Geneva, Switzerland (BERITAPOLITIK.ONLINE) — In a powerful address during the 148th session of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva, Switzerland, Chairwoman of the Indonesian Parliament, Puan Maharani, vehemently denounced the escalating violence inflicted by the Israeli forces upon the people of Gaza, Palestine.
Expressing her deep concern, Puan highlighted the intensified attacks by Israel on the Gaza populace, urging global parliamentary leaders to break their silence and take decisive action against these atrocities.
“How many more lives must be lost before the international community springs into action? Will we remain silent spectators?” questioned Puan in a statement released in Jakarta on Monday (March 25, 2024).
She underscored the irony of the ongoing bloodshed in Gaza amidst the holy month of Ramadan, emphasizing that the values of peace and tranquility were being overshadowed by relentless violence.
“Murder, bloodshed, and bombings by Israel continue unabated in Gaza. This is an unspeakable cruelty that cannot be justified in any manner,” she declared.
Puan emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire, stressing that the world cannot turn a blind eye to the suffering of innocent civilians. She called upon major global powers to leverage their influence to halt the violence in the Middle East and uphold humanity, thereby preventing further escalation of hostilities.
“In this critical juncture, an immediate ceasefire is imperative. I urge all parties involved to ensure safe humanitarian access and full respect for international humanitarian law,” she urged.
In addition to addressing the situation in Gaza, Puan reiterated the necessity of peace in Ukraine and various other conflict-ridden nations, including Yemen and Myanmar. She asserted that peace is the cornerstone of progress for any nation.
“To achieve everlasting peace anywhere, the international community, especially major nations, must exert pressure on conflicting parties to come to the negotiation table,” she emphasized.
Puan emphasized the pivotal role of parliaments in fostering global peace and security, asserting that through their legislative powers, parliaments can enact laws safeguarding the rights of every individual, including women, children, and persons with disabilities. She also highlighted the importance of inter-parliamentary diplomacy and education in promoting a culture of peace.
As Puan Maharani’s impassioned plea resonated through the halls of the IPU summit, her call for collective action reverberated, emphasizing the imperative of solidarity in the pursuit of peace and justice on a global scale.
