Muscat – Following the UN Security Council’s resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Palestinian territories, Oman and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) welcomed the decision to cease hostilities in Gaza.

H E Sayyid Badr bin Hamad al Busaidi, Foreign Minister,  welcomed the decision in a post in X: “The Security Council resolution for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza is a vital first step in addition to unhindered flow of humanitarian aid. Recognition for Palestine is vital now.”

In a statement by the Foreign Ministry, Oman welcomed the decision and reaffirmed its steadfast support for all UN resolutions related to establishing peace in the region, and emphasised the responsibility of the Security Council to implement its resolutions and protect civilians in the occupied Palestinian territories. Oman also stressed the recognition of the State of Palestine in accordance with international law.

Jasem Mohamed al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of GCC, welcomed the Security Council’s decision calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all hostages. He emphasised the importance of all parties complying with their obligations under international law and expanding the flow of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza.

He expressed hope that the decision would alleviate the sufferings of the people of Gaza and contribute to halting the escalation and targeting of Palestinian civilians. He further hoped for a comprehensive resolution to the crisis and an end to the blockade imposed on the territory to alleviate the sufferings of the Palestinian people.

Budaiwi reiterated the urgent need for the international community to deal with the crisis according to unified standards and provide international protection for the Palestinian people. He held Israel legally responsible for its continuous attacks, which have resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of innocent civilians in Gaza, mostly women and children, in clear violation of international humanitarian law.

He called on the Israeli occupying forces to immediately comply with this decision and adhere to UN resolutions and the requirements of international humanitarian law, including the immediate cessation of targeting civilians in Gaza, as well as humanitarian institutions, hospitals, schools and shelters.