The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils notes the action taken by the Australian Government today by imposing Magnitsky-style targeted financial sanctions and travel bans on seven Israeli individuals, as well as targeted financial sanctions on one entity. AFIC understand that these measures are in direct response to their involvement in settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank.
The individuals sanctioned have been implicated in egregious acts of violence, including beatings, sexual assault, and torture against Palestinians, resulting in severe injuries and fatalities. The sanctioned entity is a youth group known for inciting and perpetrating violence against Palestinian communities.
This action, though welcomed, appears to more limited than action taken by the United States and other Australian Allies.
It also appears that the Australian Government not willing to take more specific action against the State of Israel following the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) clear position on 19 July 2024, which declared the ongoing settlement in the Occupied Palestinian Territory as illegal. The ruling necessitates an immediate halt to all new settlements, the evacuation of settlers from these territories, and compensation for any damages caused therein. Additionally, it has been asserted that Israel is engaging in discrimination against Palestinians, effectively amounting to the operation of an apartheid state.
This historic position of the ICJ requires serious action on behalf of the Australian Government and should have taken initial steps with the power it has in support of the position.
‘AFIC is awaiting action from the Government that reflects the gravity of these matters and that guarantees the fair application of international law, in light definitive stance of the ICJ.’ Said Dr Rateb Jneid, President of AFIC.
It is imperative that the international community including Australia, adhere to the decisions of the ICJ. The continual brutality against a whole population cannot be allowed to go on. Australia must take a principled position and must support the highest international court.
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