ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) has voiced its strong support for the rights of the State and People of Israel to self-defense while condemning the recent coordinated terrorist attacks by Hamas and other allied terror groups.
This was as contained in a press statement issued on Thursday by Emeka Umeagbalasi, Board Chairman, International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law.
He recalled that these attacks, which took place on 7 October, 2023, resulted in the loss of over 1,400 lives, including 286 soldiers and 31 Americans, along with the injury of 3,400 defenseless Israelis. Additionally, about 199 and 250 Israelis have been abducted and are currently held hostage, the statement added.
The property destruction resulting from the attacks has been widespread, causing considerable damage to the State of Israel and its citizens. Intersociety strongly condemns these actions as inhumane and unjust.
Equally, Intersociety expresses its concerns regarding the rising civilian casualties and property destruction in the City of Gaza. These actions are not in line with the “Geneva Conventions of August 12, 1949” and its 1977 Protocols (1 and 11) which Israel is expected to adhere to. The Geneva Conventions provide clear guidelines on the use of force, proportionality, and legitimate self-defense.
The Intersociety urged leaders of the State of Israel to exercise caution in their response and avoid turning the City of Gaza into a place of devastation.
It said, with Israel’s advanced intelligence capabilities, it is crucial to pinpoint the exact locations of Israeli hostages and the enclaves of Hamas and Hezbollah.
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According to the group, the information can help protect the innocent Palestinian population and their homes, saying that it is also essential for Israel to work within the bounds of international law when conducting rescue operations.
Umeagbalasi said that the United Nations has come under criticism for its inability to effectively manage the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and other global crises.
The Intersociety highlights the failure of the UN to maintain international peace and security, making it clear that the organization is currently unable to fulfill its founding objectives. This criticism is not unique, as the UN has faced challenges in addressing conflicts worldwide.
Intersociety expressed fear that the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict will pose as a longstanding issue with deep historical roots, advising that it is important for all parties involved to seek a peaceful resolution that respects the rights and security of both Israelis and Palestinians.
The group therefore called calls for a renewed commitment to diplomacy and international cooperation to end the suffering in the region, noting that understanding the historical context of this conflict will reveal the complexities involved and the need for a comprehensive and lasting solution.