance to our very same enemy, which is trying to kill us."

The IDF spokesman stressed that the war will continue until Hamas is completely dismantled, and "can never ever pose a threat to any Israeli," or unless Hamas "surrenders unconditionally."

"At this stage of war, I can only reiterate that we are going to dismantle them (Hamas), reinstate security, and bring our people home," he added.

Israel has continued bombardment of the Gaza Strip since the Oct. 7 offensive by Hamas, and has hinted at launching a ground offensive soon.

A second convoy of relief trucks enter the Gaza Strip on Sunday, a day after 20 trucks entered the area, the first aid shipment since Israel imposed a complete siege. Both entered from Egypt through the Rafah crossing, the only way into Gaza not controlled by Israel.

At least 4,651 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza, while more than 1,400 people have been killed in Israel.

There is an urgent need of fuel, food and water in the besieged enclave, according to the UN agency for refugees.