KUALA LUMPUR (17 JANUARY 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses its deepest condolences and outrage over the Israeli military’s attack that resulted in the tragic death of the Director of the Independent Commission for Human Rights (ICHR) in Gaza, Raafat Salha and his family. We stand in solidarity with Mr. Salha and all human rights defenders working under the most dangerous and difficult circumstances to uphold the fundamental rights of their communities.
We are appalled by the ongoing violence in the Occupied Palestinian Territories which continues to claim innocent lives, exacerbate human suffering and violate international humanitarian and human rights laws. The deliberate targeting of civilians, especially human rights defenders who play a vital role in advocating for justice and peace, represents a gross violation of human rights principles and international norms.
SUHAKAM echoes the concerns raised by the Independent Commission for Human Rights (ICHR) which is the ‘A’ status national human rights institution in Palestine and calls for an immediate, transparent and independent investigation into the attack. We urge the international community to intensify efforts to ensure accountability for these heinous crimes and to hold those responsible to account in accordance with international law.
While welcoming the recent ceasefire agreement in Gaza, SUHAKAM urges that it be the first step toward a lasting peace. We call on all parties to the conflict to adhere to their obligations under international law, protect the rights of civilians and cease all acts of violence. The protection of human rights defenders must be prioritized and impunity for the attackers on these defenders must end.
We also urge the United Nations, international human rights organizations and the global community to take urgent measures to protect Palestinian civilians and human rights defenders, as well as to ensure an immediate cessation of hostilities in the region. Peace and justice are indispensable for the dignity of all people and only through accountability and respect for human rights can a sustainable solution to the conflict be achieved.
SUHAKAM will continue to monitor the situation closely and work alongside other national human rights institutions and international bodies to support the protection of human rights defenders and the Palestinian people’s right to live in peace, security and dignity.
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The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 17 January 2025
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