Fiji has affirmed its solidarity with Israel and commitments to global peace in the midst of ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

And the Government has also cleared the air on its stance that was demonstrated by its recent vote in support of the Canadian amendment and against the recent UN resolution urging a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

According to Government, the amendment intends to address actual ground realities and correct factual omissions, identify and condemn Hamas for initiating the crisis, holding hostages, and using them and civilians as human shields since (the) October 7, 2023, terrorist attack.

“These facts are essential to understanding the reality of the situation that will inform the next steps in seeking a meaningful solution. The final UN resolution did not mention these facts hence Fiji voted against it,” the Government stated.

“Fiji’s intent in voting for the amendment was to advocate against all acts of terror, show support for the hostages and innocent civilians. However the amendment was defeated.

“Fiji, along with the United States and 12 other nations, firmly support Israel’s right to defend itself and, in this particular case, to counter Hamas, a terrorist organisation.

“The 14 nations highlight the fact that Hamas has used civilians as human shields, and in manipulating global opinion against Israel.”

Fiji is among 14 countries, including the United States, Austria, Croatia, Czechia, Guatemala, Hungary, Israel, the Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, and Tonga, that voted against the resolution drafted by the Arab nations.