New York, 26 October 2023 (TDI): During the UN General Assembly emergency meeting on Gaza, Iran’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, expressed deep concern about the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the West Bank.

He went so far as to label it a “war crime and genocide” committed by the Israeli regime.

He objected to the United States and some European countries’ support for Israel and denounced their labeling of the Palestinian liberation movement as “terrorists.”

Amir-Abdollahian urged the United States to shift its priorities from military actions to peace and security, emphasizing the need to halt what he termed the “genocide” unfolding in Gaza and Palestine.

He conveyed a stern warning, indicating that those managing the conflict could not escape the repercussions if the dire situation in Gaza persisted.

He also underscored the paramount importance of safeguarding the security of the region and pledged a steadfast commitment to its defense.

Regarding negotiations, Amir-Abdollahian mentioned that Hamas had indicated its willingness to release civilian prisoners and urged the international community to rally behind the release of more than 6,000 Palestinians currently held in Israeli prisons.

Speaking on behalf of the Arab Group, Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister, Ayman Safadi, called for a resolute stance in support of peace, human values, and adherence to the UN Charter.

Also Read: UNGA Session: Ambassador Mansour addresses Israel-Palestine Crisis 

He emphasized the necessity of unwavering commitment to a clear and principled stance, asserting that ambiguity had no place in the situation.

Safadi stressed the imperative of standing up for peace, human values, and the principles outlined in the UN Charter.

In light of the ongoing violence, Safadi highlighted the alarming rhetoric from some members of the Israeli government who advocated for the complete eradication of Palestinians.

He decried the dire conditions in Gaza, expressing concerns about the lasting trauma it would inflict on future generations.

Safadi called upon Israel to uphold its values and emphasized that the right to self-defense should not be misconstrued as a license for impunity, underscoring that Israel could not remain above international law.

Safadi revealed that, in response to the UN Security Council’s inaction, Jordan, on behalf of the Arab Group, would present a draft resolution.

He urged nations to support this resolution and make a strong statement, calling for a collective effort to denounce further bloodshed and unite in the pursuit of peace and stability.

Concluding his address, Safadi called for a moment of silence to commemorate the innocent civilians who had lost their lives during the conflict, underscoring the importance of a firm and clear commitment to peace and life.