Morocco stresses its commitment before the ICJ in support Palestinian Cause

Morocco actively participated in the ICJ hearings held from February 19 to 29, in solidarity with Palestine’s oral presentation on February 19.

In this context, Morocco underscored the unwavering dedication of HM King Mohammed VI, as the Chairperson of the Al-Quds Committee, in supporting the Palestinian cause during the recent hearings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), as part of the case seeking an advisory opinion on the legal ramifications of Israel’s policies and actions in the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem.

Morocco’s presence at these hearings reflects its ongoing commitment to the Palestinian cause. The Kingdom had previously submitted a written plea to the ICJ, which was duly acknowledged by the Court, in which, Morocco, whose Sovereign chairs the Al-Quds Committee of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), reiterated its determination to safeguard the legal, historical, political, and spiritual significance of the Holly City of Jerusalem as a city of peace for all monotheistic religions.

Additionally, Morocco reaffirmed its active commitment to upholding international law and promoting peace in the Middle East, which emphasizes the necessity of a just, comprehensive and lasting solution based on the two-state principle, with East Jerusalem as the capital of an independent Palestinian state, based on the borders of June 4, 1967, and living alongside Israel in peace and security, in accordance with international legality, UN resolutions and in line with the Arab Peace Initiative.

Morocco’s plea drew upon the principles outlined in the Appeal of Al-Quds/Jerusalem, signed, on March 30, 2019, by HM King Mohammed VI and Pope Francis. This document highlights the importance of preserving Jerusalem, as a common heritage of humanity as well as a symbol of mutual respect and dialogue among religions.

Additionally, Morocco’s plea stressed the consensus within the international community regarding the legal status of Israeli settlements in certain parts of the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Al-Quds/ Jerusalem, which constitute an obstacle to peace and threatens the viability of a two-state solution.

The resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through dialogue and negotiation, in accordance with relevant UN resolutions, in particular resolutions 242 and 338, remains paramount for lasting peace in the region, as emphasized in Morocco’s plea.

Morocco reiterated its commitment to advancing the Palestinian cause both bilaterally and multilaterally within the United Nations.

Finally, Morocco recalled His Majesty the King’s message on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People in November 2022, urging meaningful negotiations towards a just and comprehensive solution, in alignment with international legitimacy and the two-state solution.

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