Dr. Saeb Erekat on the Sabra and Shatila Massacre (Beirut, September 16, 17 & 18, 1982)

Thirty-four years ago an Israeli general, Ariel Sharon, violated an Israeli obligation not to enter West Beirut and facilitated the barbaric massacre of hundreds of Palestinian refugees that were under his control. Instead of being held accountable, Sharon was even promoted to become Israel’s Prime Minister. He passed away two years ago without ever facing justice for his heinous crimes.

The massacre of Sabra and Shatila is a symbol of the Palestinian exile. Over the past few years, Palestinian refugees have also been persecuted and killed in Iraq and Syria. Resolving the plight of Palestinian refugees, in accordance with international law and UN resolution 194, is of vital importance for our region. Israel was accepted as a UN member under the commitment to honor resolutions 181 and 194 as well as the UN Charter. To date, the international community has failed to honor Palestinian rights, let alone to hold Israel accountable for its violations and crimes against the land and people of Palestine. 

Sabra and Shatila is a reminder of the importance to make justice prevail over impunity.