The International Human Rights Consortium (IHRC) released a statement today expressing deep concern over ongoing violations of the ceasefire between Israel and Palestine, while commending global efforts toward a peaceful resolution. The organization, which advocates for the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), highlighted that Israel's continued bombing of Gaza, blocking of humanitarian aid, and occupation of major parts of the Gaza Strip undermine the current ceasefire agreement.
The IHRC referenced the UDHR preamble, which condemns "barbarous acts which have outraged the conscience of mankind," drawing parallels to the recent escalation of hostilities, including Hamas's October 7 war crimes and Israel's genocidal actions in Gaza. The consortium noted that fundamental rights—such as life, liberty, security, freedom from torture, and adequate living standards—have been systematically violated, while Article 19's freedom of expression is threatened by the silencing of critics.
Emphasizing the need for "good faith" as implied in international treaty law, the IHRC called for Israel to comply with the Geneva Conventions as an occupying power. This includes re-establishing UNRWA aid operations, supporting Palestinian self-determination, and cooperating fully with the United Nations. The consortium cited the October 2025 advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) as a legal basis for these obligations.
The IHRC acknowledged the recent ceasefire and hostage exchanges as positive first steps in a multi-phased peace plan but stressed that lasting peace requires more than cessation of hostilities. The organization called for accountability, particularly regarding the release of both Israeli and Palestinian hostages, and urged adherence to the UDHR as a guide for justice.
In the statement, IHRC founder Wilda Spalding's words were invoked: "Have the courage to go deep enough to find where you breathe the same air and drink the same water… because when you go deep enough, you will find some place that you are not divided." The consortium views this as the essence of good faith necessary for solution-building.
The IHRC remains committed to advancing the peace plan, especially its interfaith dialogue process and the pursuit of a mutually agreed political horizon. The organization concludes that the UDHR can serve as a secure guidepost for fostering mutual respect and achieving a truly abiding peace in the region.
