Geneva: Qatar has reiterated its condemnation of the Israeli attack, calling for the Human Rights Council and the international community to take concrete actions to hold the aggressors accountable and prevent their impunity. The statement was made during an emergency session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, part of its 60th session, which was convened in response to the attack targeting Doha.
According to Union of OIC News Agencies, the State of Qatar's delegation was led by Dr. Mariam bint Ali bin Nasser Al-Misnad, Minister of State for International Cooperation. In her remarks, she expressed gratitude to the Human Rights Council for its swift action in organizing the session, highlighting the Council's crucial role in safeguarding human rights and promoting global peace and security. She also acknowledged the support from member states in convening the session during this critical period.
Dr. Al-Misnad emphasized the severity of the attack, noting it targeted a country actively mediating, alongside the United States and Egypt, for a ceasefire in Gaza. She argued that attacking a mediating nation undermines the negotiation process and disrupts peace efforts. She highlighted Qatar's successful mediation efforts, which have resulted in the release of hostages and a truce agreement, providing relief to civilians in Gaza.
She further stated that Qatar's mediation is not symbolic but has yielded tangible benefits, saving lives and fostering hope for peaceful conflict resolutions. The attack, she warned, jeopardizes these efforts and diminishes opportunities for achieving peace.
The Minister described the attack as part of a broader campaign to obstruct Qatar's diplomatic initiatives, referencing statements by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that threaten further actions against other nations. This, she argued, indicates a dangerous escalation that could violate international law and destabilize the region.
Dr. Al-Misnad also referenced the unanimous condemnation of the attack by the emergency Arab-Islamic summit in Doha, which deemed it a blatant violation of international law. The summit reaffirmed the principles of collective security and international legitimacy as essential for peace and security.
She posed rhetorical questions about the world’s responsibility to prevent hostility and violence, questioning the message being sent to future generations about humanity and respect for rights. She stressed the need for peace and the importance of upholding the rule of law to prevent unchecked conflict.
The Minister called on the Human Rights Council to activate international mechanisms to ensure aggressors are held accountable, thus preserving the rule of law and human dignity. She reiterated Qatar's condemnation of the Israeli aggression and emphasized the importance of protecting mediating states to safeguard negotiation and peace efforts.
Finally, Dr. Al-Misnad expressed confidence that the Human Rights Council would uphold human rights principles and protect international law, ensuring that mediation remains a vital tool for resolving conflicts and securing rights and freedoms for all peoples.