Implementing the resolution issued during the extraordinary session of the League Council, at the level of foreign ministers on 11/10/2023, regarding political measures to halt Israeli aggression and promote peace and security, the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States convened an emergency meeting on 5 November. The focus of this gathering was the subcommittee for stakeholders committed to achieving sustainable development in Arab nations affected by conflicts, with a specific emphasis on providing support to Gaza.
During the meeting, the League of Arab States expressed its commitment to continue delivering diverse forms of humanitarian and relief support. This commitment extends from member states, various organisations, public and civil entities, the private sector, and all partners. This resolve is particularly crucial in the aftermath of the brutal Israeli aggression and the destructive open warfare policies implemented by the Israeli occupation authorities in the Gaza Strip, resulting in widespread human suffering for approximately 2.3 million people across various aspects of life.
In line with the directives of His Excellency the Secretary-General, Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, discussions will revolve around initiating an Arab campaign to provide humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, bolstered by the support of partners. The objective is to ensure the sustained delivery of necessary aid to Gaza, channelling ample quantities of vital humanitarian assistance to the residents of the Strip. Additionally, the discussions will delve into strategies for addressing the restoration of life and providing generous assistance to the people of Gaza, who find themselves entangled in an unprecedented spiral of deprivation and multi-dimensional poverty.
To achieve these goals, the League of Arab States will collaborate with Arab nations and work in tandem with partners from specialised Arab organisations, United Nations institutions, civil society entities, the private sector, the Arab Youth Platform for Sustainable Development, and supporting institutions. This collaboration aims to open avenues for volunteering, facilitating preparation for a comprehensive campaign that becomes a popular movement involving all segments of society. The objective is to showcase solidarity with the people of Gaza, rallying collective efforts to support Gaza in the reconstruction and development phase. This includes the pursuit of stable economic, social, and environmental means of livelihood.
The League of Arab States is committed to mobilising the necessary and adequate funding to meet the substantial needs, while also documenting these efforts through media channels. Collaboration with the regional network of food banks, the United Nations Refugee Relief Agency (UNRWA), and the Egyptian Red Crescent, in coordination with the Arab Republic of Egypt, will be integral to these endeavours.
