OIC Condemns Violence Targeting Rohingya Muslims

TEHRAN (IQNA) – The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) condemned the renewed outbreak of violence affecting the Rohingya Muslim community in Rakhine State, Myanmar, which has caused thousands to flee their homes to neighboring Bangladesh.

This has been clearly evidenced in the systematic and organized destruction of many villages and homes by vigilante groups under the cover of army and police forces, particularly in Quarter No. 5 in Maungdow city. 

The OIC condemned the indiscriminate use of military force, including heavy artillery, on civilian populations, which has displaced more than 20,000 Rohingya across the region, the organization's website reported. 

The organization called upon the Myanmar government to immediately restore the displaced persons to their homes and allow humanitarian aid agencies to assist the affected people.

"These events violate the basic rights of the Rohingya Muslims and also represent a grave violation of the Myanmar government's international commitments to protect civilians," it said. "Such incidents of violence only serve to exacerbate tensions and fuel instability."

The OIC noted that the recommendations of the Advisory Commission on Rakhine State, Chaired by Kofi Annan, clearly indicated that greater efforts are needed by the government to prevent violence, maintain peace, foster reconciliation and offer a sense of hope to the long suffering Rohingya population. 

The OIC also reiterated support for the recent statements issued by its member states, which highlighted concern over the violence and the deteriorating humanitarian situation facing the Rohingya and emphasizes that it is a charter obligation to "safeguard the rights, dignity and religious and cultural identity of Muslim communities and minorities in non-member-states"