The Riyadh Summit indicated, in its final communiqué released Monday, that first of these rights is the right of the Palestinian people to freedom and to an independent sovereign state within the borders of June 4, 1967, with Al Quds- Is for capital, as well as the right of return and compensation of refugees in accordance with the resolutions of international legality relating thereto, in addition to facing any attempt aimed at denying or obliterating these rights.
He also reaffirmed the full sovereignty of the State of Palestine over occupied Al Quds-East, the eternal capital of Palestine, and rejected all Israeli decisions or measures aimed at its Judaization, noting that the Holy City is a red line for Arab and Islamic nations.
The Summit expressed its total mobilization in the protection of the Arab and Islamic identity of occupied Al Quds-East, also reaffirming its absolute support for the Lebanese Republic, its security, its stability, its sovereignty and the security of its citizens.
He also reiterated the decisions taken at the first Extraordinary Arab-Islamic Summit held in the city of Riyadh in November 2023, while working to end the repercussions of the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip and Lebanon, and continuing to act in concert with the international community to put an end to serious Israeli violations of international law and international humanitarian law.
The Summit also condemned the Israeli war against Lebanon, as well as the violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, calling for an immediate ceasefire and full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. UN (2006).
In the same vein, the final communiqué urged the international community to work actively to force Israel to respect international law, while denouncing double standards in the application of international law, international humanitarian law and the Charter of United Nations.
The statement also called on the Security Council to take a decision compelling Israel to end these illegal policies that undermine peace and security in the region and to implement relevant United Nations resolutions related to the city of Al -Quds Acharif.
She further called for providing all forms of political, diplomatic support and international protection to the Palestinian people and the State of Palestine, to consolidate Palestinian national unity in order to allow the State of Palestine to establish its authority. throughout the Palestinian territory, including the Gaza Strip, and to unify it with the West Bank, including the city of Al-Quds, while providing economic support to the State of Palestine through support for its efforts in terms of humanitarian aid programs, economic recovery and reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.
Time.news Interview with Dr. Ahmad Al-Sayed, Middle Eastern Politics Expert
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Al-Sayed! Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent Riyadh Summit and its implications for the Palestinian cause and broader regional dynamics.
Dr. Al-Sayed: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such a crucial topic.
Editor: The Riyadh Summit recently underscored the rights of the Palestinian people, emphasizing their right to freedom and an independent state. How significant is this reaffirmation in the current geopolitical climate?
Dr. Al-Sayed: The reaffirmation of Palestinian rights at the Riyadh Summit is indeed significant. It comes at a time when the Palestinian issue is increasingly under pressure from various geopolitical shifts, including normalization agreements between some Arab states and Israel. By restating their commitment to the 1967 borders and recognizing Al Quds as the capital of an independent Palestinian state, the participating nations are sending a strong message of unity and support for Palestinian self-determination.
Editor: The communiqué also mentioned the importance of protecting the Arab and Islamic identity of occupied Al Quds-East. How does this tie into broader regional sentiments?
Dr. Al-Sayed: Protecting Al Quds is paramount for both Arab and Islamic nations; it is viewed as a sacred city with profound historical and spiritual significance. The statement reflects a collective sentiment that any actions aimed at altering its status—whether through settlement expansions or other means—are unacceptable. This unity strengthens the Arab resolve to oppose any such measures, reinforcing their cultural and religious connection to the city.
Editor: In addition to the Palestinian issue, the Summit expressed support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and security. Could you elaborate on how these two issues are interconnected?
Dr. Al-Sayed: The security and stability of Lebanon are intricately linked to the Palestinian cause. The Israeli actions in Gaza and their repercussions on the broader region have direct implications for Lebanon, especially regarding Hezbollah and other groups operating there. By expressing total mobilization to support Lebanon, the Summit indicates that the regional powers recognize the need for a stable Lebanon as a counterbalance to ongoing Israeli aggressions, which could otherwise escalate tensions throughout the region.
Editor: The Summit also reiterated decisions from the earlier 2023 Extraordinary Arab-Islamic Summit. How does continuity in these resolutions impact regional diplomacy?
Dr. Al-Sayed: Continuity in these resolutions underscores a persistent commitment among Arab and Islamic nations to address the Palestinian issue comprehensively. It demonstrates regional solidarity in tackling not only the immediate humanitarian concerns stemming from the Israeli actions in Gaza and Lebanon but also long-term solutions that include political recognition and support for Palestinian rights. This consistent approach can enhance diplomatic efforts and potentially lead to a more unified regional stance in negotiations with Israel and international stakeholders.
Editor: what are the potential implications of the Riyadh Summit’s outcomes for future peace negotiations in the region?
Dr. Al-Sayed: The outcomes of the Riyadh Summit could serve as a critical foundation for future peace negotiations, providing a platform for Arab states to present a unified front. It could also encourage non-Arab Muslim countries to engage in solidarity efforts. This enhanced diplomatic engagement may compel Israel to reconsider its policies towards Palestinians. However, the path to peace is complex and requires both sides to be willing to engage constructively. The affirmations made at the Summit will hopefully foster an environment conducive to dialogue and compromise.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Al-Sayed, for these insightful comments. It’s clear that the Riyadh Summit has significant implications not just for Palestine, but for regional stability as a whole.
Dr. Al-Sayed: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial to keep these discussions alive as we navigate these complex issues.