Arabs reject displacement of Gazans

Amid rising concerns over the potential forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza, the six-party Arab ministerial meeting in Cairo reaffirmed its categorical rejection of any such move and emphasized the need for the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement, reports Saudi Gazette.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the ministers reiterated their commitment to working with US President Donald Trump’s administration to achieve a two-state solution, stressing the importance of a sustainable ceasefire that ensures the safe and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to all parts of Gaza.

The meeting also underscored support for ongoing mediation efforts led by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States to ensure the phased execution of the ceasefire agreement and the eventual achievement of full de-escalation.

Ministers called for the removal of all obstacles hindering entry of humanitarian relief, shelter supplies, and essential materials needed for Gaza's recovery and reconstruction.

Additionally, the ministers rejected any attempts to limit the role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), stressing the urgent need for a comprehensive reconstruction plan for Gaza.

They urged the international community and the UN Security Council to uphold the two-state solution and dismissed any plans to divide the Gaza Strip, reiterating the necessity of an Israeli withdrawal.

The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the Cairo discussions focused on ensuring the continuation of the ceasefire, strengthening the Palestinian Authority’s governance capabilities, facilitating the safe return of displaced residents to their homes, and increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza.

This high-level meeting came just days after President Trump proposed relocating Palestinians from Gaza to neighboring countries, such as Egypt and Jordan, a suggestion that was swiftly rejected by both nations and met with opposition from various Arab and international actors.

The discussions also followed Israel’s recent decision to ban UNRWA operations in Israel and occupied East Jerusalem as of Thursday, a move that has been widely condemned as having "catastrophic consequences" for Palestinian refugees.

Attending the Cairo meeting were Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aty, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, and Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. Also present were Hussein Al-Sheikh, Secretary-General of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) Executive Committee, and Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit.