The ongoing genocide carried out by Israel against Palestinians in Gaza is generating social and political repercussions worldwide. Millions of humanitarian organisations, NGOs, movements, and private citizens have already expressed their outrage at what is unfolding before everyone’s eyes, and their support for the civilians who continue to suffer and die.

Nevertheless, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the United States Department of the Treasury has imposed sanctions on key Palestinian human rights organisations: Al-Haq, Al Mezan Center for Human Rights, and the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights, whose continuous advocacy work exposes Israel’s persistent violations of international law. The Palestinian organisation Addameer has suffered the same fate.

The severity of this measure risks further weakening the statutes of an already repeatedly violated international law. Its repercussions could lead to catastrophic consequences, with effects felt across the globe.

In response, 35 organisations, including Pax Christi International, have endorsed a Joint Statement calling on the United States to undertake urgent and coordinated global action, to show public solidarity and protect the targeted organisations, and to reaffirm their commitment to the international human rights system.

Specifically, the demands focus on:

   🔹 protecting the staff and activities of Palestinian NGOs;

   🔹 countering the US sanctions (e.g. through the EU Blocking Statute);

   🔹 imposing pressure and sanctions on Israel (arms embargo, halting projects that sustain the occupation, etc.).

Civil society and social movements are also urged to mobilise in solidarity with Palestinians and to demand justice.

Read the Joint Statement here