The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) expresses its profound dismay and strong condemnation of the recent airstrike on the Al-Tabeen school compound in Gaza City, where approximately 100 civilians, mostly displaced Palestinians, were tragically killed.
This heinous act has drawn global attention, including remarks from Australia’s Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, who has denounced the strike.
While we appreciate the condemnation from international leaders, mere words fall significantly short of what is necessary to prevent further atrocities. It is evident that condemnatory statements alone do not deter aggressors, nor do they protect the innocent. The ongoing narrative that ‘Israel has the right to defend itself’ often overshadows the disproportionate violence inflicted upon Gaza’s civilian population, including thousands of children.
“The repeated verbal condemnations from the international community are insufficient. They must evolve into concrete actions that protect the lives of innocent Palestinians,” stated Dr. Rateb Jneid, President of AFIC. “We cannot allow the rhetoric of self-defense to justify the indiscriminate suffering imposed on an entire population.”
AFIC urgently calls for the following actions from the global community:
- Immediate ceasefire enforcement to prevent further civilian casualties.
- International sanctions against Israel until compliance with international humanitarian laws is verified.
- Support for the ongoing legal investigations at the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court regarding potential charges of genocide and other war crimes.
- An emergency session of the United Nations to address the crisis and implement resolutions binding on all parties.
“In the face of such overwhelming tragedy, it is not enough to feel sympathy for the victims; we must act decisively to prevent further loss of life and ensure accountability,” Dr. Jneid added. “Every moment we delay, more innocent lives are risked. The international community must step up, not just with words, but with binding resolutions that end this violence.”
AFIC stands firm in its resolve that protecting civilians must be the paramount concern of all actions taken, and urges all entities involved to adhere strictly to international humanitarian laws. Only through definitive action can we hope to see a cessation of the violence that has devastated so many lives.
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