The Florida chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Florida), the state’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the upcoming visit of Israeli official Yoav Gallant to Sarasota, Florida, on October 12.
Gallant, who formerly served as Israel’s Minister of Defense, has been accused by international human rights organizations of playing a leading role in the ongoing atrocities committed against Palestinians in Gaza.
[NOTE: Last year, CAIR’s national office applauded the International Criminal Court (ICC) decision to reject outside pressure and issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza genocide.]
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued a warrant for Gallant’s arrest on charges related to alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. CAIR-Florida is calling on people of conscience, elected officials, and community members to oppose Gallant’s presence in Florida and to refrain from attending or legitimizing any event featuring him.
“It is deeply disturbing that an individual wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged war crimes would be welcomed in our state,” said Megan Amer, CAIR-Florida’s Policy Director. “Floridians should not lend legitimacy or hospitality to someone accused of masterminding policies that have led to mass atrocities against civilians in Gaza. We call on all people of conscience to stand on the side of justice and human rights by opposing this visit.”
CAIR-Florida has consistently spoken out against war crimes and violations of international law in Gaza and elsewhere. The organization urges the U.S. and the State of Florida governments to uphold international legal norms and cooperate with international judicial bodies, including the ICC.
CAIR-Florida’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR-Florida es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT: CAIR-Florida Communications Director Wilfredo A. Ruiz, 305-502-6749, wruiz@cair.com