Human Rights – The Israeli airstrikes on the AL-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza this morning 18 October 2023

This senseless act of aggression has resulted in at least 500 casualties and has left our community in shock and grief.

The international community and Aotearoa New Zealand must unequivocally condemn this heinous act of violence and hold Israel accountable for its blatant disregard of international humanitarian law.

The attack on medical facilities is an alarming violation of basic human rights and must not go unanswered.

This attack, which has been confirmed by the Health Ministry in Gaza as a direct Israeli assault, serves as a chilling reminder of the consequences when the forces of aggression are allowed to operate with impunity.

New Zealand cannot afford to stand idly by while such atrocities occur. We demand justice for the innocent victims who sought refuge in hospitals and were mercilessly subjected to violence.

We demand the New Zealand government repudiate and condemn this act and take measures ensure Israeli authorities are held accountable.

This tragic incident underscores the urgency of facilitating a ceasefire and de-escalating the situation in Gaza. The safety and security of innocent civilians must be prioritised above all else.

The world cannot tolerate these blatant violations of international humanitarian law, and it is the responsibility of all nations to ensure that justice prevails. 

We must send a clear message that such atrocities will not go unpunished, and that the safety and well-being of innocent civilians must be preserved at all costs.

Ngā mihi,

Dr Ahmed Saadeh
National Coordinator
On behalf of the Palestinians of Aotearoa New Zealand