巴勒斯坦正式加入国际刑事法庭
The Palestinian Authority officially became a member of the International Criminal Court on Wednesday.
巴勒斯坦当局周三正式成为国际刑事法庭成员国。
Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat is describing it as a day of historical significance to the Palestinian People.
"We are trying to make sure that the crimes committed against our people in Gaza last summer, which led to the killing and wounding of 12,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, displacement of 500,000 Palestinians - we want to ensure that these crimes are not recommitted. We want to make sure that there is non-reoccurrence of such crimes against our people"
The Palestinian membership in the ICC takes effect at a time when the chances of resuming negotiations on Palestinian statehood are seen as slim, following Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent election victory and tough campaign rhetoric.
International justice activists are hailing the occasion as an opportunity to bring accountability to years of conflict between the Israeli and Palestinian sides.
Palestinian Foreign Minister Riad Malki contends this brings them a step closer to ending a long era of impunity and injustice.
"In the face of the great injustice our people are enduring, and the repeated crimes committed against it, Palestine has decided to seek justice, not vengeance."
Joining the court is also part of a broader effort by the Palestinians to put international pressure on Israel.