Baghdad Declaration Calls For Immediate Halt To Gaza War And Support For Palestinian Rights

The 34th Arab Summit concluded with the Baghdad Declaration, urging an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a halt to civilian hostilities. It firmly opposed any forced displacement of Palestinians. Arab leaders reiterated their backing for the Palestinian right to form an independent state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The declaration highlighted the importance of the Palestinian issue, stressing the need for humanitarian aid and support for reconstruction initiatives. It proposed establishing a special fund for rebuilding Gaza and providing care for orphans and those injured. The declaration condemned attempts to Judaise Jerusalem and criticised Israel's illegal actions that infringe on Palestinian rights, defying international law.

Arab unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity were emphasised in the declaration. It called for political solutions, inclusive national dialogue, and an end to foreign interference in crisis-hit Arab nations. The declaration also expressed full support for the UAE's sovereignty over Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa islands, occupied by Iran.

The declaration urged Iran to engage positively with the UAE's initiative to resolve this issue peacefully. It suggested direct negotiations or involving the International Court of Justice under international law to build trust and enhance security in the Arabian Gulf region.

Development Initiatives

Strategic initiatives on development were adopted in the declaration. These focused on food security, artificial intelligence, women's empowerment, technical education, and renewable energy. Enhanced Arab cooperation was encouraged to tackle regional and global challenges effectively.

Security Concerns

The declaration stressed rejecting all forms of terrorism while addressing hate speech and extremism. It welcomed Iraq’s National Centre for Counter-Terrorism establishment. Additionally, it supported ongoing nuclear discussions between the US and Iran, praising Oman’s facilitation role.

The call for eliminating weapons of mass destruction from the Middle East was also part of the declaration's security focus.

With inputs from WAM