BELMOPAN, Belize, Aug 19, CMC – The Belize government says it is “gravely concerned” at the escalating violence against Palestinian civilians in the West Bank, calling for “a resolution of the conflict grounded in international law, justice, and mutual security”.
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the John Briceño government has noted the escalating violence against civilians in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, over the last months, “which have resulted in loss of life on both sides and triggered a wave of further settler reprisals against neighbouring Palestinian communities.
“As the occupying Power, Israel bears primary responsibility under international humanitarian law to ensure the protection of the Palestinian population, including from violence perpetrated by Israeli settlers, and to investigate and hold accountable all those responsible.”
Belize said it is calling on the government of Israel “to take immediate and effective measures to prevent further settler violence, to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice, and to refrain from any actions that collectively punish Palestinian civilian populations.
“Belize reaffirms its position that the Israeli occupation of and settlements in Palestinian territory are unlawful and must end, consistent with the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice of July 2024.
“Belize further reaffirms its support for the New York Declaration and for a just and lasting peace in which a sovereign and viable State of Palestine exists alongside Israel in peace and security.”
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country said that it “stands in solidarity with the Palestinian people and reiterates its call for the protection of all civilians, in Israel and in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, and for a resolution of the conflict grounded in international law, justice, and mutual security”.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a long-standing historical and political struggle over land, sovereignty, and self-determination. The current phase involves a devastating war triggered by the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on Israel, resulting in massive casualties, widespread displacement, and severe humanitarian crises in Gaza and the West Bank.
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