Post by : Maya Rahman

Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Yammahi, the President of the Arab Parliament, has vehemently denounced the Israeli Knesset’s approval of two draft laws that seek to enforce what Israel calls “sovereignty” over the West Bank and its settlements. Al Yammahi labeled these developments as direct breaches of international law and significant threats to regional stability. The Arab Parliament has firmly opposed any legislative attempts to annex Palestinian territories.

In his remarks, Al Yammahi asserted that these draft laws represent a formidable legislative offense and an outright aggression against established international statutes, particularly UN Security Council Resolution 2334, which deems Israeli settlements in occupied territories illegal. He reminded that these actions jeopardize years of international consensus regarding Palestinian rights, highlighting a blatant attempt to forcibly annex Palestinian lands and sabotaging peace efforts in the region.

The Arab Parliament President expressed concerns that such unilateral actions jeopardize potential resolutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By asserting sovereignty over occupied lands, Israel effectively squanders any remaining chances for meaningful negotiation and dialogue. Al Yammahi emphasized that lasting peace requires adherence to international law, justice, and the safeguarding of Palestinian rights, rather than illegal annexations.

Criticizing the global community’s silence on this critical issue, Al Yammahi warned that inaction might embolden Israel to further expand settlements and defy international norms. He called upon governments, parliaments, and international organizations to promptly and decisively respond to this legislative aggression. Al Yammahi urged for united diplomatic efforts to avert further escalation and defend the rights of the Palestinian people.

Reiterating a previous call to action, Al Yammahi urged for the suspension of the Israeli Knesset’s membership in the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in light of ongoing violations of international law and human rights. Allowing Israel to retain such membership while enacting these laws undermines the integrity of international parliamentary institutions and conveys a harmful message regarding accountability and justice.

Al Yammahi reinforced the Arab Parliament’s steadfast support for Palestinian sovereignty and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. He affirmed that the Parliament would continue to advocate for Palestinian rights on all global platforms, coordinating efforts with Arab and regional allies to address violations of international law.

In conclusion, Al Yammahi emphasized the urgency for global and regional stakeholders to confront Israel’s unlawful actions. He called for a collective voice from Arab parliaments and international organizations to counter these measures, uphold international law, and support the peace process. His statement reflects the Arab Parliament's dedication to justice, accountability, and the preservation of Palestinian rights.