Bangladesh condemns Israeli law aimed at annexing Palestinian territory

Bangladesh has strongly condemned Israel's recent land-related legislation aimed at annexing occupied Palestinian territory, terming it a violation of international law.

Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman made the condemnation in his address at the emergency open-ended executive committee meeting of OIC foreign ministers in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Thursday, February 26.

He unequivocally condemned Israel's recent law concerning land purchase aimed at annexing occupied Palestinian territory.

The foreign minister said the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital based on the 1967 borders is the only sustainable solution to the ongoing crisis.

He stated that the legislation is specifically designed to alter the legal and demographic character of Palestinian territory, including Al-Quds Al-Sharif.

Expressing deep concern, the foreign minister said the decisions to facilitate land purchase in the West Bank and open land registration are putting Palestinian landowners at risk of intimidation and harassment. These steps constitute a clear violation of international law and undermine the foundation for establishing just and lasting peace.

He emphasised that the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital based on the two-state solution along the 1967 borders could be the effective resolution to the long-standing crisis. He called for ensuring Palestinian land rights by rejecting Israel's land-related legislation.

Bangladesh's foreign minister also demanded a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, unconditional and unrestricted access for international humanitarian workers, and the delivery of urgent humanitarian assistance to affected women, men and children.