UAE Welcomes International Court of Justice Opinion on Israeli Settlements
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has welcomed the International Court of Justice (ICJ) recent declaration.
The declaration considers Israel’s settlement policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem a violation of international law.
UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized its rejection of all actions that aim to alter the historical and legal status quo in the occupied Palestinian territories.
It also condemned practices contrary to international legitimacy, which threaten further escalation and tension in the region and hinder peace and stability efforts.
The ministry underscored the importance of supporting regional and international efforts to advance the Middle East peace process.
And also to put an end for illegal practices that jeopardize the two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
Legal Opinion and Regional Responses Regarding the ICJ Declaration
GCC Secretary-General’s Statement:
Jassim Mohammed Al-Bidoor, the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), welcomed the ICJ’s legal opinion.
Emphasizing that it confirms and strengthens the legitimate and legal rights of the Palestinian people.
He called for the implementation of international decisions to reclaim Palestinian territories occupied by Israeli forces.
Positive Step:
The Muslim World League also welcomed the ICJ’s advisory opinion.
Considering it a positive step toward achieving human and legal rights for the Palestinian people.
The League also emphasized the need for a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue.
Ensuring their right to self-determination and an independent state.
This is in line with the Arab Peace Initiative and relevant international resolutions.
Saudi Arabia’s Stance:
Saudi Arabia expressed its welcome for the International Court of Justice opinion.
Affirming that Israel’s presence in the occupied Palestinian territories for 57 years is illegal.
Oman’s Call for Implementation:
Oman welcomed the ICJ’s opinion and urged the international community to implement decisions and international conventions calling for the immediate end of the illegal occupation of Palestinian lands and the cessation of settlements and violence in the Palestinian territories.
Oman reiterated its support for granting the Palestinian people their established right to an independent state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Qatar’s Position:
Qatar also welcomed the ICJ’s advisory opinion.
Emphasizing that Israel is bound to end its illegal presence in the occupied Palestinian territories and East Jerusalem.
The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the ICJ’s opinion covers the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza.
Recognizing them as a single territorial unit that must be preserved, connected, and respected.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, may God protect him, awarded His Excellency Jakub Kasper Slawek, Ambassador of the Republic of Poland, the Order of Independence, First Class, on the occasion of the end of his term as his country’s… pic.twitter.com/B1b5dkqreJ
— UAE Voice (@uae_voiceeng) July 19, 2024
UN General Assembly will decide how to proceed after receiving the International Court of Justice opinion
In New York, Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, confirmed that Secretary-General António Guterres will promptly refer the ICJ’s opinion to the UN General Assembly, which comprises 193 member states.
The General Assembly will decide how to proceed on this matter.
These responses collectively highlight the significance of the International Court of Justice opinion in advancing justice for the Palestinian people.
They also underscore the need for continued international efforts toward a just and comprehensive resolution of the Palestinian issue.
