Gulf Cooperation Council Affirms Support for Independent Palestinian State
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has reiterated its support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. This comes as Israeli settlers continue to illegally occupy Palestinian territories, in clear violation of international legitimacy resolutions.
In a statement issued at the close of its 57th session in Riyadh, the GCC Ministerial Council condemned Israel’s ongoing construction of settlement units in the occupied Palestinian territories. The council called these actions a direct violation of UN Security Council Resolution No. 2334 and other international resolutions.
The GCC Ministerial Council also welcomed the Australian government’s decision to use the term “occupied Palestinian territories” and urged the international community to follow suit. They called on Israeli authorities to reverse their settlement decisions and work towards a resolution that fulfills the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.
Furthermore, the council denounced the repeated incursions by Israeli officials and settlers into the courtyards of the Al Aqsa Mosque. These actions not only violate the sanctity of the mosque but also represent a serious violation of international law and the historical and legal status quo in Al Quds (Jerusalem) and its holy sites.
Saudi Arabia’s recent decision to appoint a non-resident ambassador to the State of Palestine and Consul General in Al Quds was commended by the GCC Ministerial Council. This move reflects the GCC states’ commitment to protecting Islamic sanctities and supporting the Palestinian cause.
The council also expressed its support for the final statement of the Egyptian-Jordanian-Palestinian tripartite summit, which took place in El Alamein, Egypt, on August 14, 2023. The summit discussed the Palestinian cause in light of the current developments in the occupied territories.
In addition, the GCC Ministerial Council called on its member countries and the international community to continue supporting the activities of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). The agency plays a crucial role in providing assistance to Palestinian refugees until they can safely return to their homes.
The reaffirmation of the GCC’s position on the Palestinian issue highlights the ongoing commitment of Gulf countries to supporting the rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people. By condemning Israel’s illegal settlements and incursions into Al Aqsa Mosque, the GCC sends a strong message to the international community about the need for a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The GCC’s call for the international community to pressure Israeli authorities to reverse their settlement decisions is an important step towards holding Israel accountable for its actions. It is crucial for countries around the world to stand united in condemning these violations of international law and working towards a peaceful resolution.
The appointment of a non-resident ambassador to Palestine and Consul General in Al Quds demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s commitment to protecting Islamic holy sites and supporting the Palestinian cause. This move sets an example for other GCC states and reinforces the importance of safeguarding the rights and dignity of Palestinians.
The support for the UNRWA’s activities is also significant, as it provides vital assistance to Palestinian refugees who have been displaced from their homes. By continuing to support the agency, the GCC member countries and the international community can help alleviate the suffering of Palestinian refugees and contribute to their eventual return and resettlement.
In conclusion, the GCC’s reaffirmation of its support for an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital is a clear statement of solidarity with the Palestinian people. By condemning Israel’s illegal actions and calling for international pressure, the GCC aims to bring attention to the ongoing injustices and work towards a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.