- He further called for the voices and stories of the mothers and daughters to be heard
- "Immediate, unhindered humanitarian access is imperative to address the pressing needs of girls and women in Gaza," he said.
Image: HANDDOUT
Permanent Representative of Kenya to the United Nations Ambassador Martin Kimani has said Kenya calls for a renewable dedication to a peace process following the Israel -Gaza war.
Speaking during the annual open debate on women, peace, and security at the UN Security Council, Kimani said without women's insights and interests at the core of discussions with Israel, Palestine, and other stakeholders, the world jeopardises the potential for enduring peace, and risk further calamity.
"The war between Israel and Hamas disrupts a status quo that was unacceptable to Kenya which understands the Palestinian yearning for independence and sovereignty," he said.
"It was unacceptable to us who sympathise with Israel’s constant vigilance against existential threats."
Kimani further added that the terrorist attacks by Hamas have severely harmed Israeli women in ways too distressing.
"Alongside other civilians, these women face significant hardships due to ongoing military operations. They are often deprived of safe birthing services, vital supplies, and essentials like protection from airstrikes, food, and water," he noted.
He further called for the voices and stories of the mothers and daughters to be heard
"Women are too often portrayed in media mainly as victims, sidelining their roles as leaders or decision-makers. This very marginalisation spurred the creation of Resolution 1325 nearly twenty-five years ago."
"Immediate, unhindered humanitarian access is imperative to address the pressing needs of girls and women in Gaza," he said.
Additionally, Kimani said there is a pressing demand for forums that promote dialogue, education, activism, and policy-making.
"These spaces can bolster collaborative networks that accentuate women's voices, paving the way for their impactful roles in justice, accountability, peacebuilding, and decision-making in both Israel and Palestine."
He expressed sympathy to both victims and survivors of the violence on both sides.
"We unequivocally condemn this terrorism and acknowledge Israel's right to defend its citizens against Hamas's actions."