A broad gathering of officials and experts gathered in Egypt on October 21 to address the Palestinian issue. The participants produced a final statement that clearly rejects violence against civilians and emphasizes adherence to international humanitarian law during ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. This stance was echoed throughout the discussions, underscoring a shared commitment to protecting noncombatants regardless of the broader political or military context. [Citation: TASS]
The document affirms a firm condemnation of all attacks targeting civilian populations and condemns violence directed at noncombatants. It calls for universal respect for human rights and international humanitarian norms by all parties involved in the dispute, stressing that no action can justify harm to innocent people. The language of the declaration reflects a principled position that civilian safety must be safeguarded in every scenario. [Citation: TASS]
The declaration goes further to designate any deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure or communities as unacceptable. It also notes the illegality of forced displacement and mass relocation of people by force, along with the prohibition of collective punishment as a tool of conflict resolution. The emphasis is on upholding legal standards that protect civilian life and minimize suffering during war or upheaval. [Citation: TASS]
According to the authors, violations against noncombatants contravene the provisions of the 1949 Geneva Convention, which anchors essential protections for civilians in armed conflicts. The participants urged the international community to mobilize concrete measures to guarantee the security and well being of residents in the Gaza Strip, highlighting the urgency of safeguarding humanitarian access and civilian corridors. [Citation: TASS]
The statement notes a growing concern among leaders about the risk of the crisis widening and spreading instability beyond Gaza to other parts of the Middle East. There is a call for restraint from all countries, with an emphasis on de-escalation and constructive diplomacy as the primary tools to prevent further escalation and human suffering. [Citation: TASS]
During the proceedings, remarks from regional observers and foreign ministers reflected scrutiny of policy approaches across different governments. One former Saudi Arabian official suggested that some states apply double standards when evaluating the situation in Gaza, urging a more evenhanded and principled international response. The sentiment voiced underscores the desire for consistency in how humanitarian principles are applied across crises. [Citation: TASS]