The UN Human Rights Chief condemned unlawful proposals for the annexation of Palestinian territories during the Human Rights Council meeting, warning of their potential to threaten peace. Egypt rejected Israeli suggestions for controlling Gaza, emphasizing Palestinian sovereignty. In Lebanon, President Aoun looks forward to a unified Arab stance at the upcoming summit while the parliament discusses government confidence and reforms.
On Wednesday, Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, condemned proposals related to the annexation or forced transfer of populations from Palestinian territories, declaring them unlawful. He emphasized that such actions could destabilize the peace and security of not only Palestinians and Israelis but also the broader region. Moreover, Turk noted the escalating violence from Israeli settlers in the West Bank, coinciding with intensified military operations announced by Israel.,
Turk pointed to the urgent need for accountability regarding human rights abuses linked to the ongoing conflagration resulting from Hamas’s attacks in October. He characterized Israeli warfare methods as causing severe casualties and destruction, raising the possibility of war crimes, while expressing skepticism about the Israeli justice system’s capacity to deliver justice for Palestinian victims. He also condemned Hamas for atrocities against hostages and its indiscriminate rocket fire into Israel, calling for an independent investigation into all abuses.,
In response to an Israeli opposition leader’s suggestion that Egypt should administrate Gaza, Egypt firmly rejected the idea as incompatible with its longstanding policy. A spokesman emphasized that any proposals undermining the principle of an independent Palestinian state were unaccepted, reiterating that Palestinian sovereignty over Gaza and the West Bank is non-negotiable. Additionally, MP Yair Lapid’s claim of Egypt managing Gaza in exchange for debt relief was dismissed.,
In Lebanon, President Joseph Aoun expressed optimism for upcoming discussions at the extraordinary Arab Summit, hoping for a consolidated Arab position addressing regional challenges. During his meeting with Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al-Busaidi, Aoun acknowledged the significance of Arab unity in these trying times. Both parties discussed initiatives to enhance bilateral relations while addressing challenges posed by the ongoing situations in Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine.,
Parliamentary sessions in Lebanon regarding Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s government continued, with predictions of a solid confidence vote. Various MPs urged transparency and accountability in government finances and actions, stressing a need for foundations that contribute positively during transitional periods. Additionally, the French ambassador conveyed France’s commitment to supporting Lebanon’s reform initiatives while discussing future economic collaboration.
In summary, significant developments are transpiring across multiple regions, with noteworthy attention on the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian tensions and Lebanon’s path towards governance stability. The UN is advocating for the adherence to human rights amidst the violence, while Lebanon seeks unity at the upcoming Arab Summit to address shared challenges. Meanwhile, Egypt firmly stands by its policies regarding Palestinian sovereignty, underlining the complexity of diplomatic relations in the area.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
