OIC Criticizes Israeli Justifications For Philadelphi Corridor Occupation, Stands With Egypt

Hissein Brahim Taha, the Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), condemned recent Israeli statements justifying their continued illegal presence in the Philadelphi Corridor. He described these statements as attempts to evade responsibility for violating the ceasefire agreement and prolonging military aggression, genocide, starvation, siege, and forced displacement of Palestinians in Gaza.

Taha expressed solidarity with Egypt, acknowledging its significant historical role in promoting peace and stability in the region. He urged the international community to take immediate action to enforce a comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza. He also called for the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Philadelphi Corridor and all of Gaza, as mandated by UN Security Council Resolution 2735.

The Secretary-General denounced the Israeli prime minister's presentation of a map excluding the occupied West Bank. He viewed this act as a continuation of racist and illegal policies that deny Palestinian rights. Taha stated that this move aims to solidify the illegal colonial occupation and settlement regime in Palestinian territories, undermining a two-state solution.

Taha called on the international community, especially the UN Security Council and General Assembly, to uphold the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion declaring the Israeli occupation illegal. He urged these bodies to consider further actions necessary to end Israel's unlawful presence in Occupied Palestinian Territory swiftly.

The OIC Secretary-General highlighted that these Israeli actions represent an attempt to evade responsibility for ongoing violations against Palestinians. He stressed that such actions undermine efforts towards peace and stability in the region.

Taha emphasized that international intervention is crucial to ensure a comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza. He reiterated that Israel must withdraw from all occupied territories as per international resolutions.

The Secretary-General's statements reflect OIC's stance on supporting Palestinian rights and condemning Israeli policies perceived as aggressive and illegal. His call for decisive international action underscores the urgency of addressing these issues to achieve lasting peace.

With inputs from SPA