OIC Foreign Ministers Convene In Jeddah To Discuss Ongoing Israeli Aggression Against Palestinian People

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) held an extraordinary meeting in Jeddah to address the ongoing Israeli actions against Palestinians. The meeting focused on the annexation plans and forced displacement issues. Lejeune Mbella Mbella, Cameroon's Minister of External Relations, opened the session, highlighting the need for a unified stance amid new developments in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Mbella stressed the importance of adhering to the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, established last January. This agreement is seen as crucial for improving humanitarian conditions in Gaza and reducing tensions in the Middle East. He urged full implementation of this agreement to achieve a final resolution through a coordinated multilateral approach.

Dr. Mamadou Tangara, Gambia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, called on the international community to halt Israeli aggression against Palestinians. He noted that over 180 people have been affected, many being women and children. Tangara condemned plans to displace Palestinians from Gaza, describing them as provocative and brutal.

Tangara emphasised that now is the time for concerted international efforts to establish a lasting ceasefire. He reiterated that a two-state solution is essential for peace and stability in the Middle East. He also expressed concern over Israeli laws banning UNRWA's work, which contradicts international law.

Hussein Ibrahim Taha, OIC Secretary-General, supported Gaza's reconstruction plan adopted by the Arab Summit. He highlighted the need for financial and political backing to implement this plan within a two-state solution framework. Taha warned against Israeli measures threatening Palestinian refugees' rights.

Taha stressed UNRWA's irreplaceable role in aiding millions of Palestinian refugees. He called for increased support for UNRWA amidst challenges posed by Israel's occupation and settlement activities. These actions alter occupied territories' demographics and geography while violating Jerusalem's sanctity.

Palestinian Leadership's Call

Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa urged adopting a joint Arab-Islamic initiative with Egypt for Gaza's reconstruction. This plan aims to rebuild Gaza using local resources without displacement, supported regionally and internationally towards establishing Palestine as a state.

Mustafa stated that success depends on Israel ceasing aggression, allowing displaced people's return, withdrawing occupation forces, opening crossings, maintaining ceasefire sustainability, and providing necessary building materials and financial aid.

Unity Among Islamic Nations

The OIC meeting underscored unity among Islamic nations regarding Palestine as crucial for confronting Israeli actions effectively. Mustafa emphasised that collective commitment towards Palestine is vital for achieving regional peace and stability.

The meeting also marked Syria's return to OIC membership following foreign ministers' decision to resume its participation in the organisation.

With inputs from SPA