UN High Commissioner Resigns, Accuses UN of Failing to Prevent Palestinian Genocide
The United Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Human Rights, Craig Mokhiber, has resigned, citing the international organization’s failure to prevent what he describes as genocide in Palestine. Mokhiber tendered his resignation letter on Saturday, expressing deep concerns about the ongoing situation in the region.
In his letter, Mokhiber stated that the mass killings of the Palestinian people, rooted in an ethno-nationalist colonial-settler ideology, represent a continuation of decades of persecution and systematic cleansing. He went on to label it as a case of genocide, which has sparked strong reactions within the international community.
Taking to social media platform, Mokhiber voiced his concerns and attributed the genocide in Gaza to the impunity granted to Israel by the United States and Western governments over the years. He also highlighted the decades-long dehumanization of the Palestinian people by Western corporate media. Mokhiber’s resignation letter included a controversial call for the establishment of a single, democratic, secular state in the entire historical Palestine region to ensure equal rights for Christians, Muslims, and Jews. He emphasized the need to dismantle racist groups, colonial settlement projects, and apartheid throughout the country.
Mokhiber criticized Western countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, for arming Israel during the conflict and failing to fulfill their obligations under the Geneva Conventions. However, it’s important to note that former U.S. presidential candidate Hillary Clinton opposed a Gaza ceasefire, arguing that those who call for it do not understand Hamas, and that it would only benefit the group by allowing them to build up their armaments during the pause. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also rejected a ceasefire but expressed support for a specific pause to allow humanitarian aid.
Craig Mokhiber, who has been associated with the United Nations since 1992, has been actively involved in advocating for the protection of Palestinian civilians during the ongoing Hamas-Israel conflict. He has faced criticism from pro-Israel groups for his statements on social media, frequently expressing support for the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement and referring to Israel’s actions as apartheid.
Confirming Mokhiber’s resignation, a spokesperson for the United Nations clarified that his resignation letter reflects his personal views. However, it is worth noting that Mokhiber’s departure raises concerns about the UN’s role in addressing the situation in Palestine and its ability to prevent further violence and suffering.
In conclusion, Craig Mokhiber’s resignation as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights highlights his deep concerns about the failure to prevent what he deems as genocide in Palestine. His strong words have resonated across the international community, attracting support as well as controversy. With Mokhiber’s departure, the UN faces scrutiny regarding its effectiveness in resolving the conflict and protecting Palestinian civilians. The situation in Palestine remains a pressing issue that requires immediate attention and a concerted global effort to achieve a just and peaceful resolution.
