OIC Backs Arab Counter-Proposal for Gaza Reconstruction
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) reaffirmed its support on Friday for an Arab League-backed counter-proposal to former US President Donald Trump’s contentious Gaza plan. During an emergency meeting of foreign ministers in Jeddah, the OIC endorsed Egypt’s initiative to rebuild war-ravaged Gaza under Palestinian Authority governance.
OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha underscored his commitment to the proposal, emphasizing the Palestinian people’s right to remain in their homeland. A post-meeting statement confirmed the OIC’s alignment with the Arab League’s stance on Gaza’s reconstruction efforts.
Read More: Egypt unveils a $53 billion Gaza reconstruction plan
Meanwhile, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, a key figure in mediating ceasefire talks between Hamas and Israel, urged the OIC to expand the initiative beyond Arab nations, transforming it into a broader Islamic-led plan for Gaza’s rehabilitation.
A senior Pakistani diplomat, speaking anonymously to AFP, confirmed that the meeting’s primary goal was to secure formal OIC approval for the Arab proposal, providing a structured roadmap for Gaza’s recovery.
The discussions took place amid rising regional tensions, notably after Israel’s recent decision to block humanitarian aid to Gaza during Ramadan
Pakistan Strongly Condemns Israel’s Aid Blockade in Gaza
Pakistan has issued a strong condemnation of Israel’s move to halt humanitarian aid from reaching Gaza during Ramadan, calling it a violation of international law and an act of collective punishment.
In a statement released on Thursday, Pakistan’s Foreign Office denounced Israel’s decision in the strongest possible terms, describing it as part of a systematic strategy to deprive millions of Palestinians of critical humanitarian assistance. The statement further cautioned that such actions threaten ongoing ceasefire efforts.
Pakistan urged the global community to intervene immediately, ensuring unrestricted humanitarian access to Gaza while holding Israel accountable for its actions.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate, with aid organizations warning of severe shortages of food, medical supplies, and essential resources amid ongoing hostilities.
