Leaders and representatives from the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—gathered for an extraordinary joint meeting on Tuesday.
They wanted to discuss the escalating situation in Gaza and other Palestinian Occupied Territories.
This historic meeting also included newly inducted leaders from the Argentine Republic, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the Secretary-General of the United Nations.
Key Points Addressed
National positions and UN Engagement
Participants reaffirmed their national positions in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
Concerns were raised regarding the recent escalation of violence since the October 7, 2023 attack, emphasising the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza and other Occupied Palestinian Territories, including East Jerusalem and Israel.
Condemnation of violence and acts against civilians
All acts of violence, including war crimes, indiscriminate attacks, and targeting of civilian infrastructure, were strongly condemned.
The leaders stressed the need to protect civilians by following international humanitarian and human rights laws.
Calls were made for the immediate and unconditional release of illegally held civilians, with an emphasis on ensuring their safety and well-being in compliance with international law.
Forcible transfer and deportation
The leaders condemned any form of individual or mass forcible transfer and deportation of Palestinians, considering them as grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions and war crimes under International Humanitarian Law.
Humanitarian situation and access
Deep concern was expressed about the dire humanitarian situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
Leaders reiterated the importance of respecting international humanitarian law and ensuring immediate, safe, unhindered, and sustained humanitarian access and aid provision.
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Commitment to peaceful resolution
A commitment to resolving differences through dialogue and inclusive consultations was reiterated in a coordinated and cooperative manner.
Support for efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of crises was emphasised.
Call for humanitarian truce
A joint call was made for an immediate, durable, and sustained humanitarian truce leading to a cessation of hostilities.
Support for regional and international efforts
Strong support was reiterated for regional and international efforts to achieve an immediate cessation of hostilities, ensure civilian protection, and provide humanitarian aid.
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Peace and security in the Middle East
A commitment to achieving and sustaining peace and security in the Middle East in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter was reaffirmed.
Support for the UNSC resolution 2712, adopted under China’s presidency, was highlighted, with a call for its full implementation.
Role of international and regional organisations
The crucial role played by international and regional organisations, including the League of Arab States and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, was acknowledged.
Efforts led by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in hosting the Cairo Peace Summit were welcomed.
Preventing destabilisation and promoting peace
Emphasis was placed on preventing further destabilisation and escalation of violence, including regional spillovers.
A call was made for all parties to exercise maximum restraint.
Two-State solution and negotiations
The leaders reaffirmed that a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict could only be achieved through peaceful means.
Calls were made for the international community to support direct negotiations based on international law and relevant UN resolutions, including the Arab Peace Initiative, towards a two-state solution to establish a sovereign, independent, and viable State of Palestine.
In summary, the extraordinary joint meeting brought together leaders from diverse nations to address the urgent situation in Gaza, expressing a collective commitment to peace, humanitarian relief, and a just resolution to the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
