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Dep Speaker tells UN to condemn Israel invasion in Gaza

Mar 26, 2024, 11:18 AM | Article By: Sulayman Waan

Hon. Seedy S.K. Njie, deputy speaker of the National Assembly has called on the United Nations Security Council to condemn the ongoing Israel invasion in Gaza.

“My delegation and I call on the UN Security Council to act positively and pass a unified resolution to condemn Israel and end the war,” he told Internationals Deputies at the 148th Assembly of the Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva, Switzerland on 23 March.

He said it is imperative to acknowledge that the root causes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict are entrenched in decades of forceful occupation, displacement, and denial of basic fundamental rights to the Palestinian people.

 “These operations have resulted in the loss of innocent lives, widespread destruction to properties, and profound humanitarian suffering. We echo the calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and across Palestine to prevent further bloodshed and alleviate the dire humanitarian situation facing the Palestinian people,” he said.

He said the Israeli–Palestinian conflict underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts towards peace and reconciliation, adding the government and people of The Gambia, under President Barrow, stand in solidarity with the international community in condemning all forms of violence and aggression, particularly the recent Israeli military operations in Gaza.

“The Government of The Gambia reaffirms its commitment to upholding international law, human rights, and UN General Assembly resolutions as the foundation for any meaningful and lasting resolution to this enduring conflict,” Hon. Njie noted.

 He emphasised the importance of accountability and justice for all parties responsible for violations of international law and human rights.

“The government of The Gambia calls for thorough and impartial investigations into alleged atrocities committed during the recent military operations in Gaza, with a view to holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring justice for the victims,” he further stated.

According to Hon. Njie, The Gambia has reiterated its unwavering support for the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people to establish an independent and sovereign State of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital.

“The recent submission of The Gambia to the International Court of Justice serves as a powerful testament to our commitment, as a nation, to upholding international law and promoting peace and justice. In that submission, The Gambia emphasised to the ICJ that Israel's occupation of Palestine is illegal and must be ended immediately. This underscores the importance of addressing ongoing conflicts through international legal channels and collective action,” he affirmed.

“We urge the international community to redouble its efforts to facilitate a comprehensive and inclusive peace process that addresses the root causes of the conflict, with a view of ensuring a just and durable solution.”