The UAE and eight other Arab countries have issued a joint statement condemning the targeting of civilians and flagrant violations of international law in Gaza they have also called on the UN Security Council to take action towards achieving an immediate and sustainable ceasefire in the region.
Israel’s Right to Self-Defense: Gaza
Balancing Rights and Responsibilities
While acknowledging Israel’s right to self-defense, the statement emphasizes that this right should not be used to neglect the human rights and self-determination of Palestinians or the imperative of ending the decades-long occupation.
The Cairo Peace Summit: Gaza
Efforts for De-escalation
These statements followed the ‘Cairo Peace Summit,’ held in the Egyptian capital on October 21, which brought together over a dozen countries to discuss ways to de-escalate the Israel-Hamas conflict amid concerns of its potential expansion into a broader Middle East conflict.
Importance of a Political Solution
Seeking Lasting Peace
The Arab ministers underscore the lack of a political solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and its role in perpetuating acts of violence and suffering for both Palestinians and Israelis, as well as the region’s people.
A Two-State Solution
Vision for Palestinian Statehood
They stress the importance of a two- state solution, envisioning the establishment of an independent, sovereign, contiguous Palestinian state based on pre-June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Humanitarian Concerns
Condemnation of Forced Displacement
The Arab ministers condemn forced displacement and collective punishment in Gaza and highlight the urgent need to adhere to the protocols of the 1949 Geneva Conventions, including the laws of armed conflict and International Humanitarian Law.
Responsibilities and Hostages
International Humanitarian Obligations
This includes responsibilities of the occupying power and the immediate release of hostages and civilian detainees in a safe, dignified, and humane manner in line with international law and under the auspices of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) or Red Crescent.
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