PARAMARIBO, Suriname, The Suriname government has sought to clarify its position regarding the ongoing war between Israel and the terrorist group Hamas, saying it “favors a two-state solution based on the borders proposed in 1967”.
The United Nations Security Council Resolution 242, adopted on November November, 22is an effort to secure a just and lasting peace in the wake of the Six-Day War, fought primarily between Israel and Egypt, Jordan, and Syria.
The resolution included:
- An Israeli withdrawal from territories occupied in the conflict.
- A just settlement of the refugee problem.
- The termination of all claims or states of belligerency.
Speaking in the National Assembly, President Chandrikapersad “Chan” Santokhi said that a temporary ceasefire is now in place, and he hopes that a peaceful solution will be reached to deal with the situation in Gaza.
“The Republic of Suriname regrets that the conflict between Israel and Hamas has now escalated into a violent act against Palestine, and innocent civilians have been killed on both sides. With the region to which we belong, we have insisted on compliance with international law and particularly international humanitarian law,” Santokhi told legislators.
He said from the start of the new round of conflict on October October 7; mas invaded sections of Israel; Suriname has called for a ceasefire and the provision of space for humanitarian support to the population in Gaza.
“Suriname favors a two-state solution based on the borders proposed in 1967. We welcome the diplomatic efforts of countries in the region and beyond to create stability and seek ways to achieve lasting peace and security,” Santokhi said.
He said that the recent position of the 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM), “to which Suriname has also contributed, expresses the most recent position in strong terms,” he added.
In its statement earlier this month, CARICOM said it is aware of the “catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Gaza that continues to worsen,” expressing its “horror and concern at the mounting death toll on the civilian population, including women and children, particularly in Gaza, but also in other areas of the Occupied Palestinian Territory.”
CARICOM called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the immediate release of all hostages, and their humane treatment at all times in compliance with international law.
It also urges all parties “to immediately and fully comply with their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law; and the immediate, safe, unimpeded access for adequate, sustained humanitarian support throughout Gaza including food, water, medicines, medical care, fuel, and electricity.”
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