Nyong'o urges AU to cut diplomatic ties with Israel over Gaza bombing

Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyon'go. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong'o has appealed to the African Union (AU) to sever diplomatic ties with Israel over the ongoing bombing of Gaza.

According to international reports, the war has led to the loss of several lives, the displacement of Palestinians, and a huge trail of destruction.

In a statement on Tuesday, November 14, Nyong'o described the attacks as unfortunate and claimed the region cannot afford to stay silent.

"Progressive forces in Africa led by the African Union cannot stand by and let this happen," he said.

He challenged the global body to rally its members to cut diplomatic links with Israel and alleged that Israel was planning to escalate its invasion of Gaza.

According to the Pan-Africanist, the war is having a ripple effect across the globe. He argued that its continuation would only spell further doom on a humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the West Bank.

It remains to be seen if AU will consider his calls. The union has criticised the continued bombing of Gaza in recent days but has not directed its members to cut diplomatic ties.

Last week, AU Commission chairperson Moussa Faki condemned the attack on a Gaza hospital by Israeli forces and claimed there is a need for the International community to act.

"There are no words to fully express our condemnation of Israel's bombing of a Gaza hospital, killing hundreds of people. Targeting a hospital, considered a safe haven under International Humanitarian Law, is a war crime. The International Community must act now," said Faki.

Djibouti's Health Minister Ahmed Robleh Abdilleh said the bombing of a hospital and using prohibited phosphorous ammunition is genocide.

Kenya, on the other hand, appears to have adopted ambiguity as a strategy.

Speaking in Saudi Arabia at the weekend during a meeting convened by Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed Salman, President William Ruto condemned what he described as terrorist attacks. He also claimed the country abhors illegal occupation.

Earlier in the month, the president claimed that Kenya stands in solidarity with Israel following the attacks.