Online Reporter
Fungai Lupande
PALESTINE is actively seeking support from African nations in global efforts to achieve a ceasefire, whether temporary or permanent, in the wake of renewed attacks in Gaza.
During a recent training session for African journalists in Cairo, Egypt, the Palestinian Ambassador to Egypt, Diab al-Louh, emphasised the significant impact that all 56 Arab and non-Arab countries can have in advocating for a ceasefire.
He noted that although nearly 150 countries recognised Palestine, Israel refused to engage in negotiations or acknowledge Palestinian sovereignty.
The Palestinian leadership aspires to obtain permanent membership in the United Nations and has signed over 110 international agreements, with a willingness to commit to more.
Ambassador al-Louh highlighted the importance of having two African members on the Security Council for their cause.
He expressed gratitude to countries that have voted for Palestine and are working to persuade those that have not to change their stance.
“These are the directives of the Palestinian Government and leadership around the world. Some countries that were previously not with us have now come to support our cause,” he said.
“We do not dwell on the negative positions of those who oppose us or do not vote in our favour. Our focus is on efforts, communication, and the support of God.”
He mentioned that some countries’ non-voting positions can be influenced by financial constraints or political pressure.
Ambassador al-Louh stressed the need for support from Arab, non-Arab, African, and Asian countries to achieve their primary objective which is an immediate cessation of the violence and human suffering occurring in Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem.
He highlighted the dire humanitarian situation, stating that Palestinians in Gaza are facing a complete blockade and lack basic necessities such as housing, water, food, and medicine.
“Daily casualties are not just statistics; every life matters,” he said.
“Over 50 000 have been martyred, and more than 160 000 have been injured, many suffering amputations.”
The Ambassador pointed out that Palestinians have endured over a century of occupation and colonialism, particularly since 1948, which has led to widespread displacement.
He explained that the current violence and atrocities echo the shared experiences of many African nations.
“Palestinian liberation movements are similar to those in Africa, underscoring our common struggle. Many African nations resisted colonialism and achieved independence; they are now working collaboratively with other African countries based on these historic ties,” he said.
“In contrast, Palestine remains under occupation, despite having established institutions since the Oslo Agreement, signed in the White House with the late President Yasser Arafat, Israeli Prime Minister Rabin, and current Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, facilitated by then President Clinton.
“Our immediate goal is to put an end to the ongoing war against the Palestinian people and the genocide initiated by Israel since October 7, 2023.”
Ambassador al-Louh reported that over 90 percent of the Gaza Strip has been devastated, affecting areas in the West Bank, including Jenin, Tulkarm, Nablus, Salfit, Tubas, and Jerusalem.
He highlighted that the West Bank is fragmented by 770 military checkpoints, and settlements have been built around Jerusalem to isolate Palestinians and prevent the emergence of a unified Palestinian state.
“Approximately 1,8 million Palestinians remained in what is now Israel after the 1948 Nakba, while others were displaced to Jordan, Syria, Egypt, and beyond, accounting for around 5,5 million refugees,” he said.
