Arab Parliament Denounces Israeli Legislative Moves in the West Bank

Post by : Mara Rahim

Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Yammahi, the President of the Arab Parliament, has issued a strong condemnation of the recent decisions by the Israeli Knesset, which approved two draft laws aimed at asserting what Israel calls “sovereignty” over the West Bank and certain illegal settlements. Al Yammahi characterized these actions as a blatant infringement of international law and a significant threat to peace in the region. The Arab Parliament articulated its staunch opposition to any legislative attempts to annex Palestinian territories.

In his remarks, Al Yammahi stated that these draft laws represent a legislative crime and stark aggression against internationally established laws, particularly UN Security Council Resolution 2334 that deems Israeli settlements in occupied areas illegal. He underscored that such measures undermine decades of international consensus concerning Palestinian rights and reflect an aggressive endeavor to forcibly annex Palestinian lands, jeopardizing any ongoing peace initiatives.

The Arab Parliament President expressed concern that such unilateral actions threaten the possibility of achieving a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By enforcing sovereignty over occupied territories, Israel is essentially eroding the last chances for dialogue and negotiation. Al Yammahi affirmed that genuine peace can only be accomplished through adherence to international law, justice, and the safeguarding of Palestinian rights—not via illegal annexation.

He further criticized the silence from the global community on this issue, cautioning that it may embolden Israel to expand settlements and continue contravening international norms. Al Yammahi implored governments, parliaments, and international organizations to take prompt and significant action to cease this legislative aggression, stressing the necessity for cooperative diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation and protect Palestinian rights.

Al Yammahi reiterated a prior appeal for the Israeli Knesset’s suspension from the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), citing ongoing violations of international law and human rights standards. He pointed out that allowing Israel’s membership while enacting such laws undermines the integrity of international parliamentary bodies and conveys a misleading message about accountability and justice.

He reaffirmed the Arab Parliament’s steadfast support for Palestinian sovereignty and the goal of establishing an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Al Yammahi emphasized the Parliament’s commitment to defending Palestinian rights across all international platforms and collaborating with Arab and regional allies to address violations of international law.

In conclusion, the Arab Parliament President urged global and regional stakeholders to act swiftly against Israel’s unlawful actions. He called for a united front from Arab parliaments and international organizations to reverse these measures, uphold international law, and protect the peace process. Al Yammahi's statement underscores the Arab Parliament’s dedication to justice, accountability, and the defense of Palestinian rights.