The international community reaffirmed its support for the Palestinian people this week, with the Sultanate of Oman delivering a powerful statement at the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People event in Geneva. The annual observance, first adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1977, serves as a critical platform to highlight the ongoing plight of Palestinians and advocate for their fundamental rights, including the right to self-determination and a viable, independent state. Oman’s renewed commitment underscores the persistent need for a just resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and resonates deeply amidst escalating challenges in the region.
Oman Reiterates Support for Palestinian Rights in Geneva
Addressing the United Nations and International Organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Idris Abdul Rahman Al-Khanjari, Permanent Representative of the Sultanate of Oman, emphasized the significance of November 29th as a day dedicated to acknowledging and upholding the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people. His statement wasn’t simply a formality; it was a firm restatement of Oman’s longstanding position advocating for a two-state solution based on the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state. This position aligns with numerous resolutions of international legitimacy and reflects a consistent diplomatic effort to secure a fair and lasting peace.
The Continuing Suffering of the Palestinian People
Ambassador Al-Khanjari didn’t shy away from detailing the realities faced by Palestinians. He highlighted the continued suffering stemming from the ongoing occupation and a range of illegal measures that severely restrict their daily lives. These include limitations on freedom of movement, the continued expansion of illegal settlements, the forced displacement of communities, and recurring attacks on holy sites. He stressed that these actions represent a stark violation of international law and the principles underpinning the international community’s commitment to human rights. The situation in the Gaza Strip, marked by recent escalations and a deepening humanitarian crisis, was particularly noted, with widespread displacement and a dramatic decline in living conditions.
Oman’s concern extends beyond the humanitarian impact. The lack of progress towards a resolution, coupled with these concerning practices, fuels regional instability. A just and lasting solution, the Sultanate argues, is crucial not only for the Palestinian people but for enhancing security and stability throughout the Middle East.
A Call for Concrete Action & International Responsibility
The Sultanate of Oman’s statement went further than simply expressing sympathy. Ambassador Al-Khanjari issued a strong call to the international community, urging all nations to translate their expressions of solidarity into concrete actions. He emphasized that on this symbolically important day, it is the responsibility of the global community to uphold legal and humanitarian obligations. This includes proactively working to mitigate the violations of Palestinian rights and fostering an environment conducive to a just and enduring peace.
Oman’s vision for peace is rooted in the framework established by United Nations resolutions, demanding a comprehensive settlement that guarantees an independent Palestinian state with full sovereignty. The Sultanate believes this is the only pathway to genuine and lasting peace, a peace that addresses the core issues of displacement, settlements, and the final status of Jerusalem. The focus remains on achieving a viable two-state solution.
Moving Beyond Condemnation: A Plea for Justice
His Excellency pointedly argued that the world needs more than mere condemnations of the ongoing violence and injustices. He passionately stated, “The Sultanate of Oman believes that the world today needs more than statements of condemnation; it needs a genuine will to restore justice to its true meaning, human conscience to its voice, and peace to its value.” This sentiment speaks to a growing frustration within the international community regarding the lack of tangible progress towards resolving the conflict.
The Ambassador emphasized that demonstrable action is required, moving beyond postponed promises to practical deeds that will finally end the decades-long suffering of the Palestinian people. He highlighted that true solidarity requires more than symbolic gestures; it requires a concerted effort to address the root causes of the conflict and secure a future where Palestinians can live in peace, dignity, and security. Oman’s stance on the Palestinian issue remains unwavering, consistently advocating for their legitimate rights on the global stage and pushing for a genuine commitment to international law.
The Road Ahead for a Just Peace
The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People in Geneva provided a crucial moment for Oman to reaffirm its dedication to achieving a just and lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Sultanate’s message resonated powerfully, urging the international community to move beyond rhetoric and embrace tangible steps towards securing the Palestinian people’s rights. This includes actively promoting the implementation of relevant UN resolutions, addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and creating a political environment where meaningful negotiations can take place. Oman’s continued advocacy for a two-state solution, based on the 1967 borders and with East Jerusalem as the capital, remains a central tenet of its foreign policy and a vital contribution to the pursuit of peace in the region. Further discussions and sustained diplomatic efforts are necessary to ensure the fundamental rights of the Palestinian people are finally realized and the cycle of violence is broken, building a future based on mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. Supporting the Palestinian people is not just a moral imperative, but a critical step towards achieving regional stability.
