Azerbaijan calls for action on Gaza's humanitarian crisis at OIC session

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov attended the extraordinary session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) as part of his working visit to Saudi Arabia.

Addressing the event, Bayramov highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Palestine, reaffirmed Azerbaijan's commitment to a two-state solution, and emphasized the country's continued support for Palestinian relief efforts. He also expressed support for Syria's restored membership in the OIC and its territorial integrity, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

Bayramov focused on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Palestine, emphasizing the grave concerns over the mass loss of innocent lives, widespread destruction of infrastructure, and the severe shortages of food and water in the region. He condemned the use of force that has resulted in the deaths of civilians and called for urgent, decisive action to end the crisis, 

Highlighting Azerbaijan's firm stance on the issue, Bayramov reiterated that the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the inadmissibility of the use of force must be upheld in accordance with international law. He also stressed that Azerbaijan supports the ceasefire reached in January 2025, underlining the importance of preventing any actions that could lead to its violation and escalation of the situation. Bayramov described the ceasefire as a crucial first step towards a sustainable peace process, one that respects the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people.

The Foreign Minister reiterated Azerbaijan's unwavering support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, in line with international law, including relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. He also emphasized the significance of continuing humanitarian efforts to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people.

As a responsible member of the OIC, Azerbaijan has committed to aiding the Palestinian people both financially and in the form of development initiatives. Since the escalation of the conflict in 2023, Azerbaijan has provided humanitarian assistance amounting to $2 million to help alleviate the crisis. In addition, Azerbaijan has introduced initiatives aimed at supporting the Palestinian people in education and healthcare. Notably, Azerbaijan has allocated the Heydar Aliyev International Education Grant for 15 Palestinian students for the 2024-2025 academic year and committed to constructing a 600-seat school in Nablus.

Minister Bayramov also expressed Azerbaijan's full support for the reconstruction and aid plan for Gaza, put forward by Egypt and approved during the Arab League’s extraordinary summit on March 4. Azerbaijan’s ongoing commitment to the Palestinian cause reflects its dedication to fostering peace, stability, and humanitarian aid in the region.

Additionally, Bayramov congratulated Syria on the restoration of its membership in the OIC and reiterated Azerbaijan's support for Syria's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and the restoration of lasting peace and stability within the country.

By Vafa Guliyeva