Cairo, December 5, 2024 – On the occasion of Arab Expatriate Day, observed annually on December 4, the Arab League issued a strong and unequivocal statement reaffirming its condemnation of Israel's ongoing efforts to forcibly displace Palestinian residents in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem. The statement also condemned Israel’s persistent attempts to undermine the issue of Palestinian refugees, particularly through the dismantling of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which has long been a cornerstone in addressing the humanitarian needs of Palestinian refugees.
The Arab League reiterated its commitment to the Palestinian cause, emphasizing the dire situation of Palestinian refugees, who continue to endure displacement and suffering as a result of Israeli actions. The League called on the international community to stand firm in upholding the rights of Palestinian refugees, particularly their right to return to their homes from which they were forcibly displaced, in line with United Nations General Assembly Resolution 194 of 1948. This resolution, which enshrines the right of Palestinian refugees to return to their land, remains a critical pillar of international law and the foundation for a just and lasting resolution to the Palestinian issue.
In addition to addressing the situation in Palestine, the Arab League also condemned the recent Israeli bombardment of Lebanon, which led to significant displacement and civilian casualties, including among refugees. The bombardment, which has further exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the region, has led to widespread destruction and suffering, particularly in areas already grappling with the challenges of displacement and refugee resettlement. The Arab League called for immediate international intervention to alleviate the suffering of civilians affected by the conflict.
The Arab League’s statement underscored the urgent need to support Palestinian refugees through humanitarian efforts, with a strong emphasis on ensuring that UNRWA continues to function effectively. The organization plays a critical role in providing education, healthcare, and emergency relief to Palestinian refugees in the region, and its work is increasingly threatened by attempts to undermine its operations. The League called for continued international support for UNRWA’s mission, highlighting its vital role in addressing the needs of Palestinian refugees and in ensuring the protection of their rights, dignity, and well-being.
In conclusion, the Arab League’s statement serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing plight of Palestinian refugees and the urgent need for international solidarity in addressing the humanitarian crisis. It also highlights the critical role of UNRWA in providing essential services to those displaced by the conflict, and the continued importance of international resolutions that uphold the rights of Palestinian refugees, including the right to return to their homeland.