Foreign Minister Attaf Urges OCI to Intensify Palestine Efforts

Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf advocated for intensified efforts by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OCI) to support the Palestinian cause. Speaking from Jeddah during the 23rd extraordinary session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of OCI member states, Attaf highlighted the escalating situation in occupied Palestine. He reminded the organization that the defense of Jerusalem and Palestine constituted a primary objective of its establishment.

Attaf described the situation in occupied Palestine as grave and worsening, citing daily violations in the West Bank and Jerusalem, alongside a persistent humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. He articulated that the ongoing tragedy faced by the Palestinian people results from a systematic effort to destroy their living conditions, their present aspirations for freedom, and the future of a nation seeking peace. The Foreign Minister called for the OCI to join international efforts aimed at ending the injustice, oppression, and deprivations affecting the Palestinian people, enabling them to reclaim their legitimate rights.

The Algerian Foreign Minister recalled the hope that accompanied the ceasefire in Gaza nearly ten months prior, viewing it as an urgent humanitarian necessity to halt the bloodshed and allow the Palestinian people to recover. He noted the persistence of the Israeli occupation in prolonging the suffering, including its refusal to honor commitments for implementing a second phase of a diplomatic agreement and its continued policies of intimidation, famine, and collective punishment. Attaf concluded by reaffirming Algeria's consistent position in unwavering support for the Palestinian people and their just cause, alongside its full readiness to participate in any sincere initiative or responsible action to ensure the Palestinian people realize their full national rights.