The 60th Session of the Human Rights Council

8 September 2025 - 8 October 2025

Item 2 & 7: Presentation of High Commissioner report on implementation of 31/36, General Debate item 7

(29th of September)

Statement of International Organization for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination

Delivered by Haliema Sharfeddine

Thank you,

What is happening in Gaza is neither a “conflict” nor “complicated”. It is a genocide, and the world is watching it in real time. The injustice Palestinians face did not start 2 years but 78 years ago. What is the point recognizing a State that is soon to be gone, while the military support still continues.

It is shameful that those providing Israel with cover, through weapons and through words, are seated among us today. How many red lines must be crossed before plain truth is spoken and effective measures are taken? And to the governments that proclaim “Never Again” as a moral compass: that pledge should go for all, or it is just empty.

Children are starving, families are burning, hospitals are rubble, and yet we debate, we hesitate, we justify. Recognition without action is theatre. What matters is protection and accountability now.

We therefore urge this Council and all Member States to:

-Enforce ICJ measures, halt military operations.

-Stop arms, fuel, and military transfers enabling violations.

-Facilitate large-scale humanitarian aid.

-Support investigations and hold perpetrators accountable.

-Sanction those complicit in these atrocities.

Palestine is not waiting to be validated; its people exist and insist on their freedom. Our task is not only to congratulate late changes, it is to stop the killing and uphold the law. Too often, the world acts only after it is too late. Act before it’s another massacre we regret forever.

Thank you.​​