The D-8 Group Calls for US to Lift Veto on Palestine’s UN Membership
The D-8 group of developing nations, consisting of Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkiye, has made a strong statement calling for the United States to lift its veto on the full membership of Palestine as an independent and sovereign state in the United Nations. The Palestinians are currently recognized as a non-member observer state, a status granted by the UN General Assembly in 2012. However, the D-8 group is advocating for Palestine to be granted full UN membership.
During a recent meeting in Istanbul, the D-8 council of ministers also demanded that all countries cease supplying weapons and ammunition to Israel. This call comes at a critical time as the UN General Assembly recently supported a Palestinian bid for full UN membership by acknowledging its qualifications to join and recommending favorable reconsideration by the UN Security Council.
The push for full UN membership for Palestine comes amidst ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Additionally, Israel’s expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank, deemed illegal by the UN, has further fueled tensions in the region. The Palestinian death toll in Gaza has surpassed 36,000, leading to a humanitarian crisis that has drawn criticism from human rights groups and other observers.
Critics have pointed fingers at the United States for providing weapons to Israel and defending its actions in the conflict. The D-8 group’s call for an end to arms supplies to Israel underscores the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and promoting peace in the region.
In a recent development, the Israeli military announced the successful rescue of four hostages who were seized by Hamas during an attack on October 7th. The attack reportedly resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people and the abduction of 250 others. Meanwhile, Palestinian health officials have reported at least 50 deaths in Israeli attacks on Nuseirat and other central Gaza areas.
The D-8 group’s stance on Palestine’s UN membership and the call to halt arms supplies to Israel reflect a growing international concern over the situation in the region. As tensions escalate and casualties mount, diplomatic efforts are crucial in finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The D-8 group’s declaration serves as a reminder of the need for global cooperation in addressing humanitarian crises and promoting stability in conflict-ridden areas.
The international community must heed the D-8 group’s call for action and work towards a sustainable solution that upholds the rights and dignity of all parties involved. Only through dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international law can lasting peace be achieved in the Middle East.