Hamas has hailed the AU for condemning Israel’s offensive in Gaza after the bloc criticised Israel for violating international laws in its closing remarks following a two-day summit in Addis Ababa, Al Jazeera reports.

Hamas said it greatly appreciates the African countries’ “principled and courageous position” against Israel and its “monstrous” actions in Gaza.

The group said it considers its stance a natural response given its history of struggle against “colonialism and injustice”.

In its statement, the AU said it opposed the violation of international laws and “the targeting of civilians and infrastructure by Israel”.

“Israel is committing genocide against the Palestinian people and must be held accountable in international courts,” the statement read.