Arab League Secretary-General Nabil Fahmy met with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. They discussed coordinating efforts on regional and international issues of mutual interest, particularly the Palestinian question. The meeting took place on September 20, 2026, as Fahmy participated in the high-level segment of the General Assembly.
The two officials focused on the escalating crises in the region, with the Palestinian issue at the forefront. They agreed that containing the escalation requires serious international action to address its root causes, rather than just managing its consequences. The situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, including the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, was also discussed. Fahmy emphasized the need for Israel to comply with international law and humanitarian law.
Fahmy stressed that the international recognition of Palestine as a state necessitates a transition to practical steps to end the occupation and establish an independent Palestinian state. He cited the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as the capital. The Arab League Secretary-General also rejected any arrangements that would separate Gaza from the West Bank, emphasizing that Gaza is an integral part of the occupied Palestinian territory.
The meeting also covered developments in Syria, Lebanon, Yemen, Libya, and Sudan. Both Fahmy and Guterres expressed concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Sudan, which they fear could worsen further. They called for an immediate ceasefire and the opening of safe corridors for aid delivery to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people and prevent a further humanitarian crisis.
Fahmy and Guterres reviewed the regional crises and their impact on stability in the Middle East. They emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to address these challenges, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The two officials also discussed ways to enhance cooperation between the Arab League and the United Nations in addressing these issues.
The Arab League and the United Nations have a long-standing partnership in promoting peace and stability in the region. Fahmy and Guterres have previously met to discuss regional issues, including the Palestinian conflict. Their latest meeting reflects the ongoing efforts of both organizations to address the complex challenges facing the Middle East.
The discussions between Fahmy and Guterres come at a critical time, as the region faces multiple crises that require urgent attention. The international community is looking for ways to address these challenges and promote peace and stability in the region. The meeting between the Arab League Secretary-General and the UN Secretary-General highlights the importance of cooperation and coordination in addressing these issues.
Key points
- The meeting between Fahmy and Guterres focused on the Palestinian issue and other regional crises.
- Fahmy emphasized the need for Israel to comply with international law and humanitarian law.
- The two officials called for an immediate ceasefire and aid delivery in Sudan to prevent a further humanitarian crisis.
