MANILA, Philippines — Deputy Minority Leader and Basilan Representative Mujiv Hataman has condemned in the strongest terms the latest Israeli attacks on Gaza, which have left scores of civilians dead, including women and children, amid the observance of the Holy Month of Ramadan.
In a statement released Thursday, Hataman described the bombings as “brutal assaults” that show “complete disregard for human life,” as reports and images continue to surface of families buried under rubble and parents cradling lifeless children.
“This is not war; this is a massacre of the innocent,” Hataman said. “The heart of every Muslim around the world is shattered by the images coming out of Gaza.”
Despite an ongoing ceasefire, Israel has pressed on with what Hataman called “indiscriminate bombings,” exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the besieged Palestinian territory. He stressed that Ramadan is meant to be a time of reflection and peace for Muslims worldwide, making the timing of the attacks even more painful and unjust.
Hataman also issued a call to the international community, urging governments, especially those who advocate for human rights, to act decisively.
“Silence in the face of genocide is complicity,” he warned. “The Philippines, along with other nations, must call for an immediate end to these attacks, hold Israel accountable, and ensure that humanitarian aid reaches Gaza.”
Hataman also appealed to his fellow lawmakers to take a stand against what he described as atrocities. He said the world cannot advocate for peace while allowing indiscriminate bombings to wipe out entire neighborhoods.
“To my fellow lawmakers, I urge you to stand on the right side of history,” Hataman said. “No child should ever have to die in the arms of a desperate parent. The people of Gaza deserve justice, they deserve peace, and they deserve to live free from the horrors of war and occupation.”
The statement comes as global outrage grows over the escalating violence in Gaza, which has claimed hundreds of lives and displaced thousands of residents.