Arab Summit Calls for Immediate Cessation of Hostilities in Gaza
The Baghdad Declaration from the 34th Arab Summit emphasizes support for Palestinian sovereignty and regional stability.
The Baghdad Declaration, issued during the 34th Arab Summit, has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza, demanding the halt of all aggressive actions against civilians and a firm rejection of the displacement of the Palestinian people.
Arab leaders reaffirmed their support for the Palestinian cause, advocating for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
They underscored the centrality of the Palestinian issue and emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.
The declaration also supports an Arab-Islamic reconstruction plan for Gaza and the establishment of a special fund to assist in rebuilding efforts, as well as care for orphans and the injured.
The Baghdad Declaration rejected attempts to alter the status of Jerusalem and condemned all illegal practices undertaken by Israel, recognized as an occupying power, for violating the rights of the Palestinian people to freedom, dignity, and life, in clear contravention of international law and religious statutes.
The leaders reiterated their support for the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of Arab states experiencing crises, urging for political solutions and comprehensive national dialogue while calling for an end to foreign interventions.
The declaration included a renewed commitment to the sovereignty of the United Arab Emirates over its three islands: Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa, which are currently occupied by the Islamic Republic of Iran.
The declaration called on Iran to respond positively to the UAE's initiative for a peaceful resolution to this issue, either through direct bilateral negotiations or by resorting to the International Court of Justice, in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter, which would contribute to building trust and enhancing security and stability in the Arabian Gulf region.
In the developmental sphere, the declaration approved strategic initiatives focused on food security, artificial intelligence, women's empowerment, technical education, and renewable energy, along with reinforcing Arab cooperation to address regional and international challenges.
Regarding security issues, the leaders emphasized their rejection of terrorism in all forms and the necessity of combating hate speech and extremism, welcoming the establishment of the National Center for Combating Terrorism in Iraq.
They also expressed support for the ongoing nuclear talks between the United States and Iran, commending the role of Oman in facilitating these discussions, and called for the elimination of weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East.