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Russia and Arab League Unite to Call for Ceasefire in Gaza Conflict

Russia and Arab League Unite to Call for Ceasefire in Gaza Conflict
Thursday 21 December 2023 - 07:30
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Marrakesh, Morocco - The Russian-Arab Cooperation Forum witnessed heightened tensions on Wednesday as diplomats from Russia and the Arab League jointly called for the UN Security Council to pass a resolution for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas militants in Gaza.

The ongoing conflict, which has claimed the lives of over 19,600 Gazans, predominantly women and children, took center stage at the diplomatic talks that typically focus on economic and political cooperation.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov addressed the assembly, expressing hope that the Security Council would swiftly pass a mature resolution calling for a ceasefire. "We have agreed to continue coordinating within the UN," Lavrov added.

Later in the day, the Security Council was set to vote on a proposed resolution urging both sides to halt attacks. With over 1,140 Israelis dead, patience among the international community has grown thin.

"Anyone opposing an immediate ceasefire in Gaza has blood on their hands," stated Arab League Chief Ahmed Aboul Gheit via video conference. He called for a two-state solution and the urgent creation of a Palestinian state.

Lavrov concurred, emphasizing the importance of a swift peace process as some sources suggest that Western partners aim to separate the West Bank from Gaza.

However, the path to peace is laden with challenges. The resolution faces opposition from the United States, which previously vetoed a similar bill on December 8. Diplomats have been grappling for days to broker acceptable terms for both sides.

As the death toll continues to rise, the world appeals for respite, and all eyes turn to the UN Security Council to see whether unity or discord will prevail.


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