The International Human Rights Consortium (IHRC) has issued a statement emphasizing the need for adherence to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and international law as the foundation for a lasting peace between Israel and Palestine. The organization, which connects individuals and groups to advance human rights, expressed deep concern over ongoing violations of the ceasefire and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for accountability and good faith negotiations.
The IHRC highlighted that the UDHR was created in response to atrocities like those seen in World War II, and that current hostilities—including Hamas's October 7 war crimes and Israel's actions labeled as genocide by a UN commission—reflect similar barbarism. Rights such as life, liberty, security, freedom from torture, and an adequate standard of living have been casualties, along with freedom of opinion under Article 19, as voices opposing the conflict are silenced.
The consortium stressed that the ceasefire cannot hold without good faith application of international treaty law, including the Geneva Conventions regarding Israel's role as an occupying force. It noted that Israel's ongoing bombing, blocking of aid, and continued occupation violate this commitment. The IHRC cited the October 2025 advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) as a basis for demanding Israel's compliance with its legal obligations, which include re-establishing UNRWA aid operations, supporting Palestinian self-determination, and cooperating with the United Nations.
The IHRC acknowledged the recent ceasefire and hostage exchanges as positive first steps in a multi-phased peace plan. It expressed solidarity with all hostages—both Israeli and Palestinian—and reiterated its commitment to the UDHR as a guide to justice. The organization emphasized the need for interfaith dialogue and a mutually agreed political horizon, drawing on founder Wilda Spalding's vision of finding common ground to build solutions.
The consortium concluded that much work remains beyond immediate cessation of hostilities, including addressing root causes and ensuring humanitarian assistance. The IHRC, a 501(c)(3) founded in 1992, remains dedicated to working with partners to advance human rights and the Sustainable Development Goals.
