Arab League condemns Israeli plan to impose control over Gaza

The Council of the Arab League has condemned the Israeli government’s plans to impose military control over the Gaza Strip and displace its population, stating it constitutes a violation of international law and a threat to Arab and regional security.

In its closing statement following a meeting of permanent representatives at the League’s headquarters, the Council renewed its call to protect the Palestinian people and implement resolutions of Arab summits to break the siege and deliver aid by land, sea and air in coordination with the United Nations.

It also condemned the use of starvation as a weapon of destruction, claiming 200 civilian lives so far.

The Council called for enabling the State of Palestine to administer Gaza, the West Bank and Jerusalem.

It also urged the Arab Group in New York to submit a draft resolution to the UN Security Council under Chapter VII to halt the aggression on Gaza, facilitate the delivery of aid and impose sanctions on Israel.

The Council further urged the international community to work towards implementing Security Council Resolutions 2735, 2712 and 2720, concerning the ceasefire, the return of displaced persons, the distribution of aid, the exchange of prisoners and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.