11/04/2024
Dear friends, colleagues, and network partners,
Thank you for extending your greetings and best wishes. Today, as I celebrate my birthday, I want to take a moment to reflect on the ongoing conflict in Gaza and dedicate this day to the victims of war where more than 30,000 men, women, and children have been killed, injured, or displaced in violation of the international law.
Despite numerous calls by world humanitarian organizations such as UN agencies, Amnesty International, Transparency International, as well as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and several governments, the war on Gaza continues without regard for morality, ethics, and justice. The International Court of Justice issued interim measures aimed at preventing Israel from committing acts in Gaza that fall within the scope of the Genocide Convention, such as killing members of the targeted group and deliberately inflicting conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction. However, the violence and suffering in Gaza persist, with a significant number of casualties, including children and women.
The ICJ ruling highlights the legal obligation of all states party to the Genocide Convention to take material steps to put an end to Israel's genocidal acts in Gaza. Despite these calls for action, Israel continues to disregard its obligation to ensure the basic needs of Palestinians in Gaza are met. The ongoing conflict and disregard for international humanitarian law create chaos and hinder the distribution of humanitarian aid. The situation in Gaza is a grave humanitarian crisis that requires urgent attention and resolution.
The ongoing situation in Gaza has deeply moved me, and I believe it is important to raise awareness and show support for those who have suffered as a result of the conflict. This birthday, I want to use my platform to shed light on their struggles and offer my solidarity.
The impact of war on civilian lives is devastating, and we must come together to support the people of Gaza. I encourage all of you to take a moment to educate yourselves about the situation, to learn about the humanitarian organizations working tirelessly to provide aid, and to consider making a donation to support their efforts. I also want to honor the memory of Palestinian journalists who have been killed or injured while covering the conflict, such as Muhammad Al-Jaja, Majd Fadl Arandas, Motaz Azaiza, Younis Tirawi, Hind Khoudary and Iyad Matar. Their work is crucial in shedding light on the experiences of civilians who are affected by the conflict and their dedication to telling the truth about the situation in Gaza is an inspiration to us all.
Let us stand together for peace, justice, and humanity. Together, we can make a difference. .
"Palestine: The Assault on Journalists". Amnesty International, 2021, .
"Palestine: Journalists under attack." Reporters Without Borders, 2022, .
"UNRWA in Gaza." United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, 2023, .
I urge you to join me in taking action to stop the violence in Gaza and protect the rights of Palestinian civilians and journalists. You can start by educating yourself about the history and context of the conflict, and by contacting your local representatives to demand action. If you would like to join me in supporting the victims of war in Gaza, I kindly ask you to share this post, spread awareness, and consider making a donation to a reputable organization that is actively involved in providing aid and support.
Thank you for being a part of my life, and for your understanding and support.
With love and gratitude,
LEAD Fellows Network Eco-Conservation Initiatives Non-Government Individuals