‘Shameful’: Human Rights group slam Fiji’s Jerusalem embassy opening

The Fiji NGO Coalition on Human Rights (NGOCHR) has condemned the opening of Fiji’s new embassy in Israel, describing it as a shameful act that abandons the country’s principles on human rights.

The embassy was officially opened this week in Jerusalem, with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka accompanied by Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua and Information Minister Lynda Tabuya.

The NGOCHR condemned the Fijian delegation for "standing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged war crimes, including starvation as a method of warfare and crimes against humanity. An arrest warrant was issued for Netanyahu on 21 November 2024."

NGOCHR Chair Shamima Ali said the government’s actions showed disregard for justice and peace.

“We are ashamed of our government for abandoning the principles of human rights, justice, peace, freedom, and human dignity. But we must not be our government. We must stand up and believe in humanity, justice, and the inalienable rights of every individual,” she said.

Ali added that the image of “a wanted war criminal standing next to a coup perpetrator must haunt all of us,” saying Fiji’s stance contradicts the “Ocean of Peace” concept often championed by the Prime Minister.

She said the government’s response to the war in Gaza would set a precedent for how Fiji handles future crises and conflicts.

“The Government must stop grandstanding on human rights while supporting rogue global leaders. Fiji should instead join the many countries who have upheld the ICC ruling against Netanyahu,” Ali said.

The NGOCHR said more than 65,000 people have been killed in Gaza, with over 165,000 injured, and that starvation was being used as a weapon against children.

“No politician in Fiji can claim ignorance of what is happening. The facts are clear, and so is international law,” Ali said.

The NGOCHR urged Fijians to take a stand, saying “history will judge how we respond as Fijians to this moment. Our rich cultural heritage teaches us to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult. Silence is not an option.”