The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has expressed support for the implementation of the second phase of a UN-backed peace plan for Gaza, alongside the establishment of a Palestinian committee to administer the region during a transitional period. This development, announced following United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803, marks a potential shift in the ongoing efforts to achieve a lasting peace process in the region. The OIC’s statement, released from its headquarters in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, underscores the need for a comprehensive and sustainable resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The OIC’s endorsement comes as international actors seek to stabilize Gaza following recent escalations in violence. The organization specifically called for continued pressure on Israel to cease actions perceived as undermining the possibility of a two-state solution, including settlement expansion and the withholding of Palestinian tax revenues. This support signals a renewed focus on diplomatic efforts to address the complex challenges facing the Palestinian territories.
OIC Backs Gaza Peace Process and Palestinian Authority
The OIC General Secretariat emphasized the critical importance of maintaining the territorial and administrative unity of Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. This unity, they argue, is essential for the viability of any future Palestinian state. According to the OIC, preserving this connection is paramount to ensuring the long-term stability and self-governance of the Palestinian people.
Key Concerns and Demands
The OIC statement outlined several key concerns regarding the current situation. These include the need to halt Israeli policies that impede the two-state solution, such as annexation and the “Judaization” of Jerusalem. Additionally, the organization demanded the immediate release of Palestinian tax revenues, which Israel has reportedly withheld, impacting the Palestinian Authority’s ability to provide essential services.
However, the path forward remains fraught with challenges. The formation of the Palestinian committee is intended as a temporary measure, and its effectiveness will depend on its ability to navigate the complex political landscape and address the immediate humanitarian needs of the Gazan population. The committee’s mandate and composition are still being finalized, according to reports from Palestinian officials.
Meanwhile, the OIC reiterated its support for enabling the Palestinian government to fully exercise its authority over all Palestinian territories occupied since 1967. This includes the ultimate goal of establishing an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with UN resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative. This long-held position reflects the OIC’s commitment to a negotiated settlement based on internationally recognized principles.
The international community has largely welcomed the initial steps outlined in Resolution 2803, but significant hurdles remain. The resolution itself faced opposition from some quarters, highlighting the deep divisions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The United States, a key mediator in the region, has expressed cautious optimism, urging all parties to engage constructively in the diplomatic efforts.
In contrast to the OIC’s strong stance, Israel has maintained its position on security concerns and the need for guarantees against future attacks from Gaza. Israeli officials have indicated a willingness to discuss the implementation of the resolution, but have also emphasized their commitment to protecting their citizens. This divergence in perspectives underscores the difficulty of achieving a breakthrough.
The OIC’s statement also comes amid broader regional developments, including ongoing efforts to normalize relations between Israel and several Arab states. This normalization process, while potentially offering new avenues for dialogue, has also been criticized by some Palestinians who fear it could undermine their claims for statehood. The impact of these shifting alliances on the Gaza situation remains to be seen.
Looking ahead, the next critical step will be the full operationalization of the Palestinian committee and its ability to establish a functioning administration in Gaza. The committee is expected to present a detailed plan for governance within the coming weeks. The success of this initiative will hinge on securing the cooperation of all relevant stakeholders, including Israel, Egypt, and the international community. The timeline for achieving a lasting peace remains uncertain, and continued monitoring of the situation is crucial.
