Arab League Secretary-General Calls for Collective European Measures Against Israeli Settlements
Arab League Secretary-General Nabil Fahmy called for translating European stances rejecting settlements into collective measures and supporting the Palestinian cause during his meeting with Portuguese Minister Paulo Rangel.
Translated by Qiyas from كونا — Original source
Cairo, Sept 17 (KUNA) – Arab League Secretary-General Nabil Fahmy called on Thursday for European positions rejecting Israeli settlement and settler violence to be translated into collective measures, emphasizing the importance of supporting the Palestinian cause and recognizing the State of Palestine. The Arab League said in a statement that this came during Fahmy’s meeting with Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel, who is currently visiting Cairo.
The statement added that Fahmy expressed the League’s appreciation for Portugal’s supportive stance toward the Palestinian cause, particularly its decision to recognize the State of Palestine and its opposition to settlement expansion, especially the E1 project, which isolates East Jerusalem and contradicts the two-state solution.
Fahmy stressed the priority of halting Israeli aggression, opening border crossings, expanding humanitarian aid, and supporting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). He also affirmed the necessity of stopping Israeli violations of the sovereignty of Lebanon and Syria and withdrawing from their territories.
Regarding the situation in the Arabian Gulf region, Fahmy emphasized the importance of de-escalation, respecting the sovereignty and security of Arab states, and guaranteeing freedom of international navigation, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, given the implications for regional security, trade, supply chains, energy, and the global economy. He stressed that any understandings with Iran should take into account the security and concerns of Arab states, be reached in consultation with them, and address tensions through diplomatic means within the framework of international law.
Fahmy congratulated Portugal on winning a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2027–2028 term, expressing hope that its presence on the Council would contribute to safeguarding international law regarding international and Arab issues.
For his part, the Portuguese minister expressed his appreciation to Arab countries for supporting his country’s candidacy for Security Council membership, reaffirming Portugal’s continued support for Arab causes, foremost among them the Palestinian cause.
According to the statement, Rangel outlined his country’s priorities during its upcoming Security Council membership, emphasizing its commitment to expanding political cooperation with the Arab world under the umbrella of the Arab League. (End) M.M./A.M.H.
