Ambassador Alhantouli Calls for Global Action Against Gaza Genocide

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in catastrophic humanitarian consequences, according to Rabii Alhantouli, the Palestinian Ambassador to Montenegro. He asserts that the world must stop remaining silent about what he describes as a “genocidal war” waged against the Palestinian people. The situation has escalated dramatically over the past two years, with reports indicating that the number of Palestinian civilians killed may exceed 68,122, a figure that continues to rise as the conflict rages on.

In an exclusive interview, Alhantouli detailed the devastating impact of the Israeli military operations in Gaza. He highlighted that approximately 90 percent of the region has been destroyed through the use of over 200,000 tons of bombs. Tragically, among the casualties, there are at least 18,592 children and 12,400 women. Additionally, more than 178,814 individuals have sustained injuries and lack access to basic medical care.

A Call for International Intervention

Alhantouli emphasized the urgent need for concrete actions to halt what he labels as genocide. He praised the Montenegrin government’s clear stance on calling for an immediate ceasefire and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. “Words are no longer sufficient,” he stated, underscoring the necessity for the international community to take responsibility for the ongoing violence.

The ambassador pointed out that the situation is dire, with many civilians, including journalists and medical personnel, becoming targets. He noted that 252 journalists and 1,411 medical and humanitarian workers have been killed, while 39 hospitals have been destroyed or rendered non-operational. Furthermore, around 1.2 million people in Gaza have been forcibly displaced multiple times, facing starvation and deprivation of basic healthcare.

Alhantouli also criticized the Israeli government’s actions beyond Gaza, mentioning the ongoing ethnic cleansing in the West Bank and Jerusalem. He described the establishment of Israeli settlements and military checkpoints as a systematic effort to suppress the Palestinian economy and infringe upon human rights.

Historical Context and Future Prospects

Reflecting on the conflict’s historical roots, Alhantouli warned that the events witnessed in October 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, should not be viewed in isolation. “The beginning was in 1948, when the Israeli state was established on Palestinian land,” he explained. He argued that the long-standing Israeli occupation has been the source of violence and chaos in the region.

Looking ahead to potential negotiations, he expressed cautious optimism regarding talks announced to take place in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. However, he noted that the Israeli government has consistently sabotaged efforts to achieve a ceasefire, citing multiple failed international attempts to halt the conflict. Alhantouli stressed that meaningful international pressure, including sanctions against Israel, is necessary for any negotiations to yield positive results.

Responding to a question about the United Nations’ stance, Alhantouli affirmed that various international bodies have recognized Israel’s actions as genocidal. He called for the international community to fulfill its obligations under the UN Charter and various treaties, stating that the failure to protect Palestinian civilians undermines global order based on justice and equality.

Regarding the European Union’s response, he acknowledged a recent positive shift but noted the lack of concrete actions to enforce human rights laws in relation to Israeli actions. He pointed out that while the EU has acted swiftly in other human rights violations, it has failed to apply similar measures against Israel.

Alhantouli concluded by emphasizing the importance of the Palestinian voice being heard around the world. He stated that the Palestinian embassy in Montenegro actively collaborates with governments and civil society to raise awareness and solicit action against the ongoing genocide. “Every message of support and every initiative from this region is significant for our suffering people,” he said, reinforcing the need for solidarity in the quest for justice and peace.