Mokhiber’s Resignation Letter Highlights UN’s Handling of Israel-Hamas War
Craig Mokhiber, the Director of the New York Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, has resigned in protest of the UN’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war. In a four-page letter to the UN’s High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, Mokhiber called the attacks on Gaza a “text-book case of genocide.” He argued that the European, ethno-nationalist, settler colonial project in Palestine is entering its final phase, resulting in the destruction of indigenous Palestinian life.
Mokhiber criticized the UN’s approach to the conflict, advocating for a one-state solution and the complete disarmament of Israel. He called for a departure from the failed two-state solution and accused the US, UK, and much of Europe of being complicit in the assault on Gaza. He specifically mentioned their refusal to meet their treaty obligations to ensure respect for the Geneva Conventions and their provision of support to Israel.
Mokhiber’s resignation comes after he was accused of antisemitism and extreme bias against Israel earlier this year. He was deemed unfit to serve in his position due to his violation of duty and lack of neutrality. However, despite Mokhiber’s claims, it is worth noting that the majority of Jews in Israel are Mizrachi Jews, with only about 30 percent being Ashkenazi.
Mokhiber’s resignation letter sheds light on the UN’s failure in Palestine and calls for a new approach that champions justice and human rights. He urges the adoption of a more principled course, one that aligns with the growing anti-apartheid movement supporting equality and human rights for the Palestinian people.
The UN’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war has drawn criticism, with calls for accountability and condemnation of Hamas atrocities. Israel’s ambassador to the UN went as far as wearing a yellow star reminiscent of Holocaust victims, demanding that the Security Council address Hamas’ actions.
In the midst of the conflict, Israeli tanks entered Gaza City, while IDF troops faced resistance in the West Bank. As tensions continue to rise, a UN official has warned that the Gaza Strip is on the brink.
