The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) welcomes the International Criminal Court’s issuance of arrest warrants against the Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli Defence Minister Yolav Gallant that underscores the seriousness of the crimes in Gaza and vindicates the calls for action following months of indiscriminate and mass killings and continued and deliberate denial of basic human rights.
The ICC’s actions, which include charges of crimes against humanity, highlight the systematic deprivation of essential human needs and acts of violence against those seeking food and humanitarian aid in Gaza.
These charges, which align with the evidence of a state policy of extermination or murder, may support a charge of genocide.
‘The arrest warrants only show that world must take action to stop the killings now, they must force Israel to stop military action and find alternate ways to solve the crises’ said Dr Rateb Jneid President of AFIC.
This action must finally provide the moral clarity needed for the Australian Government to now take decisive action. While sanctions are already in place against Hamas, whose leaders have also had arrest warrants issued, it is imperative that similar measures are applied to Israel. The use of legal sanctions against war criminal suspects, including the Israeli Prime Minister and Defence Minister, is a necessary step in upholding justice and human rights. Australia has long said that it values the international rules-based order.
‘We demand the Australian Government to demonstrate its commitment to these values by implementing military sanctions against Israel and supporting the ICC’s efforts to end impunity for war crimes.’ continued the President of AFIC.
AFIC also rejects any suggestion that the ICC should not have acted or delayed its action for any reason. The pursuit of justice and accountability is a cornerstone of international law and human rights. The ICC’s mandate to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the most serious crimes of concern to the international community must be respected and supported.
The Australian Government needs to also clarify its involvement in Israel’s global military supply chain and ensure that it is not supporting the crimes in Gaza. The distress caused to many Australian citizens, who feel undervalued and disregarded, is profound and unacceptable.
AFIC, established in 1964, stands as the Peak Muslim Organisation in Australia, with 170 members including 9 State and Territory Councils. It has a rich history of pioneering numerous community services and actively advocating for the rights and representation of the Muslim community.
Authorised:
Dr Rateb Jneid, President