In a historic first, Members of Parliament (MPs) on Tuesday unanimously endorsed an adjournment motion presented by SJB MP Imthiaz Bakeer Markar concerning the humanitarian crisis in Palestine. During the debate, Bakeer Markar emphasized that the issue transcends Palestine and touches upon broader themes of democracy, human rights, social injustice, expansionism, and neo-colonial strategies.
MPs voiced concerns over the atrocities committed by Israel, including killings and land grabs, leading to the deprivation of Palestinian citizenship rights. They highlighted the limitations of international bodies like the United Nations and the Human Rights Commission in holding Israel accountable due to powerful countries' influence and interventions.
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa and Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa emphasized their commitment to standing with Palestine and the urgent need for a resolution. They called for mutual acceptance and meaningful discussions as the key to addressing the conflict.
NPP MP Vijitha Herath joined in expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people, urging President Ranil Wickremesinghe to issue an official statement condemning Israel's actions, especially the recent attack on the Jenin refugee camp. He also called for pressuring the UN to pass a security council proposal to halt Israeli actions.
Former President Maithripala Sirisena, MPs Rauff Hakeem, Vasudeva Nanayakkara, Gajendrakumar Ponnambalam, Mohammed Muzammil, and others participated in the debate, expressing similar sentiments. Ambassadors and officials from various High Commissions and Embassies were also present during the discussion.
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