Oman Urges Palestinian Statehood and Full UN Membership as Strategic Necessity

At the 10th emergency special session of the UN General Assembly in New York, the Sultanate of Oman reiterated its stance that establishing a Palestinian state and granting it full membership in the United Nations is a strategic necessity for achieving peace and security in the Middle East and globally.

Oman's permanent delegation to the UN, led by Counsellor Sayyid Ahmed bin Hamoud al Busaidi, delivered a statement emphasizing that "The setting up of the Palestinian State is a strategic necessity for the next stage of UN action and a global demand supported by the international community." The sultanate urged the Security Council to reconsider granting Palestine full UN membership, arguing that "Rejecting such a request does not serve security and peace in the Middle East or the world at large."

Why this matters: The recognition of a Palestinian state and its admission to the UN could have significant implications for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, potentially paving the way for a two-state solution and greater stability in the region. The international community's support for Palestinian statehood could also influence the balance of power in the Middle East and beyond.

The statement criticized the Security Council for perceived double standards on the Palestinian issue, asserting that "Failure to grant the State of Palestine full UN membership damages the credibility of the Security Council due to the application of double standards when it comes to the Palestinian cause." Oman welcomed the overwhelming majority vote by UN General Assembly members on a resolution supporting Palestine's right to full membership.

Oman aligned itself with statements made by other delegations, including the United Arab Emirates on behalf of the Arab Group, the Islamic Republic of Mauritania representing the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and the Republic of Uganda for the Non-Aligned Movement, all of which supported Palestine's legitimate demand for full UN membership.

The sultanate expressed deep concern over ongoing military escalations by Israeli forces and atrocities against civilians in Gaza and other occupied Palestinian territories. It warned of the catastrophic consequences of such actions, particularly the recent military operations in Rafah, and cautioned against further conflict and tension in the region.

Oman reiterated its support for peace efforts and the two-state solution, emphasizing safe coexistence. The sultanate firmly rejected any project that does not contribute to a just and comprehensive peace or provide a permanent solution to the Palestinian issue. It affirmed its support for the legitimate demands of the Palestinian people, including their right to full UN membership.

The Sultanate of Oman's call for Palestinian statehood and full UN membership as a strategic necessity for Middle East peace and security underscores the urgency of resolving the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. With growing international support for Palestine's legitimate rights, the UN faces increasing pressure to take decisive action towards a just and lasting solution.

Key Takeaways

• Oman calls for Palestinian statehood and full UN membership as a strategic necessity for Middle East peace.
• Recognition of Palestine could pave the way for a two-state solution and greater regional stability.
• Oman criticizes Security Council for double standards on Palestinian issue, urging reconsideration of full membership.
• Oman expresses deep concern over Israeli military escalations and atrocities against Palestinian civilians.
• Oman reaffirms support for two-state solution, safe coexistence, and Palestinian people's legitimate demands.