Cairo: Arab governments and organizations on Friday condemned Israel's decision to fully reoccupy the Gaza Strip, calling it a violation of international law and a continuation of the campaign of genocide against Palestinians. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, in a phone call with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, warned that the Israeli plan could trigger a 'new catastrophe' and reaffirmed Cairo's rejection of any attempt to forcibly displace Palestinians.
According to Anadolu Agency, a statement from the Egyptian presidency emphasized Sisi's concerns that such actions would undermine efforts aimed at reaching a ceasefire and delivering humanitarian aid. Sisi reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to defending Palestinian rights and preventing regional escalation. Abbas expressed gratitude for Egypt's unwavering support and highlighted plans to raise the issue before international bodies like the UN Security Council, Arab League, and Organization of Islamic Cooperation. He called for an immediate Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the release of hostages and detainees, and the restoration of Palestinian Authority control over the enclave.
In Jordan, the government echoed these sentiments by rejecting the Israeli plan and labeling it a serious breach of international law. Foreign Ministry spokesman Sufian Al-Qudah stated that the plan undermines the two-state solution and represents an extension of extremist policies using starvation and siege against Palestinians. He emphasized Israel's obligations under international humanitarian law and called for an immediate ceasefire and opening of crossings to deliver aid.
Saudi Arabia also expressed strong condemnation through its Foreign Ministry, denouncing any Israeli move to control Gaza as a clear violation of international humanitarian law. The ministry criticized Israel's inhumane practices and urged urgent international action to halt aggression and protect civilians. The Kingdom reiterated its support for a two-state solution based on 1967 borders.
Kuwait's Foreign Ministry joined in the denunciation, calling Israel's reoccupation plan a flagrant violation of international law and a challenge to global legitimacy. It warned against the move's impact on efforts to establish a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The United Arab Emirates warned of catastrophic consequences from the Israeli decision, emphasizing the need for immediate international intervention. The UAE's Foreign Ministry stressed that protecting Palestinian rights is a moral, humanitarian, and legal necessity.
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit condemned the plan, warning that Israel is exploiting global inaction to pursue its objectives. He described the reoccupation plan as indicative of Israel's intentions to control Gaza and forcibly expel its population.
The Arab Parliament echoed these sentiments, calling Israel's decision a dangerous and aggressive act in violation of international law. It urged the international community to pressure Israel to halt its aggression and protect Palestinian civilians.
Israel's Security Cabinet approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to fully occupy Gaza City amid mounting outrage over its military actions, which have resulted in significant casualties and devastation in Gaza. The International Criminal Court and International Court of Justice are also involved in legal actions against Israel for alleged war crimes and genocide.