OIC Summit condemns Israeli occupation, advocates for Palestinian rights

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) concluded its 15th Islamic Summit Conference in Banjul, Republic of The Gambia, with a resolute condemnation of the Israeli occupation and a fervent advocacy for the rights of the Palestinian people.

Under the theme “Strengthening Unity and Solidarity through Dialogue for Sustainable Development,” leaders from OIC member states convened to address pressing issues affecting the Muslim world.

The conference, chaired by H.E. Adama Barrow, President of The Gambia, expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia for its prior leadership and recognized the efforts made by Saudi Arabia in promoting joint Islamic action.

A pivotal focus of the summit was the reaffirmation of support for Palestine and Al-Quds Al-Sharif. The Conference reiterated its unwavering backing for the Palestinian people’s legitimate rights, including self-determination and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital along the 1967 borders.

In a stern stance against Israeli actions, the summit condemned the Israeli occupation’s violations, aggressive measures in Al-Quds, and the displacement of Palestinians.

The conference demanded an immediate, permanent, and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza, echoing calls for compliance with UNSC resolutions aimed at humanitarian relief and peace efforts.

Furthermore, the summit stressed the need for international accountability, urging states to take measures to prevent Israel’s continued violations of international law, including settlement expansion and annexation policies. Sanctions on Israel and the cessation of arms exports to the Israeli army were among the measures advocated by the OIC.

The OIC also called for tangible steps towards achieving peace based on justice and international law, emphasizing the implementation of a two-state solution and the convening of an international peace conference to end the occupation and promote lasting peace in the region.