The Speaker of the House participates in the 6th Global Conference of Parliamentary Leaders.
Sheikh Sultan Al-Barakani Participates in Sixth Global Parliamentary Conference
On Wednesday, Sheikh Sultan Al-Barakani, the Speaker of the Yemeni Parliament, participated in the Sixth Global Parliamentary Conference. This event, organized by the Inter-Parliamentary Union in collaboration with the United Nations, runs from July 29 to 31. It gathers parliamentary leaders from around the world under the theme “A Troubled World: Parliamentary Cooperation and Pluralism for Peace, Justice, and Prosperity for All.”
Addressing Human Rights Violations in Yemen
In his speech, Al-Barakani highlighted the dire situation in Yemen, where Houthi militias engage in acts of terrorism. He condemned their blockade and starvation tactics against children, as well as their violations of human rights and destruction of infrastructure. He criticized the Houthis for imposing a foreign identity on the Yemeni people, stripping them of their national, religious, and historical identities. He pointed out that this rogue group, supported by Iran, disrupts regional stability, threatens maritime interests, and burdens humanity globally.
Iranian Support for Houthi Militias
Al-Barakani drew attention to a recent incident involving an Iranian ship seized off the western coast of Yemen. The vessel, carrying 750 tons of weapons, including drones and missiles, exemplifies the military support the Houthis receive from Iran. He expressed concern that while the world remains silent on the closure of maritime routes in the Red Sea, some nations engage in deals with aggressors, prioritizing their own interests over international law.
The Double Standards of Global Responses
He criticized the global community for its inconsistent responses to violence. When Western interests are threatened, it is labeled a “global threat.” However, when weak nations suffer, the situation is deemed “complex” and requires further study. Al-Barakani emphasized that the current global order is chaotic, with international relations, justice, and human rights all in disarray. He argued that this disorder stems not from weak legislation but from a lack of moral responsibility among those who enforce these laws.
The Plight of Palestinians
Al-Barakani also addressed the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, questioning whether the suffering of children and women there constitutes self-defense. He expressed disbelief that such actions could justify mass killings and destruction. He called for accountability and adherence to international humanitarian law, stressing that the lives of people in conflict zones should matter equally.
The Role of Parliaments in Promoting Peace
In light of the global turmoil, Al-Barakani underscored the critical role of national and international parliaments in fostering peace and upholding international treaties. He asserted that parliaments must rise above narrow political interests and advocate for justice and equality. He urged free parliaments worldwide to act against moral decline and work towards a more balanced global system.
A Call to Action
Al-Barakani concluded his address by calling for collective action, not only to oppose war but to champion justice and the right of all peoples to self-determination. He warned that extinguishing hope in the oppressed could lead to dire consequences for everyone.
Conference Highlights
Several other speeches during the conference emphasized the importance of addressing the current exceptional circumstances faced by the Palestinian people due to ongoing aggression. Participants discussed the need for collaborative efforts to support Palestine and other shared concerns.
Attendees
The conference saw participation from members of the Yemeni Parliament, including Abdul Rahman Ma’azib, Ahmed Bahawirith, and Khaled Al-Rudfani. The Yemeni Ambassador to Switzerland and the Permanent Representative in Geneva, Dr. Ali Majour, along with his deputy, Dr. Hamid Omar, also attended the event.
This conference serves as a crucial platform for discussing pressing global issues and fostering international cooperation for peace and justice.
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