The Centre of Indian Trade Unions(CITU) welcomes the recent ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, bringing an end to the 15th months long genocidal war on Gaza resulting in more than 46 thousands deaths of innocent Palestinians mostly women and children. CITU hopes this ceasefire will pave the way for a lasting peace and end to the Israeli occupation and lead to a comprehensive reconstruction of devastated Palestinian territories. Thousands of lives could have been saved and much destruction avoided if a ceasefire could have been achieved much earlier, which was possible.
While welcoming the ceasefire agreement CITU vehemently condemns the rouge Israeli state for most brutal most inhuman genocidal war on Gaza which has resulted in the loss of numerous lives, injuries and widespread destruction. It is very shocking to note that Israel intensified strikes on Gaza hours after the ceasefire agreement was announced, heavy Israeli bombardment killed 32 people late on Wednesday, the strikes continued early on Thursday and destroyed houses in Rafah in southern Gaza, it seems, Israel would not adhere to the ceasefire agreement. The International Community must exert pressure on Israel for strictly adhering the ceasefire deal. The ICJ should continue with its hearing on the genocidal actions of Israel and act upon it.
CITU demands immediate withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied Palestinian territories and immediate humanitarian aid and assistance must be facilitated to the people of Gaza. CITU demands immediate lifting of the blockade on Gaza, ensuring free movement of people and goods. CITU also demands investigations and prosecution of Israeli war criminals.
CITU one again appeals to the International community to intervene and ensure that Israel respects the international law and ceasefire deal. CITU reiterates its unflinching solidarity and support to the Palestinian people and CITU firmly supports Palestinian people’s right to self-defence against occupation. CITU demands a permanent end to the Zionist occupation and a free Palestine and recognition of Palestinian state on the basis of UNSC resolution for two nation solution.
Issued by
Tapan Sen
General Secretary
