ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA – Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi called on the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to continue fighting for the Palestinian issue.
This was conveyed by Retno at the 15th Session of the Islamic Summit Conference “Enhancing Unity And Solidarity Through Dialogue For Sustainable Development” at the OIC High Level Conference in Banjul, Gambia, Saturday, May 4 2024.
Palestine is one of two issues considered urgent for Indonesia to address at the OIC. Retno said that the Palestinian issue is at the core of the OIC.
According to him, the OIC owes independence to the Palestinian people. Therefore, he reminded the Arab Peace Initiative and the OIC’s decision that peace with Israel is only possible if that country stops colonization of Palestine.
“This decision sends a strong message to Israel: Without independence for Palestine, there is no possibility of diplomatic relations. This message and decision must be maintained,” he said, quoted in an official statement, Sunday, May 5 2024.
Retno explained that Israel’s military attacks over the past seven months were the worst atrocities in the modern world. More than 34,000 Palestinians were killed by Israel, which means genocide.
Meanwhile, humanitarian aid continues to be obstructed as threats to attack Rafah continue. On the other hand, Palestinian membership in the UN has always been hindered.
“In this difficult situation, the OIC must unite to defend justice and humanity for the Palestinian people,” he said.
On the same occasion, Retno reminded the OIC countries that there are three things that must be done.
First, the main focus is to remain united to help Palestine, especially in distributing humanitarian aid.
Second, continue to push for a permanent ceasefire as soon as possible.
Third, prevent further escalation.
Previously, the Turkiye government announced that it would not resume trade with Israel worth US$7 billion per year until a permanent ceasefire and humanitarian aid were guaranteed in Gaza, as of Friday, May 3, 2024.
Turkiye became the first Israeli partner country to stop exports and imports to Israel.
Turkiye Trade Minister Omer Bolat chose this step due to Israel’s uncompromising attitude and the worsening situation in the Rafah area, Gaza.
Bolat said Turkiye is holding talks with Palestinians regarding alternative arrangements to ensure that they are not affected by this decision.
Last month, Turkiye restricted exports of steel, fertilizer and jet fuel among 54 product categories over what it said was Israel’s refusal to allow Ankara to take part in an aid drop into Gaza.
Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Israel Katz criticized Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan’s move, which came into effect on Thursday evening.
“This violates international trade agreements and is the behavior of a dictator,” he said.
On the other hand, the Hamas militant group, which controls Gaza, praised Turkiye’s decision as brave and supportive of Palestinian rights. This marks Ankara’s strongest move after months of sharp criticism of Israel’s military campaign, which has devastated the densely populated Palestinian territory.
Erdogan has faced pressure from within the country to take more concrete action.
“Turkiye cannot remain silent in the face of Israel’s bombardment of defenseless Palestinians,” stressed Erdogan. (AT Network)
Check out other news and articles at Google News and WA Channel