Suhakam condemns human rights violations in Gaza, supports free Palestine movement

KUCHING (Aug 4): The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) has urged the government to take a much firmer stand in Malaysia’s role in global efforts to condemn all manner of impunity against the tenets of human rights especially those affecting the plight of the Palestinian people.

It pledged to be always consistent in demonstrating solidarity with the Palestinian struggle for liberation.

The commission said it is deeply concerned about the recent escalation of violence, particularly the vile and wicked assassination of Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran Iran, a sovereign nation, by Israel prior to negotiations to end the genocide in Gaza.

“This brutality is a stark reminder of the urgent need for international intervention and accountability,” said Suhakam in a statement yesterday.

The statement was issued in support for the Free Palestine Rally organised by the Malaysian government at Axiata Arena Bukit Jalil in Kuala Lumpur today (Aug 4).

Suhakam said the rally represents a significant platform for highlighting the ongoing human rights violations in Palestine.

“The ongoing atrocities in Gaza, which have claimed the lives of over 40,000 innocent Palestinians, require thorough investigation and accountability under international law.

“Possible mechanisms for justice include prosecutions by the International Criminal Court (ICC), cases brought before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), and actions through various United Nations bodies,” said the commission.

Suhakam pledged its support for all efforts to ensure that those responsible for these grave crimes are held accountable.

“The Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols form the cornerstone of international humanitarian law, protecting civilians and those no longer participating in hostilities.

“Violations of these conventions, particularly in occupied territories like Gaza, must be addressed urgently. Malaysia, a signatory to the Geneva Convention, has a role in promoting and enforcing these humanitarian principles,” pointed out the commission.

According to Suhakam, the National Human Rights Institutions including Suhakam play a vital role in advocating for human rights and documenting violations.

The commission said it had consistently condemned the attacks on Palestinians and called for immediate humanitarian aid to Gaza.

“Suhakam supports South Africa’s initiative to bring genocide charges against Israel at the ICJ and remains committed to leveraging Malaysia’s diplomatic influence to promote peace and justice.

“Suhakam remains and continues to be actively engaged in regional and international forums to support the Palestinian cause,” added the commission.