An unofficial draft of the final communique for the Arab Summit in Bahrain, set to take place on Thursday, obtained by Asharq Al-Awsat, includes a call by Arab nations to deploy a UN-backed international peacekeeping force in the occupied Palestinian territories until a two-state solution is achieved.
The draft emphasizes the need for a timeline for political negotiations to establish a viable Palestinian state along pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. It holds Israel responsible for damaging cities and civilian infrastructure in Gaza.
Besides strongly condemning Israeli attacks on Gaza and calling for an immediate halt to the violence, the draft statement demands the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, lifting the blockade, and opening crossings for humanitarian aid.
The draft also rejects any forced displacement of Palestinians and urges a quick and lasting ceasefire, protection of civilians, and release of hostages.
It suggests Arab nations gather for a UN-sponsored conference to find a political solution for Palestine, leading to a two-state agreement.
It also urges Arab foreign ministers to push for swift recognition of Palestine by engaging with Western and global counterparts.
This aims to support Palestine’s full membership in the UN and intensify efforts for recognition by all Security Council members.
The draft strongly opposes any backing for armed groups or militias working outside state boundaries and pursuing foreign agendas conflicting with Arab interests. It stresses Arab unity in defending sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national institutions against external threats.
It reaffirms a firm stand against terrorism in all forms and supports efforts to cut off its funding sources and combat extremist organizations. The draft urges action against extremism, hate speech, and incitement, condemning such acts for their negative impact on peace and security.
It calls for promoting values of tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and rejecting hatred and discrimination. Expressing concern over recent military escalation in the region, it urges all parties to avoid war risks and heightened tension.
The draft asks the UN Security Council to uphold international peace, implement resolutions for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, and prevent further escalation and spread of war in the Middle East.
