Cairo, December 18, 2023, Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit has strongly condemned the Israeli occupation's attacks on civilians in Gaza, describing them as part of a malevolent plan with clear objectives. Speaking at the 31st ministerial session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) at the Arab League headquarters in Cairo, Aboul Gheit emphasized that the Israeli occupation is not merely targeting a political movement but rather seeking to destroy an entire society, disrupting its fabric and undermining the prospect of life in the Gaza Strip for an extended period.
He highlighted that this sinister plan aims to eradicate the Palestinian cause by either rendering their land uninhabitable or forcibly displacing them, objectives that Israeli leaders openly articulate. Aboul Gheit expressed concern that each passing day of the conflict pushes the region further away from the internationally accepted two-state solution, emphasizing that even in the face of significant civilian casualties, the Palestinian people will not relinquish their right to land and life.
Calling for an immediate ceasefire to safeguard regional security and stability, Aboul Gheit expressed apprehension about the reckless actions posing a threat in the Red Sea, negatively impacting the Arab region's economy. He underscored the importance of addressing various topics related to ESCWA's activities during its annual ministerial meetings, emphasizing that development is unattainable without peace and stability.