The statement, supported by more than 65 community groups, was crafted by the Arab Australian Federation “in response to the incessant violations by Israel of the Palestinian people’s human, political, economic and national rights under international law, including their right to self-determination and nationhood”.
The move followed a motion by Cr Christopher Cahill calling for the council’s support of the statement.
He says the Israeli occupation of Palestine has lasted more than 50 years and is a concern to residents of Canterbury Bankstown, of diverse faiths and backgrounds.
“The statement quotes nonviolent means and international law to achieve a just and lasting peace between the parties,” Cr Cahill said.
“There is nothing controversial or unreasonable in these principles whether examined individually, or in combination. “They do not take an extreme position; they are simply a plea for very basic level of fairness and human rights for all.”
President of the Arab Australian Federation (AAF), Eddie Zananiri, commended the council on its endorsement of the statement.
Speaking to a packed gallery, Mr Zananiri said that in addition to broadly identifying some serious abuses suffered by the Palestinian people, this statement upholds and encourages advocacy for Palestine and for the lives of Palestinians.
He reiterated the Federation’s “vehement opposition to all forms of racism, prejudice and discrimination including anti-Palestinianism, Islamophobia and anti-Semitism”.
Mayor Khal Asfour said the council’s decision addressed “a long-standing issue that has been a sore point for many in our community”.
“It was imperative the council showed leadership and provided space for concerned residents to speak their mind on the rights of the Palestinian people,” he said.
