GENEVA: The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on Friday urged all parties to place human rights at the center of efforts to rebuild Gaza and establish a lasting peace, emphasizing that the ongoing ceasefire should serve as a foundation for sustainable security and stability.
Volker Turk said that while there was widespread relief at signs of an end to the war and humanitarian suffering, significant work remained to ensure lasting peace, justice and accountability for serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law over the past two years.
He called for the full inclusion of all Palestinians in decision-making processes, regardless of age, gender or disability, and for the restoration of access to food, clean water, housing, medical care and education, alongside the protection of children’s rights to play and safety.
Turk also stressed that human rights must guide political efforts and the pursuit of a two-state solution in line with UN Security Council resolutions, General Assembly mandates, Human Rights Council recommendations, the New York Declaration and relevant International Court of Justice advisory opinions.
He underscored the importance of unrestricted access for humanitarian aid, international staff, journalists, protection workers and human rights observers, ensuring that they can operate freely throughout Gaza.
