GCC States Express Deep Concern Over Serious Humanitarian Situation in Gaza, Call for Immediate Ceasefire

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) States have affirmed their steadfast support for the vital work of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in promoting and protecting human rights globally, and commended the dedication and commitment shown by the Office in addressing the human rights challenges facing the world today. This came in a statement delivered by HE the Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Office in Geneva Dr. Hind bint Abdulrahman Al-Muftah, on behalf of the GCC States, in her capacity as Chair of the GCC Group, within the framework of the general debate under item 2, at the 57th session of the Human Rights Council. The GCC States strongly condemned the ongoing Israeli military aggression on the Gaza Strip, which is now entering its twelfth month, and the recent developments in the West Bank. They called on the international community to pressure to stop the continued excessive use of force, which has resulted in tens of thousands of civilia n casualties and widespread destruction of vital civilian infrastructure without any legal or moral deterrent. They also expressed their deep concern over the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and urgently called for an immediate ceasefire. The GCC countries stressed the urgent need to fully implement resolutions 31/36 and 35/25 on the establishment of a database on companies involved in activities related to Israeli settlements without delay, and encouraged all stakeholders to support this important mandate and continue to provide related information. They also stressed the importance of open dialogue and effective engagement within the multilateral system, and their firm belief that constructive cooperation and adherence to international law are the basis for achieving progress on shared priorities and working towards a just and equitable world for all. The GCC States expressed their aspiration for the upcoming Future Summit and the adoption of the Future Charter, which will constitute an important st ep forward in our collective commitment to reject the status quo presented by the High Commissioner for Human Rights and pave the way for a more peaceful, just and sustainable world. Source: Qatar News Agency