DZWatch Exclusive: Eight Arab and Islamic nations have voiced strong opposition to any attempts to forcibly displace the Palestinian population. In a joint statement released today, the foreign ministers of Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Pakistan, and Indonesia expressed their deep concern regarding recent Israeli statements concerning the potential one-way opening of the Rafah crossing to allow residents of Gaza to enter Egypt.
The joint statement firmly rejects “any and all attempts to displace the Palestinian people.” The nations emphasized the critical need to adhere to the principles outlined in the Trump plan for Gaza, specifically regarding the bi-directional opening of the Rafah crossing. They called for the full implementation of all aspects of the agreement without delay or obstruction.
“It is imperative to solidify a ceasefire, put an end to the suffering of civilians, and ensure the unhindered delivery of aid to Gaza,” the statement declared. The eight nations further urged a swift reconstruction process and the creation of conditions conducive to the Palestinian Authority resuming its responsibilities in the Gaza Strip.
These statements follow recent denials from Egypt regarding any agreement with Israel to open the Rafah crossing unilaterally for the exit of Gaza residents. Diaa Rashwan, head of the State Information Service of Egypt, emphasized that, according to the Trump plan, no Gaza resident should be forced to leave, voluntarily or otherwise, and that they retain the right to return, which applies to the opening of the crossing from the Egyptian side.
Rashwan’s comments were in response to an Israeli announcement indicating the potential opening of the Rafah crossing in the coming days to allow Palestinians to exit the Gaza Strip into Egypt. The announcement originated from the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), the Israeli government body responsible for Palestinian affairs.
