At Nordic Right, we are committed to advocating for and upholding human rights across the Nordic Region and beyond. It is with great concern that we address the recent developments in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Herzog expressed hope for the release of a significant number of hostages held by Hamas “in the coming days.” The situation, stemming from Hamas’s cross-border rampage into Israeli communities on October 7, has led to a siege on Gaza and a military invasion by Israel.
While we acknowledge the diplomatic efforts and hopeful signs for a potential deal, we condemn any actions that compromise the safety and well-being of civilians caught in the crossfire. The reported hostage-taking and the ongoing hostilities are deeply troubling, highlighting the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to protect the fundamental human rights of all individuals involved.
White House deputy national security adviser Jon Finer’s statement about a potential agreement to free “considerably more than 12” hostages, coupled with an extended pause in fighting and the distribution of humanitarian assistance in Gaza, is a positive step. However, we emphasize that the rights and safety of civilians must be at the forefront of any negotiated settlement.
Nordic Rights calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urges all parties involved to prioritize the protection of civilians. We echo the sentiment expressed by Finer that “Nothing is agreed until everything is agreed,” emphasizing the delicate nature of such negotiations and the potential for unforeseen challenges.
In line with our commitment to human rights, we call on Israel to exercise caution in its military operations, particularly in densely populated areas. The reduction of swaths of Gaza to rubble and the displacement of two-thirds of its population demand heightened awareness and protection for civilians.
As advocates for justice and human dignity, Nordic Rights encourages all stakeholders to draw lessons from past military operations, ensuring the enhanced protection of civilians by narrowing the areas of active combat and providing clear guidance on where civilians can seek refuge.
We will closely monitor the situation and continue to speak out against any violations of human rights. Our thoughts are with the civilians affected by this conflict, and we implore the international community to intensify efforts towards a lasting and just resolution.
