Hope Camp plea to highlight plight of war-affected people

Participants in the 13th Hope Camp, held by the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services last week, have asked world governments and non-governmental organisations to highlight the issues of the war-affected and to work jointly to minimise wars and usher in peace worldwide.

Zakaraiyya Al Taweel, Head of the Palestinian Al Jareeh (The Wounded) Establishment, said the whole world should confront those who kill people and cause them disabilities, wherever these may occur.

"Unfortunately, those who kill are supported and encouraged by some states and groups, instead of being stopped and punished," said Al Taweel, who himself is wheelchair-bound after he was shot by the Israelis in 1988 during the first Intifada.

Al Taweel said that Islam has always called for peace and for protecting human life, particularly during war.

"However, the sublime values of Islam are not being implemented in this regard nowadays, as human rights are violated. All we see in such a civilised world about human rights is mere words, without the least bit of respect for mankind," he said.

He called on NGOs and the public to hold protests against wars all over the world, and call for settling disputes through peaceful means.

"We in the Occupied Territories are witnessing the ugliest form of violation of human rights by the Israelis. We badly need the support of the free world to protect us and help achieve our goals," said Al Taweel.

Ali Obaid Masoud Al Anzi, head of the Saudi delegation to the camp, called upon the UN and other international organisations to work jointly with world governments to settle disputes peacefully, and spare people the serious impacts of war.

"Holding such a camp here in Sharjah is evidence of the commitment of the UAE government to peace, and the great support given by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to promote peace worldwide," said Al Anzi.

Mohammed Hadian Al Harthi, member of the camp's Programmes and Activities Committee, stressed the importance of dialogue and communication between nations to minimise war.

"We call on the international community to force warring parties all over the world to stop killing innocent people and work hard to bring peace worldwide. It is the only way to protect life and enable people to enjoy living together," he said.