Amnesty International IoM demonstrate at Government Conference

Lobbying group calling on the government to 'send a much stronger message'

A group of Manx lobbyists has this morning (23 September) held a demonstration at the Isle of Man Government Conference.

Amnesty International Isle of Man is calling on the government to 'send a much stronger message' about its concerns 'regarding UK arms sales, military training, surveillance assistance, lack of sanctions and trade restrictions'.

Last week, for the first time, a commission established by the United Nations concluded Israel is committing genocide in Gaza.

The report claimed "it is clear that there is an intent to destroy the Palestinians" in the enclave.

Israel denies the claim - accusing the organisation of being biased.

In the days since, countries including the UK, Australia, Canada, Portugal, and now France have officially recognised a state of Palestine.

In a new statement, Amnesty International Isle of Man says: "Countries that have recognised Palestinian statehood now have obligations to respect the political integrity of the state of Palestine under international law. 

"All states have an obligation to do nothing to assist Israel in its unlawful presence in the state of Palestine, and so they must do everything they can to change their relationship with Israel, including bringing to bear the 'full raft of sanctions' imposed on a state perpetrating an aggression. 

"The same measures taken against Russia since its invasion of Ukraine would also be warranted in the case of Israel, which the International Court of Justice has found to be occupying Palestinian territory unlawfully. 

"The recognition of Palestinian statehood also confers on it 'an inherent right to self-defence to Israel’s illegal presence in its territory'."

It added: "As we have delegated these responsibilities to the UK Government, we need to send a much stronger message about our concerns regarding UK arms sales, military training, surveillance assistance, lack of sanctions and trade restrictions to a country that is committing genocide and ethnic cleansing of a state we recognise.

"For two years, our government has aligned us fully with UK policy which has led to allegations from highly respected international organisations, charities and NGOs of complicity in these abhorrent war crimes and crimes against humanity. 

"If not now, when is the Isle of Man going to express grave concern that, by proxy, we are also considered to be in breach of international laws and treaties?"

Earlier this month, Amnesty International Isle of Man vowed to host a 'series of demonstrations at key locations and events over the coming month'.

Over the weekend (Saturday 20 September), it held a demonstration at Ronaldsway Aircraft Company (RLC Group).

The group alleges the factory manufactures parts for F-35 fighter planes, which are used by Israel in the conflict.

And on 15 September, they were outside the Gaiety Theatre 'in solidarity with' Paloma Faith who was the guest at this year's Isle of Man Arts Council's Annual Lecture.

Manx Radio has approached government for comment.