Palestinian Envoy Calls for Gaza Ceasefire at Non-Aligned Movement Meeting

Palestinian Ambassador Rayid Mansour appealed to the Non-Aligned Movement in Kampala, Uganda, to pressure Israel for a ceasefire in Gaza after 100 days of war with Hamas. Despite UN resolutions, a ceasefire remains elusive. Mansour accused Israel of apartheid and genocide in the conflict that erupted on October 7, resulting in significant casualties and displacement in Gaza.

The Palestinian ambassador to the United Nations, Rayid Mansour, addressed the 120 members of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) convening in Kampala, Uganda, calling for their support in pressuring Israel to implement a cease-fire in Gaza after 100 days of conflict with Hamas.

NAM's Role in Decolonization

The Non-Aligned Movement, formed during the collapse of colonial systems and the height of the Cold War, has played a crucial role in decolonization processes, according to its website.

Mansour's Accusations Against Israel

Mansour asserted that Israel is perpetrating apartheid against the Palestinians in the ongoing war, which erupted on October 7 when Hamas launched attacks on southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the capture of 250 hostages.

He further claimed that Israel's retaliatory actions in the Gaza Strip have led to the deaths of nearly 24,000 people and the displacement of about 80% of the population.

"We are still under this colonial occupation by Israel and we see genocide committed on our people, particularly in the Gaza Strip," Mansour stated.

Gratitude for South Africa's Support

Mansour expressed gratitude to South Africa for initiating a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). He emphasized that the Palestinians are the last remaining group seeking national independence and an end to colonialism.

Israel's Response

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has maintained that Israel will continue its war against Hamas until victory is achieved and will not be deterred by any entity, including the ICJ.

Israel vehemently denies allegations of genocide in Gaza, asserting that it makes every effort to avoid civilian casualties. Additionally, it rejects accusations of apartheid, viewing them as an attack on its legitimacy.

Upcoming NAM Summit

At least 30 member states of the Non-Aligned Movement are expected to participate in the heads of state meeting scheduled for the end of the week-long deliberations. Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni will succeed Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev as the organization's president for the next three years.