In a rare and united stance, sixteen Arab and Muslim-majority countries — including Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, Egypt, Jordan, Pakistan, and Indonesia — have jointly condemned Israel's unlawful claim of sovereignty over the occupied Palestinian territories. The declaration came after the Israeli Knesset passed two controversial draft laws to annex the West Bank and illegal settlements, violating international resolutions and human rights principles.The statement, released by the Saudi Arabian Foreign Ministry, described the move as a flagrant breach of international law and UN Resolution 2334, which forbids any attempt to change the status or demographic character of the occupied lands, including East Jerusalem. The nations reaffirmed that Israel has no legal or moral right to sovereignty over Palestinian territories.
Signatories include Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Türkiye, Djibouti, Oman, Gambia, Palestine, Qatar, Kuwait, Libya, Malaysia, Egypt, Nigeria, the Arab League, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Their joint statement aligns with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling of October 22, 2025, which declared Israel's actions illegal and void under global law.
The ICJ emphasized Israel's duty to end forced transfers, starvation, and displacement of civilians, ensuring access to essential needs. It reaffirmed Palestinians' right to self-determination and the establishment of a sovereign state with East Jerusalem as its capital — the only path to true and lasting peace.
From an Islamic view, this unity reflects the Qur'anic call to uphold justice and defend the oppressed:
"Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah..." (Qur'an 4:135).
Nigeria's participation drew praise from scholars, who noted that its involvement symbolizes Africa's voice for justice, dignity, and peace in defending the oppressed people of Palestine and Al-Quds (Jerusalem).
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