l’Algérie appelle à sommer l’entité sioniste à accorder l’accès humanitaire à l’UNRWA dans les territoires palestiniens occupés
Summary of Algeria’s Statement on Humanitarian Access in Gaza at The Hague
At a public hearing in The Hague, Algeria urged the international community to pressure Israel to allow humanitarian access for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The plea comes amidst a dire humanitarian crisis in Palestinian territories, particularly in Gaza, described as one of the worst humanitarian failures of our generation.
Maya Sahli Fadel, a prominent Algerian human rights expert, highlighted that as an occupying power, Israel is obliged to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery in occupied Palestinian territories. She argued that the blockade imposed by Israel severely restricts access to vital resources and humanitarian assistance, pushing the Palestinian population toward hunger and deprivation.
Fadel condemned Israel’s actions as a means to systematically undermine the present and future of the Palestinian people, claiming that abandoning UNRWA equates to abandoning Palestinian rights and dignity. She noted that the closure of critical aid channels violates international law, including United Nations resolutions and principles of equality and justice.
Expressing Algeria’s dismay at the humanitarian situation, especially in Gaza, Fadel stated that every individual in the enclave relies on humanitarian assistance for survival. She reiterated that the blockade not only obstructs food and medical supplies but is also strategically used as a weapon of war.
Algeria stressed that Israel has a binding obligation under international humanitarian law to ensure the provision of basic necessities to civilians in the occupied territories. The nation insists that Israel must adhere to international agreements, including the Geneva Conventions, without exception.
Furthermore, the Algerian representatives criticized the global community for its inaction despite appeals from the United Nations Secretary-General and other humanitarian entities. They highlighted that the absence of coordinated international efforts reflects a disregard for the Palestinian people’s fundamental rights and existence.
Samia Bourouba, a member of the African Union’s legal commission, reiterated the illegality of the Israeli laws enacted on October 28, 2024, which notably prohibit UNRWA from operating in occupied territories. She articulated that such laws exemplify Israel’s blatant disregard for its international responsibilities and contribute significantly to the worsening socioeconomic conditions faced by Palestinians.
Concluding their arguments, Algerian representatives called upon the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to affirm that Israel is violating its legal obligations as a UN member state and as an occupying power.
In summary, Algeria’s strong stance during the hearings underscores the urgent need for humanitarian access and international accountability regarding Israel’s actions in Palestinian territories.
