At Nordic Right, we are committed to advocating for and upholding human rights across the Nordic Region and beyond. It is with great concern and a heavy heart that we address the ongoing crisis in Palestine, where the Israeli army has been striking civilians for 48 days.
According to publicly available data, nearly 14,000 civilians, including 5,600 children, have lost their lives in Israel’s attacks to date. Nordic Rights vehemently condemns these acts of violence, which not only defy international law but also disregard universal human rights principles.
The Israeli government’s justification for its aggression, citing Hamas’ actions, does not excuse the targeting of immune facilities such as hospitals, schools, churches, and mosques. Even during the recent raid on Al-Shifa Hospital, where the Israeli army allegedly damaged medical equipment and fired indiscriminately, no evidence supporting these allegations has been shared with the public.
It is essential to underscore that targeting hospitals and ambulances containing civilians, even if there are allegations of armed individuals present, is a blatant violation of international agreements. The loss of 195 healthcare personnel, 51 unusable ambulances, and the incapacitation of 130 healthcare facilities are distressing consequences of Israel’s ongoing attacks.
We firmly assert that Israel’s actions draw disturbing parallels to historical atrocities, with its targeting of civilians and essential facilities resembling tactics employed by oppressive regimes in the past.
Furthermore, we express deep disappointment in the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) for its apparent selective commitment to law, humanity, and democracy. The court’s inaction during the COVID-19 pandemic and its indifference to human rights violations in the Russia-Ukraine war raise serious questions about its dedication to universal principles.
The abandonment of Europeans expressing support for Palestine, facing threats to their fundamental human rights, is a stark illustration of the ECtHR’s failure to uphold its mandate. Nordic Rights calls for a reevaluation of the court’s role in safeguarding human rights and ensuring accountability.
As peaceful demonstrations in support of Palestine face bans and freedom of expression is threatened, Nordic Rights stands in solidarity with those facing censorship. We denounce the termination of individuals, such as Jazmine Hughes and Muhammed Kaci, for expressing legitimate concerns and demanding accountability.
In times of crisis, it is crucial for the international community to unite in defense of human rights and the principles that underpin them. Nordic Rights calls on governments, institutions, and individuals to join us in condemning the violations in Palestine and working towards a just and peaceful resolution.