Further escalating the existing tensions, the Israeli Government has taken a decision to expel President Yasser Arafat from the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT) on Thursday 11 September 2003.
Al Mezan Center for Human Rights gravely condemns this illicit decision, which constitutes yet another transgression by Israel of its obligations under international law.
Israel’s decision is illegitimate and lacks legal value in that it is prohibited by international law for an occupying power to expel civilians, not to mention the legitimate and elected president of the Palestinian National Authority.
Furthermore, Mr.
Arafat’s legitimacy is not only generated from a long history of striving to liberate the OPT from the occupation, but also from his public, legal and international support as an elected president.
As a result, Israel’s decision threatens international peace and security, and bodes dramatic consequences in the OPT and the entire area.
Al Mezan reminds that Israel’s unrelenting criminal actions in the OPT have been partly prompted by the inaction of the international community in response to perpetrated crimes, which has de facto placed the State of Israel above the law.
As such, Al Mezan calls upon the international community to intervene immediately and take the necessary measures to prevent Israel from expelling President Arafat, in favor of peace, security and stability in the region.
END