RAMALLAH, April 1, 2018 (WAFA) – Member of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), Hanan Ashrawi, said by blocking a UN Security Council statement to condemn Israel’s massacre in Gaza, the United States and the United Kingdom chose to be complicit in Israel‘s persistent violations and violence.

Speaking in a statement Saturday, Ashrawi said, “Such a counterproductive stance can render them [the UK and the US] complicit in Israel‘s military occupation and in its persistent violations and violence. Neither one has displayed the moral or political courage to hold Israel to account and to curb its illegal behavior.”

“The Israeli army used unbridled violence, unleashing more than 100 snipers and firing live ammunition, teargas and rubber-coated steel bullets against the protestors before the very eyes of the entire international community. Yet, the UN Security Council failed to agree on a statement condemning the egregious violations that occurred at the hands of Israel.”

She called on the international community and “all people of conscience” to provide protection for the Palestinian people and “to put an end to further bloodshed and loss of innocent lives.”

“It is time for the international system to adopt punitive measures and sanctions against Israel in relation to the occupation.  Furthermore, the International Criminal Court is called upon to speed up its investigation and to undertake concrete steps in this context,” Ashrawi remarked.

She continued, “The Palestinian people‘s determination to remain on their land and their commitment to the global principles of justice, freedom and self-determination are a remarkable tribute to resilience and humanity.”

Ashrawi extended condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to the wounded.

M.N