The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates has strongly denounced Paraguay’s decision to transfer its embassy to Jerusalem, describing it as a flagrant violation of international law and United Nations (UN) resolutions. The ministry stated that this move disregards the international consensus rejecting Israel’s de facto occupation of Jerusalem as its capital and the city’s altered legal and political status.
The ministry accused Paraguay of standing on the “wrong side of history” and rewarding Israel for alleged continued acts of genocide against the Palestinian people. By taking this step, the Paraguayan government has contradicted its earlier recognition of the State of Palestine, including East Jerusalem as its capital, announced on January 28, 2011.
Contradiction with International Law and UN Resolutions
The ministry emphasized that Paraguay’s decision is inconsistent with numerous international frameworks, including UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions, as well as the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The ICJ has previously outlined the legal consequences of Israeli practices and policies in the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem.
This step, the ministry argued, disregards not only the historical rights of Palestinians but also undermines Paraguay’s previously stated position in support of a two-state solution.
Call for Paraguay to Rescind the Decision
The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called on Paraguay’s President to reverse this “dangerous decision” and align his country’s policies with international law and historical precedents. The ministry underscored that the decision holds Paraguay accountable and warned that the move risks undermining its international reputation and historical solidarity with struggles for justice and peace, particularly those rooted in Latin America’s own fight against colonialism and oppression.
The ministry also highlighted that the move disregards the legacy of anti-colonial struggles in Latin America and betrays values such as justice, peace, and resistance to oppression. By doing so, Paraguay jeopardizes its standing at both the regional and global levels.
Plans for Diplomatic and Legal Action
In response to the embassy transfer, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced plans to escalate its diplomatic, legal, and political efforts. These measures aim to prevent any changes to Jerusalem’s status and protect the historical, legal, and political rights of Palestinians. The ministry pledged to engage with international organizations and allies to counter Paraguay’s decision and address its implications.
Implications for Regional Stability
The ministry also warned of broader consequences for regional and international stability. The decision, it said, could encourage other countries to follow suit, further undermining efforts to achieve a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
A Step Against Historical Justice
The ministry reiterated its disapproval of what it described as Paraguay’s betrayal of historical justice, emphasizing that Latin American nations have historically supported decolonization movements and the principles of justice and peace. The embassy transfer, the ministry argued, runs counter to this tradition and damages Paraguay’s international credibility.
As tensions rise over this controversial decision, the Palestinian leadership has vowed to continue its diplomatic struggle to protect Jerusalem’s status and advocate for the rights of its people.
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