Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf has made a strong plea for Arab unity and collective action at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. He emphasized the need for a unified Arab stance in the face of persistent regional crises and threats to the Palestinian cause. Attaf called for a shift from mere declarations to concrete diplomatic actions based on international law and state sovereignty.
Attaf highlighted the alarming regional context, citing multiple hotspots and the erosion of respect for international law. He stressed that Arab countries can no longer afford to simply record their positions and must instead take decisive action. The minister noted that the region is paying the price for a lack of political solutions and selective application of international law.
The Palestinian issue remains a top priority for Algeria. Attaf urged the international community to keep the Palestinian question on the global agenda, refusing to let it be marginalized or reduced to its humanitarian aspects. He specifically cited concerns over the E1 dossier and upcoming Israeli elections, emphasizing the need for a clear Arab position to prevent irreversible projects.
Algeria is calling for concrete international action to prevent measures that could compromise the establishment of a contiguous and viable Palestinian state. Attaf also condemned Israeli attacks on Arab state sovereignty, particularly in Syria and Lebanon. He extended his concerns to the security situation in the Gulf, where ongoing escalation is a source of concern.
Attaf emphasized the importance of Arab countries being part of any discussion or negotiation on future regional security arrangements. He stressed that their priorities and concerns must be taken into account. Algeria rejects any infringement on Arab state sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as attempts to turn the region into a proxy war zone.
The Algerian minister also addressed other crises affecting several Arab countries, including Libya, Sudan, Yemen, and Somalia. He advocated for a unified approach to support national political solutions, preserve state institutions, protect state unity and sovereignty, and reject external interference. Attaf emphasized that these principles should guide Arab action in the face of regional crises.
Attaf concluded by stressing the need for concrete measures rather than promises, and for addressing the root causes of crises affecting the Arab world. Algeria aims for a united, active, and effective Arab presence at the UN General Assembly, defending Arab rights and promoting respect for international law while remaining open to dialogue and political solutions.
Key points
- Algeria calls for a unified Arab stance on Palestinian issue
- Algerian Foreign Minister emphasizes need for concrete diplomatic actions
- Arab countries must be part of regional security arrangements discussions
