Maldives Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef has called on the United Nations (UN) and nations to ask themselves what they have done to stop Israel's genocide against Palestinian citizens.
During the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA), Vice President Latheef stated that the right to a sovereign future belongs to everyone and that there is no country other than Palestine that has been denied such a right.
"Israel's genocide and war crimes against Palestinians continue. And their actions are not confined to Gaza. Its military attacks across the region have violated the sovereignty of other States," said Vice President Latheef.
He went on to say that no country has the right to advocate for its own sovereignty while violating another country's sovereignty. He said that no state should be given protection from being held accountable by their military power or through political alliances.
The Vice President stated it is not enough to just condemn them.
"Every Member State must ask: What have we done to end this violence?," said Vice President Latheef.
"The United Nations must ask itself the same question."
He said that the issue is not a lack of law and that international law is very clear. He highlighted that what is missing is equal enforcement.
"International law cannot bind the weak and bend for the powerful. The same rules. The same standard. No exceptions," Vice President Latheef continued.
The Vice President sternly called for an end to Israel's genocide in Gaza.
Additionally, he said Israel's illegal occupation of Palestine and other Arab nations must end.
"Illegal settlements must end."
The Vice President went on to say that humanitarian aid should be provided to Palestinians in a safe, expedited and broad manner, and that the decisions of international courts and the UN's resolutions must be respected and enforced.
"For the Palestinian people, a sovereign future means freedom and dignity. Self determination. And the right to live with security in their own State," stated Vice President Latheef.
As per the Vice President, Maldives will always stand with the people of Palestine and the right for their future.
And so, the Vice President reiterated the call to recognize East Jerusalem as Palestine's capital, and to recognize an independent and sovereign State of Palestine.
"And if this Organisation is to restore trust and deliver for all, Palestine must become a full Member of the United Nations," said the Vice President.
