Israel’s Response To OHCHR’s Baseless Allegations
Israeli Missions Around The World Geneva News & Events Media Statements Israel’s Response To OHCHR’s Baseless Allegations

Israel’s Response to OHCHR’s Baseless Allegations

  •   PRESS RELEASE
  • 12/20/2017
  •  
     
    GENEVA (20 December 2017)

    ​Israel regrets the statement issued by the OHCHR yesterday (19 December) following clashes between violent Palestinian rioters and IDF soldiers which resulted with the death of Mr. Abu Thuraya.​
     
    Contrary to what is claimed in the press release, these Palestinian rioters did not limit themselves to singing songs and waving flags, but rather hurled rocks, burned tires and explosive devices towards IDF troops, with the aim of harming soldiers and destroying security infrastructures.

    As was published by the IDF’s spokesperson in the case of Mr. Abu Thuraya, a preliminary investigation conducted by the IDF points to the fact that no live fire was aimed at him. There are no precise details or conclusions regarding Abu Thuraya’s injuries and in fact it is impossible to determine whether he was indeed injured and killed by IDF fire. Moreover, Israel requested specific evidence from the Palestinians but has not received any response so far. 

    While acknowledging this initial investigation, the High Commissioner unfortunately jumps into hasty and irresponsible conclusions. Israeli security forces operate with restraints and uphold the highest standards of professional conduct, while facing violence fueled by hatred. The OHCHR once more spreads baseless allegations bashing Israel, and fails to call on the Palestinians to cooperate and supply the additional necessary information as should be expected in such cases. 

    By making a direct link between these events of Palestinian violence to the legitimate U.S. announcement on Jerusalem, the High Commissioner justifies the rioters and adds fuel to the current wave of violence.  In such a fragile situation the High Commissioner is expected to adopt a responsible and balanced approach and to do his utmost to lower the flames. 

    Israel deplores the continuous one-sided and discriminatory position taken by the OHCHR towards Israel.

    END.
    For more information, please contact publicdiplomacy@geneva.mfa.gov.il