Tarique Rahman urges global action to halt 'Israeli genocide' in Gaza

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has issued a strong appeal to the international community to take urgent and decisive measures to stop what he described as an “Israeli genocide” against Palestinians in Gaza.

In a statement posted on his verified Facebook page early Wednesday, the exiled political leader condemned the ongoing violence and called for immediate intervention grounded in international law and humanitarian principles.

“The world must now take immediate action to take genuine steps enshrined in international law and human morality against Israeli genocide,” Tarique stated.

He urged world powers to leverage all available political, economic, and diplomatic channels to push for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, and to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid into the besieged Gaza Strip.

Referring to the United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (1948), Tarique argued that Israel's actions in Gaza meet the legal definition of genocide — “the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group.”

He cited a recent report by a United Nations commission, which he said directly attributes responsibility for the humanitarian crisis and mass casualties in Gaza to the Israeli government.

“No more excuses or hiding behind propaganda can continue,” he said. “History teaches us many lessons about acting morally and bravely, even when it may not be the easiest path. We cannot stand by when the very existence of Palestinians is at risk.”

Tarique also called on Bangladeshis worldwide to raise their voices in solidarity with the Palestinian people and to demand that their national leaders take a firm stance against what he described as “brutal destruction by Israel.”

“States have the tools to make a difference. They always do,” he added. “This is a moment where global leadership is needed more than ever.”