Former US President Barack Obama warned that any actions by the Israeli Occupation that ignore the human cost of the war against Hamas “could ultimately backfire,” as reported by Politico.

In a statement — posted on the online site Mediumand titled “Thoughts on Israel and Gaza” — Obama argued that moves such as cutting off food and water to Gaza could “harden Palestinian attitudes for generations,” weaken international support for the Israeli Occupation and “undermine efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region.”

Obama reiterated the right of the Israeli Occupation to defend itself against “wanton violence.” 

He also called the Israeli Occupation’s decision to allow relief trucks into Gaza “an encouraging step.”

However, he argued that more needs to be done by the international community to provide critical aid.