BRUSSELS

A member of the European Parliament (MEP), Matjaz Nemec, publicly presented on Tuesday the nomination of UN Special Rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, Francesca Albanese, and Gaza-based doctors for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, following its official submission to the Norwegian Nobel Committee.

The nomination was signed by nearly 300 eligible proposers from 33 countries, including Brazil, South Africa, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, according to a statement shared by Nemec on US social media company X.

Nemec said the nomination "is an expression of respect for the courage, efforts, and perseverance of individuals who defend fundamental human values in the most difficult circumstances" and "represents a contribution to peace that transcends political divisions."

He highlighted Albanese's work in upholding international law and human rights, noting that she continues her mission despite facing "strong political pressure" and sanctions from Israel and the United States.

"Francesca Albanese holds up a mirror to us all and is firmly committed to international law and the foundations we built in response to the greatest massacre in human history - World War II," he said.

The nomination also includes Gaza-based doctors, such as Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya and Dr. Sara Al-Saqqa, who risk their lives amid armed conflict to carry out medical duties.

Nemec said: "With the health infrastructure completely destroyed and the acute shortage of basic necessities, they realize the values ​​of humanity, solidarity and peace every day by saving lives and adhering to medical ethics, and they more than deserve this kind of award."

The lawmaker emphasized that the global campaign for the nomination calls on the international community and political leaders worldwide to respect international law, human rights, and human dignity under all circumstances.

Since Oct. 10, the Israeli army has committed hundreds of ceasefire violations, killing at least 391 Palestinians and injuring 1,063 others, according to the latest figures by the Gaza Health Ministry.

Israel has killed more than 70,600 people, mostly women and children, and injured over 171,100 others in attacks in Gaza since October 2023.