Belize Calls for Urgent Ceasefire and Justice for Palestinians

The Government of Belize has condemned the rising violence in the Middle East, particularly the impact of Israeli actions causing civilian casualties in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon. Belize calls for an immediate ceasefire and adherence to international law, warning that inaction could lead to regional chaos.

“The weaponising of civilian devices like pagers to cause the indiscriminate slaughter of civilians and the continued Israeli use of selective assassinations threatens to ignite a full-scale conflagration of unimaginable consequences,” said the government in a statement. 

The government described the ongoing cycle of violence as “illegal, immoral and inhumane.” Belize called for Israel to “immediately abide by the decisions of the International Court of Justice,” agree to a ceasefire, allow humanitarian aid into Gaza without obstruction, and lift the siege of Gaza. Additionally, it demanded the “immediate, unconditional release of hostages held by the resistance groups and by the Israeli state.”

The statement also addressed the role of the United Nations Security Council, stating, “There will never be peace in the region until Israel abides by the decisions of the United Nations and fully respects the right of the Palestinian people to full self-determination.” The government called on the Security Council and the international community to implement resolution 10/24 from the UN General Assembly’s 10th Emergency Session on September 18, 2024.