OIC Foreign Ministers Reaffirm Commitment To Palestinian Rights And Jerusalem Amid Ongoing Israeli Aggression

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers recently held an extraordinary session in Jeddah. The meeting focused on the ongoing Israeli aggression against Palestinians, particularly in Gaza. The council reaffirmed its commitment to previous resolutions concerning Palestine and Jerusalem, emphasizing the centrality of the Palestinian cause to the Islamic Ummah.

The council condemned Israel's plans to impose full control over Gaza, viewing it as a dangerous escalation. It stressed that such actions violate international law and threaten regional peace. The council called for an immediate cessation of military operations and the lifting of the siege on Gaza to allow humanitarian aid.

Israel's recent approval of 3,400 illegal settlement units in occupied Al-Quds was strongly condemned by the council. This move is seen as an attempt to alter the demographic landscape, undermining prospects for a two-state solution. The council urged international action to halt these illegal settlements.

The council highlighted Israel's systematic targeting of civilian infrastructure in Gaza, which has led to famine and a humanitarian catastrophe. It demanded that Israel open all crossings for unhindered humanitarian aid entry, including food, medicine, and fuel.

The OIC urged the international community to take legal measures against Israel's occupation policies. It called for sanctions and a review of diplomatic relations with Israel. The council also emphasized the need for accountability for crimes committed against Palestinians.

Efforts by countries like Egypt, Qatar, and the USA were acknowledged for their role in ceasefire negotiations aimed at alleviating suffering in Gaza. The council stressed that these efforts are crucial for ending Israeli aggression and facilitating reconstruction.

Support for Palestinian Rights

The council reiterated support for Palestinian rights, including self-determination and refugee return. It emphasized establishing a sovereign State of Palestine with Al-Quds as its capital based on pre-1967 borders. This aligns with international law and UN resolutions.

Israel's refusal to engage with mediators' proposals was criticized by the council. These proposals aimed at achieving a ceasefire and allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza were seen as vital steps toward peace.

Call for International Action

The OIC called on UN Security Council members from its member states to coordinate efforts with Palestine during upcoming General Assembly meetings. This coordination aims to address Israeli aggression comprehensively.

The council condemned attacks on journalists in Gaza as war crimes against press freedom. It highlighted Israel's attempts to restrict media access as efforts to obscure its actions from global scrutiny.

Preservation of Holy Sites

The protection of Islamic and Christian holy sites in occupied territories was stressed by the council. It praised Jordan's role in safeguarding these sites and rejected any attempts undermining this custodianship.

The OIC commended Algeria's efforts within the UN Security Council supporting Islamic issues broadly and Palestine specifically during its non-permanent membership tenure.

Efforts Toward Peace

Acknowledging Saudi Arabia and France's leadership at a recent conference on peaceful settlement, the council supported implementing outcomes promoting peace through a two-state solution framework.

The OIC emphasized that lasting peace requires ending Israeli occupation while ensuring Palestinian sovereignty over East Al-Quds under international law guidelines set forth by relevant UN resolutions.

With inputs from SPA