Jeddah: Kuwaiti Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Al-Yahya restated Kuwait's firm commitment to supporting the Palestinian people and their legitimate rights through humanitarian and political efforts. He addressed the extraordinary ministerial meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Jeddah, emphasizing the importance of working with OIC member states to ensure the Palestinian cause reaches the international community, aiming for just and comprehensive peace.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Al-Yahya highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting the ongoing humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians in Gaza due to aggression resulting in significant loss of life and destruction. He called for an immediate cessation of Israeli aggression in the Gaza Strip and all occupied Palestinian territories, stressing the need to stop targeting civilians and infrastructure.
The Kuwaiti foreign minister advocated for the unconditional reopening of all crossings and the delivery of humanitarian and medical aid to Gaza. He also announced Kuwait's recent humanitarian campaign worth nearly USD 32 million to provide urgent relief aid to Gazans, demonstrating solidarity with them.
Al-Yahya criticized the settlement policy and the risks it poses to Palestinian territorial integrity and the potential establishment of an independent Palestinian state. He condemned any form of forced displacement aimed at changing the demography of Palestinian territories, affirming the right of Palestinian refugees to return home.
He denounced recent statements by Israeli authorities concerning the so-called "Greater Israel," viewing them as a violation of international law and a threat to international peace and security. Kuwait expressed deep concern over the policies of Israeli forces, including the use of starvation, labeling it a serious violation of international law and United Nations Security Council resolutions.
The minister urged OIC member states to take a decisive stance against these practices and work to protect Palestinian civilians. He praised the outcomes of a recent OIC meeting in Istanbul, which advocated for the bi-state approach as the only strategic option for achieving lasting peace.
Al-Yahya reiterated Kuwait's support for a Palestinian state on the June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international resolutions and the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative. He commended countries recognizing the State of Palestine and urged the implementation of International Court of Justice rulings to uphold international law and protect civilians.
He called on Muslim countries to take effective steps to support Muslim communities, safeguard holy sites, and alleviate the suffering of Palestinians. He also expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia for its efforts to advance the causes of the Muslim world, given its role as the OIC headquarters.