29 June 2015, Geneva
In a statement delivered at the 29th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council at an interactive dialogue with the Independent Commission of Inquiry on the 2014 Gaza Conflict, the Maldives called on Israel to start respecting international human rights and humanitarian law.
The Maldives also noted with deep regret the complete non-cooperation of Israel with the Commission, where the Israeli Government did not allow the Commission to enter the territories. The Maldives condemned the well planned attacks, which were carried out during very specific times, such as ‘iftar’ and ‘suhoor’ – the Ramadan meal times, which maximised the number of civilian casualties.
In the statement, the Maldives also called on the International Criminal Court to investigate urgently and afford redress to the people of Palestine and called on prompt action to be taken against Israel and its leaders. The Maldives also called on Israel to respect the inalienable rights of the people of Palestine to self-determination and statehood.
The United Nations Human Rights Council, considers the plight and situation of human rights of the people of the Occupied Palestinian Territories, under Item 7, which faces resistance from the United States of America and some Western States. The Maldives has on every occasion reiterated its strong position that Agenda Item 7 should continue, as long as the occupation continues.
ENDS