Amnesty International warns of human rights risks in Israeli elections

Amnesty International’s Director of Global Research, Advocacy and Policy, Erika Guevara Rosas, stated that Palestinians expect little positive change regarding human rights following the upcoming Israeli parliamentary elections. Rosas noted that election campaigns have been characterized by anti-Palestinian rhetoric and threats to escalate violations that may constitute international crimes for political gain.

The organization highlighted ongoing issues including the expansion of the occupation in the West Bank, the displacement of Palestinians in East Jerusalem, and continued violence in the Gaza Strip. Rosas also pointed to humanitarian concerns in Gaza, such as restrictions on commercial goods and engine oils, which exacerbate the deteriorating health situation and food security.

While Palestinians, Lebanese, and Syrians lack the right to vote in these elections, Amnesty International emphasized that millions will be directly affected by the results. The organization called on influential nations to use diplomatic and economic pressure, including suspending the EU-Israel partnership agreement and imposing arms embargoes, to prevent support for the illegal occupation.