Urgent Action Needed: Indonesia Condemns Double Standards in Gaza
A Cry for Justice Amidst a Humanitarian Crisis
Indonesia has firmly condemned the ongoing violence in Gaza, calling for an end to what it describes as “double standards” applied by the international community. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Arrmanatha Nasir addressed the United Nations General Assembly Emergency Session (ESS-10), where he passionately highlighted the devastating consequences of the ongoing conflict. Since October 7, 2023, the upheaval has claimed the lives of over 44,532 individuals, with the majority being women and children.
Nasir emphasized the shocking toll of the conflict, noting that the number of lives lost exceeds the populations of seven UN member countries. He lamented that while the world mourns the loss, “if the killing of thousands of innocent people is not considered genocide, then what is appropriate?” He urged the world to recognize the gravity of the situation, describing it as a humanitarian crisis demanding immediate attention.
International Law Under Question
The Indonesian delegation underscored the failures of the international community in addressing the situation. Eight draft resolutions aimed at stopping the violence in Gaza were brought before the UN Security Council, but several were vetoed. Even curated resolutions that did pass were not effectively implemented.
The disregard for numerous legal decisions outlined by the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, which demand accountability and an end to crimes against humanity further highlights the perceived injustice. According to Nasir, these consistent oversights have essentially given a license to continue the violence, undermining the international legal order.
Momentum needs to beいうreigned in the region.
”
A Call for Concrete Action
Indonesia called on the international community to take concrete steps, including halting arms shipments to Israel, effectively implementing UN Security Council Resolutions, and assisting with humanitarian efforts in Gaza through international aid.
Nasir expressed deep concern regarding Israel’s continuous obstruction of international aid reaching Gaza, its efforts to undermine the UNRWA, the United Nations agency responsible for supporting Palestinian refugees, and the tragic loss of 333 humanitarian workers, over 249 of which were UNRWA staff while tirelessly working to help the people of Gaza.
The continued bastion of hope for a solution to this ongoing crisis is a two-state solution, urged Nasir, emphasizing that it’s time for the world to side with justice and humanity. This is aligned with President Prabowo Subianto’s commitment to solidarity with oppressed people globally, which includes unwavering support for the Palestinian cause.
Indonesia pledges to stand stalwart in wielding justice and processing humanitarian support to Qaz.
Nasir appealed to all member countries to support resolutions aimed at halting violence and restoring humanity to the world order system, “When the world chooses to side with justice, the humanitarian crisis facing the Palestinian people will end.”
What specific examples of “double standards” in the international community’s response to the Gaza crisis does Indonesia cite?
## Interview: Double Standards and the Crisis in Gaza
**Host:** Joining us today is Dr. Fatimah Hassan, a renowned international relations expert specializing in Middle East affairs. Dr. Hassan, thank you for being here. Indonesia has been vocal in condemning the ongoing violence in Gaza, using terms like “double standards” to describe the international community’s response. Can you elaborate on what they mean by this?
**Dr. Hassan:** Absolutely. Indonesia’s concerns are rooted in the perceived imbalance in how the international community reacts to conflicts. While understandably horrified by the civilian casualties, they feel the global response lacks the urgency and decisiveness it demonstrates in other conflicts. The repeated vetoes of UN Security Council resolutions aimed at halting the violence in Gaza highlight this disparity, raising questions about the application of international law and the principle of equal protection for all.
**Host:** Indonesia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Arrmanatha Nasir, addressed the UN General Assembly and drew a stark comparison: over 44,532 lives lost in Gaza, exceeding the populations of seven UN member states. What is the significance of this comparison?
**Dr. Hassan:** Mr. Nasir’s statement underscores the enormity of the human cost in Gaza. By comparing the casualties to entire nations, he aims to shock the international community into recognizing the scale of the tragedy unfolding. This emphasizes that the situation is not just a distant conflict but a humanitarian crisis demanding immediate and decisive action.
**Host:** You mentioned the failure of UN Security Council resolutions. What can be done to bridge this gap and ensure a more equitable and effective response to crises like this?
**Dr. Hassan:** This is a complex issue with no easy solutions.
However, steps towards reform within the UN Security Council are crucial. Examining the veto power structure and exploring avenues for greater inclusivity could be starting points. Alongside this, sustained diplomatic pressure from key players and a united front from nations advocating for a peaceful resolution are essential. Ultimately, the international community must move beyond rhetoric and commit to concrete actions that protect civilians and uphold international law.
**Host:** Dr. Hassan, thank you for sharing your insights with us today. This is a critically important issue deserving our attention and action.
