The Palestinian Ambassador to Ghana, His Excellency Abdulfata Ahmed Khalil Alsattari, delivered a powerful speech at a recent Ambassadors’ Forum, condemning the ongoing occupation and bombing of Gaza by Israel. The forum brought together several high-ranking diplomats to express solidarity with the Palestinian people amid the escalating conflict.

Background

Ambassador Alsattari outlined the devastating toll of the conflict in Gaza, which has been under continuous bombing since October 7, 2023. Over 39,699 people have been killed, including more than 50,000 women and 11,000 children. The relentless airstrikes have also claimed the lives of 160 journalists, doctors, nurses, and other civilians. Tragically, around 12,000 women and children remain trapped under the rubble, with their fates unknown. Since the escalation began, over 91,722 people have been injured, with infrastructure including schools, hospitals, and roads severely damaged. The region now faces severe shortages of water, food, and electricity.

The Ambassador emphasized that this conflict is not new but part of a longer struggle that dates back to 1947. He highlighted the suffering endured by Palestinians under Israeli occupation, with over 154,000 Palestinians killed since 1948 and millions more displaced or imprisoned.

Conflict Beyond Hamas

Ambassador Alsattari clarified that the conflict extends beyond the actions of Hamas, stressing that the majority of those killed, including thousands of women and children, are not affiliated with the group. He called for an end to the occupation and urged Israel to engage in dialogue based on the two-state solution, which he stated Israel has consistently rejected. He also brought attention to the dire situation of Palestinian prisoners, whose numbers have surged to 10,000 since October 7, with reports of human rights abuses, including rape and torture.

Voices of Solidarity

The forum also saw strong statements from other diplomats. The High Commissioner of Pakistan, Her Excellency Ms. Ayesha Farhat, reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for Palestine’s right to self-determination. She condemned the assassination of Hamas’ political bureau chief and called for an immediate ceasefire and accountability for war crimes committed by Israeli forces. Ms. Farhat also mentioned Pakistan’s active role in the OIC Executive Committee meeting on August 7, 2024, where strong condemnation of Israel’s actions was expressed.

Algerian Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Mr. Mourad Louhadia, thanked Ambassador Alsattari for raising awareness about the suffering of Palestinians. He denounced the ongoing ethnic cleansing in Gaza and highlighted Algeria’s long-standing support for Palestinian rights. Ambassador Louhadia noted that Gaza is facing a large-scale humanitarian catastrophe exacerbated by the Israeli military escalation. He reiterated Algeria’s commitment to Palestinian self-determination and its active role in the UN Security Council, where Algeria has pushed for resolutions demanding a ceasefire and Palestinian membership in the UN.

He concluded by quoting Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, stating, “The freedom of independent nations is meaningless unless it is linked to the total liberation of the Palestinian people.”

Namibian High Commissioner, Her Excellency Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, expressed her deep solidarity with the Palestinian people, drawing parallels between their struggle and Namibia’s own fight against apartheid. She expressed hope that Palestine would eventually achieve freedom and independence, emphasizing that no occupation can last forever.

Challenges Ahead

During the forum, media representatives questioned the divisions among Arab states, which have complicated efforts to form a united front against the conflict. Ambassador Alsattari acknowledged these challenges but remained optimistic that Palestine would eventually be free, expressing gratitude to Arab nations that have supported the Palestinian cause since the beginning of the struggle.

The forum served as a strong platform for diplomatic voices advocating for peace, justice, and the rights of the Palestinian people in the face of ongoing conflict and occupation.