In the wake of escalating tensions due to Israeli aggression on Gaza, Arab foreign ministers convened in Riyadh for a crucial preparatory meeting ahead of the emergency Arab summit. Led by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, the meeting, which took place on Thursday, saw the approval of the final draft resolution. This resolution is slated for discussion and potential adoption at the upcoming Arab summit scheduled for Saturday.
During the meeting, attended by foreign ministers, heads of delegations, and Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, Hossam Zaki, Assistant Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, addressed the media. He highlighted the significance of the approved resolution, noting its comprehensive coverage of key elements of the Arab-Palestinian political position. The resolution aims to foster international understanding of the Arab and Palestinian perspectives and, crucially, to bring an end to the Israeli aggression.
Zaki affirmed that the summit is poised to endorse the draft resolution, aligning it with the aspirations of the Arab peoples. Additionally, he announced an upcoming Islamic summit, reinforcing the Arab framework and signaling further decisive actions.
As anticipation builds for the Arab summit, Zaki assured a robust representation of Arab leaders, emphasizing the collective commitment of Arab countries. Responding to discussions about a humanitarian truce, Zaki clarified that the Arab position prioritizes a comprehensive cease-fire. He distinguished this from notions of a humanitarian truce, stating that such ideas aim to address the deteriorating humanitarian situation resulting from the conflict. The core of the Arab position, he emphasized, unequivocally calls for an immediate cease-fire.
Addressing reported attempts by Israel and other parties to separate Gaza from the West Bank and introduce multinational forces to Gaza, Zaki categorically rejected these proposals. He assured that the Arab position has scrutinized and dismissed such ideas, underlining the steadfast refusal to entertain measures leading to the separation of Gaza from the West Bank.
In summary, the upcoming Arab summit is poised to address urgent concerns surrounding the Israeli aggression on Gaza, with the approved resolution reflecting the collective stance of Arab nations. This unified front seeks a cease-fire and aims to safeguard Palestinian interests in the face of ongoing tensions.
Expert Speak:
Sharing his thoughts with Financial Express Online, former Ambassador Anil Trigunayat says: “The Hamas terror strikes and consequent disproportionate and indiscriminate bombing of Palestinian civilians and scores of dead on both sides have shaken the conscience of the world and have recharged the Arab Street and the Palestinian cause yet again.”
The Arab League and Saudis had agreed to an Arab Peace Plan and Land for Peace formula which will be reflected in the outcome of the meeting which will reflect the Arab position and quest for a comprehensive solution in no uncertain words.
“Whether it will have any impact or will steer to an acceptable solution of the Palestinian issue remains to be seen. This will be directed specially to the US and western countries as much as to Israel which in the recent past has been seeking to build bridges with the Arab world without resolving the Palestinian issue,” Amb Trigunayat states.