Israeli forces have killed 490 Palestinian children in the Gaza Strip in the past 20 days, the Hamas-run Gaza Press Office reported.
It is "one of the most horrific crimes against humanity in modern times," a statement said, accusing Israel of continuing to commit brutal massacres against defenseless civilians.
"Over the past twenty days, Israel has committed a shocking act of genocide against children, with 490 children martyred in a series of barbaric attacks. This brings the total number of martyrs during this period to 1,350," the statement concluded.
Meanwhile, France has condemned the continued Israeli attacks on Gaza and ceasefire violations and calls for the immediate and unconditional release of Israeli hostages and for ceasefire negotiations to resume without delay.
"We stand against the forcible transfer of any people from their land, including Gaza, as well as the annexation of the Gaza Strip or the West Bank," French President Emmanuel Macron said at a joint press conference with his Egyptian counterpart in Cairo.
"Such moves are a complete violation of international law and pose a direct threat to the entire security of the region - including Israel."
Macron said France supports a plan proposed by Arab countries on March 4 for the reconstruction of Gaza.
"It is a realistic support for Gaza and will pave the way for a new administration in the Gaza Strip. Hamas will not be part of any Gaza rule and Israel will not be part of any Gaza rule."
(A2 Televizion)
