The Maldives resolutely condemned the methodical violations of human rights perpetrated by the Israeli forces in the Palestinian Territories including that of East Jerusalem, which has been subjected to unlawful Israeli occupation.
The Permanent Representative at the Permanent Mission of the Republic of the Maldives to the United Nations Office at Geneva Dr. Hala Hameed made the remarks, at the ongoing UN Human Rights Council's 35th session. During the session, Hala stated that Palestine and Israel must exist within sovereign borders based on the pre-1967 demarcations, living side by side at peace, with East Jerusalem as Palestine's capital.
She said that without renewed efforts toward this goal, the cycle of hate and fear will continue to lead to violence. She noted that the reality of occupation is that it creates a system of apartheid that is in flagrant violation of human rights, international law, and every sense of human decency. She added that generations of Palestinians and Israelis alike are being robbed of their birthright to stability, safety, and prosperity, and to live free from fear and hatred.
The Permanent Representative concluded her statement citing that the Government of Maldives stands in resolute solidarity with the people of Palestine in their efforts to uphold a sovereign state. She said that the Maldives believes that it is a moral obligation as global citizens to address this ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine and the occupied territories. She urged Israel to enter the process of peace and dialogue in which both States could engage constructively.
The HRC 35th session is currently underway in the Palais des nations, UN Geneva from the 6th till the 23rd of June.