PRIME Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says concerns over alleged human rights violations involving Israel are “none of our business”.
He made the comment when asked how Fiji would balance its “Ocean of Peace” policy with the opening of Israel’s embassy in Suva, amid continuing international concern over Israel’s actions in Gaza, the occupied Palestinian territory and Lebanon.
“That is none of our business,” he said.
“We deal with them at diplomatic level. We are dealing with members of the United Nations and setting up and allowing them to set up their embassies here.”
Mr Rabuka said the human rights issues raised against Israel were being handled through international mechanisms, and Fiji would engage on those matters through its representatives at the United Nations.
“The opening of the embassy here in Suva marks a new era in Fiji’s relations, one that is practical, forward-looking and anchored in common faith and friendship.”
International concern has included findings and warnings from United Nations bodies over civilian deaths, the humanitarian situation in Gaza, settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank, and allegations of serious violations of international law.
The International Court of Justice is also hearing South Africa’s case against Israel under the Genocide Convention, with the court previously ordering provisional measures while the case continues.
