(02/11/23) MOGADISHU — In a rousing speech at the National Theatre on Thursday, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre of the Federal Government of Somalia took a firm stand in support of the Palestinian people, voicing strong opposition to the ongoing Israeli occupation and challenging the international community’s silence on the matter.
Flanked by Somali scholars, Mr. Barre unequivocally rejected the classification of Hamas as a terrorist organization, asserting that “Hamas is an organization that is liberating their country, and we must fully support them.” His words resonate with a call for solidarity and a reevaluation of prevailing narratives surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The Prime Minister proceeded to question the lack of action and silence from influential global entities and human rights advocates, highlighting the discrepancy in the world’s response to crises. “Where is the world? Where are the human rights defenders? Where are the children’s rights defenders? Where are the women’s rights defenders? Where have they gone?” he implored, emphasizing the necessity for a united and just stance on the issue of Palestine.
Mr Barre affirmed the Somali government’s steadfast support for Palestine, proclaiming Jerusalem as the capital of the Palestinian state and categorically rejecting any acceptance of Israeli occupation. “It’s incumbent upon us not to forget what is happening in Palestine,” he stated, calling for support of the Palestinian cause, adherence to international law, and the pursuit of a two-state solution, with Jerusalem serving as the capital of the Palestinian state. “We will never give up. The Muslim people should pray for our brothers in Palestine,” he urged.
In concluding his speech, the Prime Minister addressed the turmoil within Islamic countries, advocating for unity and resistance against divisive forces. He reiterated Somalia’s unwavering stance, declaring, “We do not accept the label of terrorism on Hamas. We stand together.”
Mr. Barre’s compelling words reflect Somalia’s strong commitment to the Palestinian cause and challenge the global community to break its silence, standing in solidarity with the Palestinian people in their pursuit of justice and self-determination.
Halqabsi News
