LETTER | Conflict in Gaza: M'sia must step up for Palestinians

LETTER | I’m writing to express my profound concern and anguish over the recent and devastating events in Gaza, particularly the tragic Israeli strikes on the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital - which resulted in the loss of lives of over 500 innocent Palestinians as reported by the Gazan Health Ministry.

The genocidal attacks by the Israeli military forces demand immediate international attention. The statistics from the Palestinian Health Ministry are nothing short of horrifying.

To date, we are mourning the deaths of more than 4,650 Palestinians, including 1,873 children and 1,023 women, and the injuries suffered by some 14,245 individuals and those who are displaced and lost their homes.

The suffering and loss of lives are beyond measure. This humanitarian catastrophe demands swift and concerted action from the whole world.

The Israeli airstrikes on the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital stand as the single deadliest incident in Gaza. The international community's condemnation, widespread protests and demonstrations taking place at Israeli embassies across several countries reflect the gravity of this crisis.

Hence, I strongly urge Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to consider the following actions:

• Withdraw his attendance from the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) meeting, scheduled in November, in San Francisco, to reflect Malaysia’s resolute protest against the complicity of the US in backing this brutality to the hilt. This symbolic action will underscore Malaysia's commitment to justice and human rights.

• Call for swift and thorough action by the Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) of the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Israel, the ferocious killing machine, aimed at bringing those responsible for the massacre to justice.

• Demand for the number of humanitarian missions sent to Palestine to be intensified. The Gazans are in dire circumstances and Malaysia can make a substantial difference by providing essential aid and support.

In these trying times, Malaysia has the opportunity to lead by example - show solidarity for the oppressed and uphold the principles of justice and humanity.

The world is watching and the mainstream media must embark on a crucial role to raise awareness in demanding collective world actions.

Writer is the founder and chairperson of Centre for Human Rights Research and Advocacy (CENTHRA).

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.