Parliament speakers from 13 countries condemn 'Israel’s' aggression on Gaza

Parliament speakers from 13 countries gathered in Istanbul on Friday for the Groups of Parliaments in Support of Palestine meeting, where they issued a strong condemnation of 'Israel’s' military offensive on Gaza, which has continued for nearly 18 months.

Calling on international organizations to act, the speakers urged a halt to what they described as Tel Aviv’s ongoing aggression.

Malaysian Parliament Speaker Tan Sri Dato Johari bin Abdul reaffirmed her country’s firm support for Palestinian sovereignty, condemning the targeting of civilians. She emphasized that the Palestinian cause is not merely a foreign policy issue for Malaysia, but a matter of humanity and moral conscience.

Pakistan’s Speaker Serdar Ayaz Sadiq echoed similar sentiments, calling the conflict a test of global conscience. He accused 'Israel' of blocking aid convoys, bombing populated areas, and targeting humanitarian workers.

Indonesian Speaker Puan Maharani stressed the need for justice in Palestine, urging fellow parliamentarians to speak out and fulfill their responsibility toward peace and human rights.

In a video message, Spanish Parliament Speaker Armengol Socias described 'Israel’s' actions in Gaza since October 2023 as “a crime against humanity.” She criticized the resumption of bombing after a brief ceasefire, highlighting the destruction of medical facilities and the killing of aid workers. Socias reaffirmed Spain’s recognition of the State of Palestine within the 1967 borders and emphasized the need to end a global culture of impunity.

Deputy Speaker of Azerbaijan’s Parliament Ali Ahmadov pointed to his country’s experience with occupation and ethnic cleansing, condemning the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He called for a permanent ceasefire and affirmed Azerbaijan’s long-standing support for Palestinian statehood.

Ahmadov highlighted the dire conditions in Gaza, where people are suffering from a lack of food, clean water, and healthcare. He reiterated that peace and regional stability depend on a two-state solution based on international law and UN resolutions, with East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine.

On Saturday, the Groups of Parliaments in Support of Palestine issued a declaration urging 'Israel’s' Knesset to repeal laws that violate international law and to implement a full and lasting ceasefire, including all stages of the January 15 agreement.

The declaration, signed by 14 speakers including representatives from Türkiye, Qatar, the UAE, Egypt, and Malaysia, called for a sustainable two-state solution and the right of return for Palestinian refugees in accordance with international resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative.

“We believe that the two-state solution is the only viable option for the security of all nations and states in the region,” the statement read.

Since October 2023, more than 51,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed in 'Israel’s' assault on Gaza.