Iran has rejected the Arab plan for Gaza, advocating instead for a one-state solution. This position was articulated during an OIC meeting, where Iranian leaders emphasized that a two-state solution does not secure Palestinian rights. Iran seeks a unified state and aims to enhance its influence in the region amidst concerns over Arab League proposals potentially moderating Hamas’s role.
Iran has expressed its preference for a one-state solution concerning the ongoing conflict in Gaza, rejecting a recent Arab initiative formulated during a meeting in Cairo. This announcement came during a session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), where various Muslim foreign ministers convened to discuss the regional situation amid a current ceasefire in Gaza. In this context, the Trump administration has indicated a willingness to engage directly with Hamas, while both Iran and Arab states oppose proposals for resettling Gazans per the Trump plan.
The Arab League, with Egypt playing a pivotal role, supports a reconstruction plan for Gaza. However, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi durante the OIC meeting criticized the two-state solution, arguing it fails to safeguard Palestinian rights. He emphasized that Iran advocates for a unified state representing all original inhabitants of Palestine, stating, “With due respect to the views of some brotherly countries on the two-state solution, the Islamic Republic of Iran maintains its view that this solution will not lead to the realization of the right of the Palestinian people.”
This moment is crucial for Iran, which has experienced a decline in its influence across the region following the fall of the Assad regime. In an attempt to reclaim its stature, Iran has expressed its intent to leverage the Houthis to pose ongoing threats to Israel, indicating a strategic shift in its regional policy.
Iran maintains that a “one democratic state” is the only viable resolution and decries Israel’s defiance against international norms. Araqchi pointed out various grievances, including Israel’s dismissal of the UN’s authority. He noted, “Given the Israeli regime’s persistent defiance of the UN Charter, it is imperative to continue our endeavors for Israeli regime’s expulsion from the United Nations,” highlighting Iran’s discontent with the current international stance on Israel.
Furthermore, Iran claims to provide unwavering support for Palestine and intends to communicate its reservations regarding the OIC meeting’s outcomes. The Iranian foreign minister expressed hope that this gathering would encourage the international community to take actionable steps in favor of justice for the Palestinian people. By rejecting the notion of recognizing the “Zionist regime,” Iran aims to reestablish its position within the Islamic world, particularly as it faces competition with the Saudi and Egyptian proposals that could potentially moderate Hamas’s role in Gaza.
In summary, Iran’s rejection of the Arab proposal for Gaza in favor of a one-state solution underscores its desire to assert influence in the region. At an OIC meeting, Iranian officials articulated their commitment to Palestinian rights, criticizing the two-state solution and calling for unity among the inhabitants of Palestine. Iran seeks to reinforce its position amid shifting regional dynamics and aims to prevent the marginalization of Hamas in Gaza.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
