Arab League, African Union and OIC Condemn Israeli Settlement Expansion in Palestinian Territories
The League of Arab States, the African Union Commission, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation have jointly criticised ongoing Israeli settlement activities and annexation plans in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, particularly the proposed E1 settlement project and the planned displacement of the Bedouin community of Al-Khan al-Ahmar near East Jerusalem.
In a joint statement, the leaders of the three organizations described the actions as violations of international law and relevant United Nations resolutions. They reaffirmed their opposition to settlement expansion and other measures they believe undermine Palestinian rights and prospects for peace.
The organizations also accused Israel of infringing on the fundamental rights and freedoms of Palestinians through policies they say are based on discrimination, annexation, displacement, and continued occupation. They urged the international community to take stronger legal and political action to protect Palestinian civilians and support efforts aimed at achieving a lasting peace settlement.
The statement stressed that continued settlement activities and displacement policies threaten the viability of the two-state solution and undermine the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination, including the establishment of an independent state based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The three bodies further condemned restrictions imposed on international non-governmental organizations operating in the Palestinian territories. They expressed concern over measures affecting humanitarian agencies, aid workers, and relief organizations, arguing that such actions hinder humanitarian assistance and recovery efforts.
Special attention was given to the role of international humanitarian agencies and United Nations bodies, including UNRWA, which the organizations described as essential partners in delivering aid, supporting development projects, and assisting affected populations.
The statement called on Israeli authorities to remove restrictions affecting humanitarian organizations and to ensure the safety and protection of aid workers, medical personnel, journalists, and United Nations staff operating within the occupied territories.
Additionally, the organizations urged the international community to support the Palestinian government by ensuring the release of financial resources and tax revenues owed to the State of Palestine. They argued that access to these funds is necessary for the Palestinian authorities to meet their obligations and strengthen the resilience of their people.
The joint position was endorsed by the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, Ahmed Aboul Gheit; the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssef; and the Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Hissein Brahim Taha.
