The Arab Republic of Egypt and the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, speaking as the leaders of the Arab Group and Organization for Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Group at the United Nations in New York, have jointly urged the United Nations General Assembly to take action in response to the dire situation in the Gaza Strip. This appeal follows the veto of a draft resolution by a Permanent Member of the Security Council on 8th December 2023.
Citing the alarming escalation of violence and the continued flouting of international law, including humanitarian and human rights regulations, as well as violations of pertinent United Nations resolutions, including the critical resolution ES-10/21, the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, notably in the Gaza Strip, has reached a tipping point. The persistent Israeli military aggression and blockade against the Palestinian civilian populace has led to an increased toll of casualties, including women, children, and men, along with extensive damage to homes and civilian infrastructure. Moreover, over 1.9 million people have been forcibly displaced, inhibiting the work of humanitarian agencies like UNRWA and impeding the much-needed delivery of aid. This perilous situation not only jeopardizes countless lives but also poses a severe threat to regional and global peace and security, necessitating swift intervention by the General Assembly in accordance with the “Uniting for Peace” resolution 377 (V) (1950).
The urgency of the appeal cannot be overstated, given the gravity of the crisis and its potential to exacerbate an already catastrophic situation. The appeal underscores the imperative for immediate and decisive action by the General Assembly to address this escalating humanitarian tragedy and its profound implications for international stability and security.
This initiative, born out of the extraordinary Islamic-Arab Summit held on 11th November 2023 in Riyadh, stands as a resolute call to action, representing a united front in the pursuit of peace and justice in the region. As the gravity of the situation continues to unfold, the international community eagerly awaits the General Assembly’s response to this urgent and compelling plea for intervention.
