Arab League condemns Israeli escalation, reaffirms support for Iraq
Shafaq News/ The Arab League, in an extraordinary session upon the request of Iraq, voiced strong condemnation of Israel's actions in the region and expressed firm support for Iraq's sovereignty while urging international measures to curb Israeli aggression.
Focus on Iraq's Sovereignty
The Arab League commended Iraq's government for its commitment to “respecting sovereignty and rejecting the use of its territory and airspace for regional or international conflicts.” It reaffirmed that decisions regarding war and peace lie solely with the Iraqi government and praised Baghdad's ongoing measures to prevent any misuse of its territory for military actions.
The session highlighted concerns over the letter from Israel’s foreign minister to the UN Security Council in which he warned Iraq of possible attack. The Arab League criticized the letter as a “transparent attempt to justify Israel's escalation and broaden the scope of conflict in the region.” The league described such efforts as “a diversion from Israel's continued crimes against Palestinians and its aggressive actions in Lebanon and Syria.”
Call for De-escalation
The league lauded Iraq’s adherence to international law and the UN Charter, urging all parties to prioritize de-escalation and uphold international legal principles. It condemned Israeli attempts to expand its aggression, particularly in Iraq, while strongly denouncing acts of genocide, ethnic cleansing, and other violations against Palestinians.
International Action Against Israeli Policies
In a collective response, the Arab League called on its Secretary-General to address the UN Security Council and Secretary-General. The league urged immediate international action to halt Israeli escalations and stressed the importance of defending Iraq’s sovereignty.
The session also demanded “global efforts to counter Israel's aggressive policies and ensure compliance with international law and UN resolutions.”
Broader Regional Concerns
The Arab League extended its condemnation to Israeli actions against Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine, labeling them “violations of humanitarian law and war crimes warranting accountability.”
The league highlighted recent escalations, including Israel's targeted actions against UN entities such as UNRWA and UN peacekeepers, urging the Security Council to take decisive measures.
The Arab League also criticized the United States for its repeated use of veto power to block a resolution for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza. It called on Washington to reconsider its stance, which the league argued “undermines the UN Security Council’s responsibility to maintain international peace.”
Support for International Justice
Welcoming a decision by the International Criminal Court (ICC) to issue arrest warrants for the Israeli prime minister and security minister, the Arab League urged member states to cooperate with the court and “refrain from politicizing” its decisions.
Warning Against Border Violations
The league expressed concern over reports of Israel digging trenches and raising barriers along ceasefire lines, actions documented by the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF). It warned such activities violate UN resolutions and the 1974 disengagement agreement, calling for immediate cessation.
