Algerian Foreign Minister Stresses Necessity of De-escalation in the Gulf Region and Respect for International Law

Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf stressed yesterday the necessity of de-escalation in the Arabian Gulf region and respect for international law in addressing the tensions, disputes, and conflicts afflicting the area. This came during a speech Attaf delivered at the high-level general debate of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Attaf stated that the Gulf and Middle East regions are undergoing one of the most dangerous phases in their history, not only because of the scale of destruction left by successive wars, but also “due to the erosion of the boundaries between what is acceptable and what should remain rejected and condemned in international relations.” He added that Algeria is “deeply concerned” about the continued escalation in the Gulf region, noting that the ongoing conflict is weighing heavily on the countries and peoples of the region, undermining their security and stability, and threatening the well-being and development of their populations.

Attaf reiterated his country’s condemnation of violations of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of regional states, emphasizing the need for de-escalation and respect for international law in resolving tensions, disputes, and conflicts.

On the Palestinian issue, Attaf affirmed Algeria’s full support for the legitimate and inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, foremost among which is their right to establish their independent state with full sovereignty and Jerusalem as its capital. He pointed out that the hope brought by the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, which was expected to mark the beginning of a process ending civilian suffering and paving the way for a permanent political solution, “quickly faded and disappeared” amid the continuation of Israeli settlement policies. He also expressed Algeria’s condemnation of Israeli attacks on regional states, particularly Syria and Lebanon.

On the African front, Attaf affirmed that Algeria would continue to support the just causes of the peoples of the continent and contribute to efforts aimed at enhancing stability, development, and integration. He noted that Algeria views the Sahel and Sahara region as a single space where security, development, and stability challenges intersect.

Regarding international affairs, the Algerian minister stressed that reforming the United Nations system “is no longer an institutional luxury,” but has become a necessity driven by the profound transformations the world is undergoing and the need for a more just, representative, and equitable international order.