Iran Advocates One-State Solution in Response to Arab Peace Initiative
Iran has rejected the Arab-led two-state proposal for Gaza, advocating instead for a one-state solution at the OIC meeting. Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi emphasized that a two-state solution cannot secure Palestinian rights and expressed Iran’s commitment to the Palestinian cause. As regional dynamics evolve, Iran seeks to restore its influence in the Islamic world amidst competing initiatives from Arab states.
Iran has unequivocally expressed its preference for a one-state solution for the Gaza conflict, rejecting the recent Arab proposal stemming from a meeting in Cairo. This announcement came during a gathering of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), where foreign ministers from diverse Muslim nations convened to discuss critical issues regarding Palestine.
The region is currently at a crucial juncture, marked by an ongoing ceasefire in Gaza. Hamas has turned down Israel’s attempts to prolong a phase of the hostage agreement, while the Trump administration is now willing to engage in direct negotiations with Hamas. Both Iran and the Arab states have voiced their discontent with the Trump administration’s plan concerning the resettlement of Gazans.
The Arab League has shown support for a reconstruction initiative spearheaded by Egypt. At the OIC meeting, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi articulated that a two-state solution “will not secure Palestinian rights”, emphasizing Iran’s endorsement of a single state representing all rightful inhabitants of Palestine. He stated, “With due respect to the views of some brotherly countries on the two-state solution, the Islamic Republic of Iran maintains its view that this solution will not lead to the realization of the right of the Palestinian people.”
This moment is pivotal for Iran, which has experienced a decline in regional influence following the fall of the Assad regime. The Iranian government aims to regain its standing and leverage the Houthis to pose threats to Israel while expressing discontent over its diminishing control in Lebanon.
Iran’s foreign minister asserted, “In our view, ‘one democratic state’ representing all the original inhabitants of Palestine is the only viable solution.” He underscored the obligation to continue efforts for the expulsion of the Israeli regime from the United Nations in light of various violations against Palestinian rights. Iran’s state media highlighted the significance of Araqchi’s speech by broadcasting its entirety.
Emphasizing its unwavering dedication to the Palestinian cause, Iran stated, “While the Islamic Republic of Iran supports the present resolution, and without prejudice to the foregoing, it would like to put on record the following reservations on the content of the outcome of this meeting.” Iran has urged that the OIC not be perceived as bestowing recognition upon the “Zionist regime.”
The Iranian foreign minister expressed hope that the OIC meeting would motivate the international community to undertake substantial initiatives towards justice and peace for the Palestinian populace. Such sentiments indicate Iran’s strategic intent to reclaim its influence within the Islamic world amidst growing concerns that proposals from Saudi Arabia and Egypt might lead to moderation or the potential replacement of Hamas in Gaza.
In summary, Iran’s call for a one-state solution reflects its strategic position amidst regional dynamics impacting Palestine. Its rejection of the Arab proposal, coupled with its assertive claims during the OIC meeting, underlines its commitment to Palestinian rights. As Iran seeks to reestablish its influence in the Islamic world, the current geopolitical landscape poses significant challenges and opportunities for discussions on the future of Gaza.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
