On September 26, 2026, Nabil Fahmy, the Secretary-General of the Arab League, took part in a joint ministerial meeting between the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. The meeting focused on Jerusalem and was held on the sidelines of the high-level segment of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The event saw significant participation from high-ranking officials of Arab and Islamic states.
During the meeting, Fahmy delivered a speech in which he unequivocally rejected any attempts aimed at altering the geographical and demographic reality in the occupied Palestinian territories. He strongly condemned Israel's daily practices and policies, which he argued reflect a desire to change the identity, character, and legal and historical status of Jerusalem.
Fahmy referenced a statement issued by the Arab League's Council at its ministerial session held in early September. The statement addressed the situation in the occupied Arab territories, and Fahmy conveyed a message to the UN Security Council and the international community. He emphasized the need to move beyond condemnation and take responsibility to protect Jerusalem and its holy sites.
The Arab League Secretary-General urged the international community to hold Israel accountable for halting all expansionist activities, forced displacement, land confiscation, and settlement construction. He warned of the grave consequences of Israel's continued provocative actions and disrespect for Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.
Fahmy's participation in the meeting underscores the Arab League's commitment to addressing the challenges facing Jerusalem and the broader Palestinian issue. The joint ministerial meeting provided a platform for Arab and Islamic nations to coordinate their efforts and develop a unified stance on the Jerusalem question.
The situation in Jerusalem has been a longstanding concern for the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Both organizations have consistently called for the protection of the city's holy sites and the preservation of its cultural and historical heritage.
The joint ministerial meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to supporting the Palestinian people and protecting Jerusalem's status as a city of religious significance. The participants emphasized the importance of international cooperation in promoting peace and stability in the region.
Key points
- The Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation are working together to address the challenges facing Jerusalem.
- Nabil Fahmy urged the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions in the occupied Palestinian territories.
- The joint ministerial meeting aimed to develop a unified stance on the Jerusalem question among Arab and Islamic nations.
