RAMALLAH, Wednesday, February 02, 2022 – President Mahmoud Abbas received this evening, at the presidential headquarters in Ramallah, a delegation from Amnesty International headed by the organization’s Secretary-General, Agnes Callamard.

During the meeting, Callamard briefed President Abbas on Amnesty International’s newly released comprehensive report titled “Israel’s Apartheid against Palestinians: Cruel System of Domination and Crime against Humanity.”

President Abbas expressed his appreciation for the significant efforts made by Amnesty International over the years to uncover the truth. He affirmed that the State of Palestine will follow up with countries and international organizations around the world to clarify the report’s findings and work towards implementing measures that protect the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, end the occupation of the land of the State of Palestine, and enable the Palestinian people to secure their freedom and independence.

For her part, Callamard said that the delegation was invited by President Abbas to present and discuss the findings of the report, noting that an in-depth exchange took place regarding Amnesty’s work to end apartheid.

She added that Israel has refused to engage in any discussion about the report. Nevertheless, Amnesty International will continue its efforts to expose the crime of apartheid and advocate for accountability.

Regarding the next steps, Callamard stated that the publication of the report is only the first phase. She explained that, along with partners in 70 international organizations, Amnesty International will work with governments to pressure for an end to the apartheid system imposed on the Palestinian people.

“We have much work ahead in the coming months and years,” she said. “We remain committed to doing everything possible, in cooperation with international organizations, to expose the practices of apartheid and the crimes committed by Israel against the Palestinian people.”