BRICS Leaders Advocate for Palestinian Statehood and Urgent Ceasefire

During the October 23, 2024 summit, BRICS leaders expressed their support for Palestine’s full UN membership and called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza amid ongoing humanitarian crises. They highlighted the need for humanitarian assistance and adhere to international law, condemning attacks against UN personnel, and advocated for a two-state solution based on established frameworks.

On October 23, 2024, BRICS leaders reiterated their support for the full membership of the State of Palestine in the United Nations, emphasizing their commitment to a two-state solution grounded in international law. They expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts of Egypt, Qatar, and other regional and international partners seeking to achieve an immediate ceasefire, enhance humanitarian aid deliveries, and facilitate the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip. This affirmation was conveyed through the Kazan Declaration, which was made public via the Kremlin’s official website, as reported by the Russian news agency, Sputnik. The Kazan Declaration underscored the assertion that the State of Palestine should be established as a sovereign and independent entity in accordance with internationally recognized borders defined as of June 1967, with East Jerusalem designated as its capital. It insisted on peaceful coexistence with Israel, informed by established principles such as United Nations Security Council resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative. Moreover, the BRICS leaders denounced assaults on UN staff members and threats to their safety, urging Israel to cease these actions immediately. They conveyed deep concern regarding the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian territories, which has been exacerbated by Israeli military actions, resulting in civilian casualties, mass displacement, and extensive damage to infrastructural facilities. The statement delineated an urgent need for the implementation of a comprehensive ceasefire within the Gaza Strip, advocating for the unconditional release of all hostages and detainees held by either party. Furthermore, BRICS leaders condemned the Israeli strikes on humanitarian operations, calling for adherence to specific UN Security Council resolutions that advocate for humanitarian protection. They also reaffirmed the necessity of creating a nuclear-weapon-free zone and eliminating other weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East.

The BRICS summit, attended by leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, seeks to present a unified front on various global issues, including those pertaining to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The current humanitarian crisis in Gaza, resulting from ongoing military operations and subsequent civilian impacts, has drawn international attention and concern. The BRICS Declaration represents an effort to extend diplomatic support for Palestine, articulating a vision for peace that aligns with established international law and UN resolutions. The organization’s emphasis on a two-state solution illustrates a commitment to fostering dialogue and resolution in a historically complex geopolitical landscape.

In summary, the BRICS leaders have taken a definitive stance in support of Palestinian statehood and the urgent need for a ceasefire amid escalating violence in Gaza. Their collective call for humanitarian assistance and condemnation of attacks on UN personnel underscores the organization’s commitment to international law and human rights. The Kazan Declaration serves as a critical affirmation of BRICS’s role in advocating for peace and stability in the region, while continuing to support initiatives aimed at resolving the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Original Source: www.egypttoday.com