GCC expresses concern over Palestinian, Sudanese crisis

Muscat – The Gulf Cooperation Council states have called on the international community to intervene to stop Israel’s unilateral actions against Palestinians and expressed their deep concern over the recent violence in Sudan, which has led to a deteriorating human rights situation.

The six-member bloc stated that it is disturbed by Israel’s actions in the city of Jerusalem and attempts to change its legal character, population structure and arrangements at holy Islamic sites.

The bloc also condemned the construction of settlements in Occupied Palestinian territories and rejected any move by Israel to annex these or impose Israeli sovereignty on them, as such actions constitute a clear violation of international legitimacy.

This condemnation came in a statement delivered by H E Idris Abdul Rahman al Khanjari, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Oman to the United Nations in Geneva, on behalf of the GCC states during an interactive dialogue on Palestine and Sudan at the 53rd Regular Session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva.

H E Khanjari added that the GCC states commend all efforts exerted within the framework of reviving the Arab Peace Initiative, the Arab efforts to reach a truce and ceasefire between the Palestinian and Israeli sides, and that they support all requests for the state of Palestine to obtain full membership in the United Nations.

Sudan violence

Emphasising the importance of maintaining Sudan’s security, safety and stability, the GCC states stressed the need for calm, dialogue and unity, and alleviation of the suffering of the Sudanese people.

H E Idris al Khanjari highlighted the significant efforts exerted by the GCC states in building humanitarian bridges, evacuating civilians and addressing urgent humanitarian needs.

“The GCC bloc is fully committed to restoring Sudan’s security, safety and stability,” he said.

The bloc also lauded the relentless efforts of Saudi Arabia and the US to facilitate a peaceful resolution among Sudanese political forces and parties.

“The aim is to foster dialogue, bridge differences and reach an agreement that prevents the scourge of wars and conflicts, fulfils aspirations and contributes to Sudan’s security, stability and prosperity across all sectors. It is crucial to ensure respect for Sudan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence throughout this process.”

The GCC states called upon the international community to provide urgent humanitarian and medical assistance to Sudan.