SUHAKAM SUPPORTS FREE PALESTINE MOVEMENT AND CONDEMNS HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS IN GAZA
KUALA LUMPUR (3 AUGUST 2024) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses its support for the Free Palestine Rally to be held on 4 August 2024, organised by the Malaysian government at Axiata Arena Bukit Jalil. The rally, where Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will deliver a keynote speech, is a significant platform for highlighting the ongoing human rights violations in Palestine.
SUHAKAM is always consistent in demonstrating solidarity with the Palestinian struggle for liberation. The commission 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.
International Law and Accountability
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. SUHAKAM supports all efforts to ensure that those responsible for these grave crimes are held accountable.
Geneva Conventions and Humanitarian Law
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.
Role of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs)
NHRIs, including SUHAKAM, play a vital role in advocating for human rights and documenting violations. SUHAKAM has 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. SUHAKAM urges the government to take a much firmer stand in Malaysia’s role in global efforts in the condemnation of all manner of impunity against the tenets of human rights especially those affecting the plight of the Palestinian people.
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Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
3 August 2024
MS 
EN