President Tinubu Calls For Ceasefire, Two-State Solution In Gaza During Riyadh Summit

President Tinubu Calls For Ceasefire, Two-State Solution In Gaza During Riyadh Summit

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Monday, called for an immediate cessation of Israeli aggression in Gaza, stressing that the ongoing conflict has caused unthinkable suffering for too long. Addressing the extraordinary...CONTINUE READING…

Arab-Islamic Summit convened to address the current crisis in the Middle East, Tinubu voiced his deep concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

The summit, attended by heads of state and government from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the League of Arab States, came as a follow-up to last year’s Riyadh summit.

Immediate Ceasefire Urged

Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing the country’s support for a two-state solution that ensures both Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace and security. He underscored that this solution remains vital for long-term peace in the region.

“The conflict in Palestine has lasted far too long, inflicting immeasurable suffering on countless lives,” Tinubu said. “As representatives of nations that uphold justice, dignity, and the sanctity of human life, we have a moral obligation to collectively end this conflict.”

He called for more than just verbal condemnation, stressing that the international community must actively work to halt Israeli aggression in Gaza. “No political or military strategy should come at the cost of innocent lives,” he stated.

Respect for Civilians’ Rights

The Nigerian president urged all parties involved in the Middle East conflict to abide by the principles of proportionality and respect for civilian rights, in line with international law.

“Self-defense is a right for states, but it must be proportional and adhere to global legal, diplomatic, and moral frameworks,” Tinubu said. “The civilian population cannot be treated as mere collateral damage.”

Commitment to a Two-State Solution

Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering stance on the two-state solution, framing it as a beacon of hope for both Israelis and Palestinians. “It’s not just a diplomatic ideal; it’s a vision rooted in equality and mutual recognition,” he said, stressing that achieving this vision requires dialogue and respect for the historical context of the conflict.

The Nigerian president commended King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia for organizing the summit, describing it as an essential platform to reignite diplomatic efforts for lasting peace.

A Call for Global Action

Tinubu emphasized that Nigeria, drawing on its own experiences, would continue to support international efforts to promote peace and stability in the Middle East. He also called for the creation of a secretariat to implement the summit’s resolutions, urging OIC and Arab League leaders to oversee the efforts and ensure a global consensus for peace.

In his opening address, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and Lebanon, denouncing the targeting of civilians and the violation of the Al-Aqsa mosque. He also criticized Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid for Palestinians and the displacement of Lebanese citizens, stressing the need to protect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.