Brazilian first lady urges cease-fire in Gaza, opening humanitarian aid corridor

By Tugba Altun and Busranur Koca

ISTANBUL (AA) – Brazilian first lady Rosangela da Silva Wednesday urged an immediate cease-fire in Gaza and opening a humanitarian aid corridor.

The First Lady sent a video message to the "One Heart for Palestine" meeting of first ladies in the Turkish metropolis of Istanbul.

Rosangela da Silva said that it is "unacceptable" to be still unable to protect people in the 21st century.

"There is an urgent need for a cease-fire and the opening of a humanitarian aid corridor for the entry of medicine and food. What is even more urgent is to end this conflict," she added.

She said, "dialogue must prevail over weapons" and that even war and the right to defense have rules and limits.

Noting that they will continue their efforts to build peace, she called everyone for global peace.​​​​​​​

Turkish First Lady Emine Erdogan hosted the summit "One Heart for Palestine" with other first spouses from around the world in Istanbul as part of Ankara's efforts to end the ongoing Israeli war on Gaza.

As the Israeli assault on the Gaza Strip entered its 40th day, at least 11,320 Palestinians have been killed, including over 7,800 women and children, and more than 29,200 others have been injured, according to the latest figures from Palestinian authorities.

Thousands of buildings, including hospitals, mosques, and churches, have also been damaged or destroyed in Israel's relentless air and ground attacks on the besieged enclave since last month.

The Israeli death toll, meanwhile, is around 1,200, according to official figures.

* Writing by Gozde Bayar