site.btaPublic Figures, Citizens Call for Condemnation of Genocide, Violations of International Law in Gaza

Bulgarian public figures, cultural leaders, and citizens urge national institutions for an “adequate position by the Bulgarian state regarding the genocide in Gaza”, in an open letter addressed to the President, the Prime Minister, and the Foreign Minister. The letter was presented to the media at the BTA National Press Club. It calls for a clear and public condemnation of the genocide and mass violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza, affirming that Bulgaria will uphold the spirit and the letter of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, to which the country is a signatory.

Against the backdrop of growing international condemnation of Israel’s actions, Associate Professor Dr. Ognyan Kasabov said that Bulgaria's current stance appears strange.

Diana Hussein, a representative of an initiative, “Position of Bulgarian Public Figures, Cultural Workers, and Citizens on the Genocide in Gaza,” said that over the past year, Bulgaria has shown consistent support for the actions of the Israeli government. She emphasized that it is crucial to condemn what is happening in Gaza, as our country is obligated to defend the principles that serve as a benchmark for conduct in Europe. According to her, the government must explain what strategic interest justifies Bulgaria's current position.

Viktor Lilov, also a representative of the initiative, was firm that Bulgarian institutions must not remain silent, as silence implies complicity in genocide. He questioned whether the Bulgarian government has the courage to acknowledge the facts as they are, including the violations of international law by Israel. In his view, one possible action could be calling for a suspension of certain trade relations between Israel and the EU.

According to Nayden Rashkov, Director of Amnesty International Bulgaria, the actions of the Israeli government meet the criteria for genocide. This is supported by a report from the human rights organization, based on factual evidence and satellite imagery from the past year. One of the tools of this genocide, he emphasized, is starvation.

Snezhana Todorova, Chair of the Union of Bulgarian Journalists (UBJ), said that the UBJ demands an end to military actions. She also questioned why the EU-Israel Association Agreement has not been reviewed.

Lyubomir Kyuchukov, diplomat and former deputy foreign minister, recalled that in 1988 the Bulgarian government officially recognized the State of Palestine. “With its current stance, the West confirms the perception of double standards,” he commented, adding that Europe is heavily affected. He stressed that criticism of Netanyahu’s policies is not anti-Semitism, but rather a call to uphold international law.

Kyuchukov warned that the current events in the Middle East are fueling extremism. Even if Hamas disappears in its current form, a more radical version could emerge unless a comprehensive international solution is found.

Maria Cheresheva, Chair of the Association of European Journalists – Bulgaria, highlighted that Israel is not allowing foreign journalists to operate in Gaza. She called for immediate access to Gaza for international media, urging both Israel and Hamas to allow journalistic presence.

The letter urges all the Bulgarian institutions responsible for foreign policy to support all rulings of the International Court of Justice, including efforts to implement them, as well as unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza.

The open letter also calls for an active diplomatic initiative by the UN, EU, and NATO to achieve an immediate and sustainable ceasefire, as well as a halt to the export and transit of weapons that could be used against civilians in Gaza.

It further urges for the reaffirmation and reinforcement of Bulgaria’s position in support of the Palestinian people’s right to a state, described as a viable, independent, and democratic Palestine.

In conclusion the  letter says: "Bulgaria cannot remain silent. What is needed is determination, courage, and dignified conduct, so that future generations may speak of Bulgaria with the same respect as they have until now."