An urgent proposal for a national campaign to provide humanitarian support to the people of Gaza has been unanimously approved by MPs yesterday.
The proposal, spearheaded by Parliament’s second deputy speaker Ahmed Qarata alongside four other MPs, aims to mobilise nationwide efforts to deliver aid to Palestinians returning to their homes following an Israeli bombardment.
Mr Ahmed Qarata stressed that the move is a show of unity and solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Additionally, members also unanimously approved another urgent motion, signed by all 40 MPs, to issue a statement condemning recent remarks by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump regarding the displacement of Palestinians.
Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam was deputised to issue the statement on behalf of Parliament.
During the session, MPs underscored the need for immediate action to provide relief to Gaza. The national campaign is expected to include fundraising efforts, medical aid shipments and diplomatic appeals to ensure continued support for Palestinians.
MP Abdulwahid Qarata, one of the signatories of the proposal and nephew of the second deputy speaker, stressed Bahrain’s unwavering support for the people of Gaza and the Palestinian cause.
“This is not just a humanitarian obligation; it is a moral and religious duty for us to stand by our Palestinian brothers and sisters,” he said. “Gaza is bleeding and the world must not turn a blind eye to the suffering of innocent civilians who are being subjected to war crimes and collective punishment,” he added.
“The Bahraini Parliament’s move follows growing public outrage in the region over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. It comes as aid organisations have warned of severe shortages of medical supplies, food and clean water.”
He pointed out that this campaign is not just about financial aid. “It is about showing Palestinians that they are not alone,” he said. “We must ensure their voices are heard, their suffering is acknowledged and their rights are defended.”
Mr Abdulwahid Qarata condemned comments made by Netanyahu and Trump regarding plans to displace Palestinians from Gaza.
Netanyahu’s remarks about Saudi Arabia and Trump’s suggestions to relocate Palestinians to Jordan and Egypt were met with fierce criticism. “These statements are dangerous and unacceptable,” said Mr Abdulwahid Qarata during the session yesterday. “The idea of displacing Palestinians is a violation of international law and a direct attack on their right to their homeland. No country should be forced to bear the burden of Israel’s colonial ambitions.”
Mr Abdulwahid Qarata further stressed that any forced displacement of Palestinians would set a dangerous precedent and lead to further instability in the region.
“Palestinians have suffered displacement for more than 75 years. To suggest uprooting them again is an insult to their struggle and their sacrifices,” he said.
“We in Bahrain reject these proposals in the strongest terms and call on the international community to do the same.”
Parliament’s official statement, to be issued by Mr Al Musallam, is expected to reflect Bahrain’s strong opposition to any plans that undermine Palestinian sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Bahrain has long been a vocal advocate for the Palestinian cause, consistently supporting initiatives at the Arab League and the United Nations that call for Palestinian statehood and an end to Israeli occupation.
In recent months, Bahraini officials and civil society groups have intensified their calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and unrestricted humanitarian access to the besieged enclave.
Mr Abdulwahid Qarata reaffirmed that Bahrain’s stance remains steadfast. “Palestine is not just an issue for Arabs or Muslims; it is an issue for all of humanity,” he said. “We will continue to stand with our Palestinian brothers and sisters until justice is served, their rights are restored and they can live in dignity in their own land.”
With the proposal for the national campaign approved, the Cabinet is expected to work on preparations to begin immediately in co-ordination between government agencies, charities and international humanitarian organisations.
MPs have urged citizens and residents to contribute in whatever capacity they can to support the people of Gaza.
Also unanimously approved is the issuance of a statement on the National Action Charter 24th anniversary under another urgent proposal presented by 31 MPs.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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