Palestinians In South Africa Welcome UN Decision To Investigate Israel's Violation of International Law

The Palestinians living in South Africa have welcomed the recent development from the United Nations Human Rights Council which recently voted to investigate Israel’s violations of international law in OPT, including East Jerusalem and Israel.

In a statement signed by the Ambassador of the State of Palestine to South Africa, Hanan Jarrar stated that the embassy welcomes the United Nations Human Rights Council’s adoption in Geneva on the establishment of an ongoing and independent commission of inquiry to investigate the violation of International Law by Israel in its campaign to occupy Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem and in Israel.

“South Africa’s representative to Geneva, Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi, spoke on behalf of the Africa Group and presented a strong case on the need for Israel to be held accountable for its violent actions towards Palestinians. Mxolisi reiterated the Africa Group’s support for the statement by African Union chairperson, Mousa Faki Mahamat, condemning the violent attacks by Israeli security forces in the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the bombardment of the Gaza Strip, and the forced removals of Palestinians from their homes in occupied East Jerusalem – all in violation of international law.

“The Africa Group called for the establishment of an independent commission of inquiry into Israel’s actions to put an end to the impunity that Israel currently enjoys. 

“The adoption of the resolution reflects the determination of the international community to address and investigate Israel’s systematic violations of international law, including its protracted racist policies and repression of the Palestinian people,” the statement reads.

Jarrar further stated that “this landmark resolution is an indisputable international recognition of Israel’s systemic oppression and discrimination against the Palestinian people, including the systematic denial of basic human rights. This reality of apartheid and impunity can no longer be ignored.

“Today states that stood on the right side of history and voted in favor of the resolution affirmed the principle of accountability and respect for international rights. They elevated and reaffirmed the centrality of the Human Rights Council and the multilateral system in general. All States and relevant parties must now fully cooperate with the commission to hold perpetrators accountable for their crimes and achieve justice for the victims.

“The humanity and dignity of the Palestinian people have been vindicated and their hope in justice revived. This was long overdue.”