By Harriet Tornguvan
Mr. Abdallah M. Abu Shawesh, the Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Nigeria, issued a statement on the 272nd day of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine.
The Ambassador criticized the international community for its inaction in the face of the televised and livestreamed atrocities, suggesting that this either reflects complicity or a lack of understanding of the global consequences. He warned that the continued violence against Palestinians forebodes a future where no one will be safe.
Describing the Current Situation in Gaza
"Bombardments can be heard from the north, center, and south of Gaza, making it a living hell," he said. "Trash is piling up everywhere, and people are forced to live under plastic sheeting in soaring temperatures."
ICC Jurisdiction and International Complicity
Karim Khan, prosecutor for the International Criminal Court (ICC), noted accusations that the ICC was established solely to prosecute Africans. He pointed out the United Kingdom's recent actions, specifically a "Friend of the Court" application on June 10 to challenge the ICC's jurisdiction, allegedly to protect Israeli leaders from arrest warrants. This, he argued, demonstrates the UK's complicity in the conflict.
Media Narratives and Definitions of War
Ambassador Abu Shawesh criticized media outlets that continue to refer to the situation as a "conflict," questioning what constitutes a war if not the current scale of violence. He speculated whether the use of more devastating weapons would finally prompt a change in terminology.
Humanitarian Impact and Casualties
He highlighted the staggering toll of Israel's actions, with over 37,925 Palestinians killed and 87,141 injured as of July 2nd. The Palestinian Ministry of Education reported that 8,572 students have been killed and 14,089 injured in Gaza, with additional casualties in the West Bank. The education sector has also suffered, with 497 teachers and administrators killed and 3,402 injured.
US Military Support to Israel
Ambassador Abu Shawesh condemned the United States for its role in the conflict, citing the transfer of substantial military aid to Israel, including thousands of bombs and missiles.
Detention and Treatment of Palestinians
The total number of detainees in the Occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, has reached 9,450, including 320 women, 650 children, and 84 journalists. He highlighted the severe treatment of detainees, including torture, assaults, and threats against their families. Notably, 18 detainees have died in Israeli prisons and military camps, with many others' fates unknown.
Call for International Intervention
Ambassador Abu Shawesh called on the United Nations Human Rights Council, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Convention to urgently intervene. He urged pressure on Israel to disclose the fate of detainees and allow visits from the Red Cross and legal representatives.
Statements by Israeli Officials
He concluded by condemning recent remarks by Israel's Minister of National Security, who advocated for the execution of Palestinian prisoners and proposed providing minimal sustenance until such laws are enacted.
Ambassador Abu Shawesh's statement underscores the severe humanitarian crisis and calls for immediate international action to address the ongoing atrocities and protect the rights and lives of Palestinians.
