OIC condemns Israeli aggression in Gaza, calls for int’l intervention

Islamic body specifically denounces indiscriminate attacks on Rafah city

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has issued a robust condemnation of the ongoing Israeli military aggression against the Gaza Strip, specifically denouncing the indiscriminate attacks on the city of Rafah in the southern region of the Gaza Strip.

The attacks have resulted in the tragic martyrdom and injury of hundreds of Palestinians, a majority of whom are reported to be children and women. The OIC expressed grave concern over Israel's disregard for international warnings and the severe consequences of targeting a city housing over 1.5 million Palestinians, many of whom already grapple with insufficient access to the necessities of life.

#OIC Calls on the International Community to Assume its Responsibilities Towards What is Happening in #Gaza: https://t.co/DkAmSI6HBH pic.twitter.com/FAvZJoEHW5

— OIC (@OIC_OCI) February 14, 2024

In an official statement, the OIC underscored the seriousness of the expanding Israeli aggression, characterising it as a continuation of the crime of genocide. The organisation emphasised that the escalation further exacerbates human suffering in the Gaza and constitutes an unacceptable attempt to forcibly displace the Palestinian people.

Also read: Pakistan condemns Israel’s Rafah ‘massacre’

The OIC pointedly referenced the order of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which previously called on Israel, as the occupying power, to take immediate measures to prevent acts falling within the scope of Article II of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.

Furthermore, the OIC condemned the ongoing attacks, incitement, and organised terrorism conducted by extremist settler groups and Israeli occupation forces against Palestinian citizens. These acts, extending to their land, property, and holy sites, are prevalent in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem.

The OIC renewed its call to the international community, with a particular emphasis on the UN Security Council, to fulfil its responsibilities in putting an immediate end to Israeli aggression comprehensively. Additionally, the OIC urged for the unconditional delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, where the situation is dire, and the need for assistance is urgent.