Muslim Nations Condemn Israel West Bank Land Policy

[Abdulwahid]

Eight Muslim-majority countries have jointly rejected Israel's recent decision to designate lands in the occupied West Bank as "state land" and to approve new land registration and settlement procedures. The countries expressed deep concern over the implications of the move on regional stability and Palestinian rights.

In a joint statement issued by their foreign ministers, the nations said the decision seeks to impose a new legal and administrative reality in the occupied territory. They stressed that such unilateral steps threaten efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region.

The ministers warned that the action could seriously undermine the long-standing two-state solution framework. According to them, it weakens the prospects of establishing an independent and viable Palestinian state living peacefully alongside Israel.

They further described the move as an attempt to alter the legal, demographic, and historical status of the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The statement characterized the development as a dangerous escalation capable of increasing tensions and instability across the Middle East.

The countries also called on the international community to take firm and decisive measures to halt what they termed ongoing violations of international law. They emphasized the importance of upholding binding international resolutions and protecting civilian populations under occupation.

Specifically, the ministers urged respect for resolutions of the United Nations Security Council and adherence to the Fourth Geneva Convention, which outlines protections for civilians in times of war and occupation. They stressed that international legal frameworks must not be ignored.

Additionally, the statement referenced an advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice affirming the illegality of measures aimed at changing the legal and demographic status of occupied Palestinian territories. The countries reiterated their support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the 4 June 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, while calling for renewed global efforts toward a just and comprehensive peace.

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