Muslim group rejects forced displacement of Palestinians, backs Gaza reconstruction plan

By Ibrahim Khazen, Ali Semerci and Gizem Nisa Cebi

JEDDAH/ISTANBUL (AA) - The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) held an extraordinary foreign ministers meeting Friday in Saudi Arabia to address the situation in Palestine and rejected the forced displacement of Palestinians while endorsing an Arab plan for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.

OIC Secretary-General Hussein Ibrahim Taha emphasized the group’s commitment to the Palestinian people’s right to remain on their land and highlighted the significance of the reconstruction plan adopted at a March 4 Arab League summit in Cairo.

"This plan represents a shared and realistic vision within an integrated political and economic framework aimed at achieving a two-state solution," said Taha and he urged swift financial and political mobilization for implementation.

Taha warned of "Israel’s unacceptable actions and the dangers of its attempts to eliminate the Palestinian refugee issue," stressing that the meeting took place amid continued occupation, annexation efforts and forced displacement.

He demanded intensified efforts to establish a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza, full withdrawal of Israeli forces, unhindered humanitarian aid delivery and the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes.

The meeting formally adopted Egypt’s proposed reconstruction plan and issued a resolution urging the international community, along with regional and global financial institutions, to provide immediate support.

The resolution also underscored the necessity of a political path toward a just and lasting resolution that realizes the Palestinian people's aspirations for statehood.

Additionally, Taha called for international protection for Palestinians and urged support for the government to ensure governance across Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

He stressed the importance of implementing relief efforts, economic recovery programs and reconstruction initiatives to stabilize the region.