Philippine government and civil society must cut ties with genocidal Israel

“Worse than hell on earth”: this is how the head of the International Red Cross described Gaza last week.

“Enough is enough. Israel is committing war crimes”: the words not of pro-Palestinian supporters but of Israel’s own former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, published two weeks ago.

We at Partido Sosyalista now refuse to keep citing the numbers of Palestinians killed. We stand opposed to constantly reciting the horrors and atrocities Israel is committing against the Palestinian. We refuse to keep showing those pictures of children dying. We are way past the point of trying to convince anyone that a genocide is taking place in Gaza. Anyone who still believes otherwise can no longer be reasoned with.

But beyond this, we also believe that the time for mere condemnations and expressions of sympathy has passed. Palestinians have never—and will never—find comfort in yet another angry statement denouncing genocide or in yet another inconsequential vote against Israel at the UN. Actions that back angry words are long overdue.

In line with this, we at Partido Sosyalista reiterate our demand that the Philippine government finally cut its diplomatic ties and terminate all forms of cooperation with Israel—just as so many countries have already done. Shut down the Israeli embassy in Makati. Recall all diplomats from Tel Aviv and send them to accompany aid trucks entering Gaza instead. Return those Israeli weapons.

But it is not just the government. We also call on civil society—universities, associations, churches, unions—to heed the Palestinians call for boycotts, divestments, and sanctions against Israel. End all partnerships with Israeli universities. Suspend attendance to the Frankfurt Book Fair. Refuse to receive funding from and participate in any events organized by pro-Israel or Zionist organizations. Instead of giving indirect aid to those perpetrating genocide, stand in solidarity with and provide concrete support to the Gaza Freedom Flotilla, the Sumud Convoy, and all those taking direct action to deliver urgent aid to Gaza.

By refusing to look away, by refusing to be complicit through inaction: this is how we begin to end the nightmare in Gaza.

Partido Sosyalista

12 June 2025