KUALA LUMPUR – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) today urged the international community to hold Israel accountable for its genocidal actions in Gaza in line with the case initiated by South Africa at the International Court of Justice.
Suhakam commissioner Tengku Mohamed Fauzi Tengku Abdul Hamid also called for the perpetrators to be held responsible for their inhuman transgressions.
“It is also hoped that the International Criminal Court prosecutor will conduct a just and fair investigation into the war crimes committed without interference,” he added.
Suhakam is deeply concerned about the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, which has been described as “beyond catastrophic” by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk during his recent visit to Malaysia, he added.
“The United States must move beyond rhetoric and ensure that Israel fully complies unconditionally with the recent UN Security Council Resolution 2735 (2024) on June 10.
“The US must not only exercise its veto to derail their recognition but also stop providing arms that are being used to kill women and children in Gaza.
“A ceasefire must be followed by a comprehensive reconstruction plan to restore Gaza and make it liveable again,” he said.
Tengku Mohamed Fauzi also expressed Suhakam’s full support for Türk’s call for accountability and an end to the siege on Gaza and the West Bank.
“We urge all parties involved to respect international humanitarian law and prioritise the protection of civilian lives.
“The humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the deteriorating situation in the West Bank demand immediate and coordinated action from the global community,” he said.
The commissioner said there was a need to immediately cease hostilities and engage in constructive dialogue to seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict, as it was imperative that international humanitarian law be upheld.
“All necessary measures must be taken to protect the lives and rights of civilians. The ongoing conflict has resulted in severe human suffering, widespread destruction and an urgent need for international intervention,” he said.
He added that the international community must take decisive action to dismantle oppressive structures and ensure equal rights for all.
“The ongoing occupation and discriminatory policies must end,” he said.
Suhakam also called on the international community and local authorities to help rebuild homes, hospitals, schools and infrastructure in Gaza to ensure access to basic necessities such as clean water, food and medical care.
“We urge the Malaysian government to continue its efforts in providing humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza and to work closely with international organisations and other nations to ensure the delivery of aid and support to those in need.
“Suhakam also encourages the global community to increase their efforts in addressing the root causes of the conflict and to support initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region.
“In such times, Suhakam stands in solidarity with the people of Gaza and reaffirms its commitment to promoting and protecting human rights for all.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and their families and call for urgent and coordinated action to alleviate the suffering of the affected population,” he said. – June 13, 2024