Right to Life and Safety of Civilians in Gaza Seriously Violated

During Israeli air attacks against the ruling Hamas government in Gaza Strip, the lives, safety, and personal property of Gaza residents is under serious threat and hundreds of innocent civilians have been killed.

Accordingly, we the representatives of non-governmental organizations in the Asia-Pacific region, emphasize the need for restraint and for respect for international humanitarian standards during time of war, that non-combatants must not be targeted and must be protected. By condemning the atrocities committed against civilians during these air strikes, we demand from all sides engaged in armed activities, particularly the Israeli government, the neighboring states, and relevant international organizations that:

1) By declaring an immediate cease fire, lay the grounds for a lasting peace to guarantee the residents of Gaza their fundamental human rights;

2) Put an immediate end to the killing of civilians and attacks on civilian targets on all sides;

3) Recognize the principle of differentiating between civilians and combatants and do not use civilian installations for military purposes;

4)Use all available means to help and assist victims and those injured and provide immediate medical treatment for them away from the zone of conflict;

5) Do not obstruct delivery of humanitarian assistant, particularly food and medical supplies, into the Gaza Strip;

6) Respect all your international obligations under Geneva Conventions and international standards on laws of war during this conflict