In a landmark and historic diplomatic development, several Arab and Muslim nations, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, and Jordan, have for the first time publicly condemned the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel by Hamas. This joint condemnation came during a high-level United Nations (UN) conference held in New York, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia. The declaration urged Hamas to end its governance of the Gaza Strip and surrender control to the Palestinian Authority, signaling a major shift in the Arab world’s approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The seven-page declaration, signed by the Arab League, the European Union (EU), and 17 other nations, represents a significant turn of events in global geopolitics surrounding the ongoing war in Gaza. It calls for an end to the conflict, release of hostages still held by Hamas, and a transition toward a sovereign Palestinian state, emphasizing international cooperation and oversight.

Arab Nations' Stand Against Hamas

While Arab countries have traditionally supported the Palestinian cause, this declaration marks a break from the past by explicitly condemning Hamas' actions. The October 7 attacks, which triggered the ongoing war, involved infiltration into Israeli territory, resulting in over 1,200 deaths, according to Israeli figures.

The declaration stated:

"In the context of ending the war in Gaza, Hamas must end its rule in Gaza and hand over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority, with international engagement and support, in line with the objective of a sovereign and independent Palestinian State."

This statement not only rebukes Hamas for its violent actions but also supports a transition to a more internationally accepted governance structure in Gaza.

Condemnation of Israel’s Actions in Gaza

Despite the tough stance on Hamas, the declaration also sharply criticised Israel for its ongoing military campaign in the Gaza Strip. The Arab and Muslim countries condemned Israel's siege tactics, bombing of civilian infrastructure, and restriction of humanitarian aid, which have caused what they termed a “devastating humanitarian catastrophe.”

The document emphasized:

"We also condemn the attacks by Israel against civilians in Gaza and civilian infrastructure, siege and starvation, which have resulted in a protection crisis."

Further, the statement called for an end to Israel's restrictions on UN agencies operating for Palestinian refugees and urged the deployment of foreign forces to help stabilize the region.

International Support for the Declaration

The initiative gained strong support from France and Saudi Arabia, who co-chaired the event. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot hailed the move as “historic and unprecedented,” stating that the declaration reflected a growing consensus in the Arab world about the need for normalising relations with Israel and resolving the long-standing conflict through diplomatic means.

Barrot’s statement underscores the importance of this shift, particularly as France and Saudi Arabia have taken prominent roles in mediating international peace efforts in the Middle East.

Backdrop: 21 Months of War in Gaza

The October 7, 2023, attacks marked the beginning of what has now become a 21-month-long conflict between Israel and Hamas. The war has led to immense devastation in the Gaza Strip, displacing nearly all of its 2.3 million residents, according to United Nations reports.

More than 35,000 Palestinians are believed to have been killed or injured, and basic infrastructure—such as hospitals, water systems, and electricity networks—has been severely damaged. The UN and humanitarian agencies have consistently warned of a deepening humanitarian crisis, with famine-like conditions and widespread displacement.

Despite multiple efforts by international organizations, including ceasefire proposals and humanitarian aid missions, the conflict has continued unabated. The most recent declaration by Arab nations marks a significant attempt to reshape the conflict’s trajectory, advocating for political resolution over continued armed resistance.

The Role of BRICS and Global Dynamics

This declaration also comes amid increasing tensions involving BRICS nations, of which some members—like China and Russia—support Palestinian claims. However, the move by traditionally sympathetic Arab nations to distance themselves from Hamas is seen as a potential shift in regional power dynamics, possibly leading to a realignment of alliances in the Middle East.

Saudi Arabia's involvement is particularly noteworthy. Once a staunch supporter of Palestinian armed resistance, Riyadh is now advocating for a governance model rooted in diplomacy, and working alongside Western powers to find a solution that might lead to eventual normalization with Israel.

Hamas' Position and Possible Outcomes

Hamas has not yet responded to the declaration, but the pressure from key Arab and Muslim states is expected to further isolate the group internationally. If Hamas does agree to relinquish control of Gaza, the next steps would likely involve:

• Internationally supervised disarmament

• Reintegration of Gaza under the Palestinian Authority

• Gradual reopening of Gaza’s economy and infrastructure with foreign aid

• Possibility of resumed peace talks with Israel

While such a scenario remains complex and fraught with risks, it offers a glimmer of hope in an otherwise bleak and protracted conflict.

Conclusion: A Possible Turning Point

The UN declaration, with signatures from the Arab League, EU, and 17 countries, is being hailed as a turning point in the Gaza conflict. By taking a clear stance against both Hamas' militant tactics and Israel’s punitive operations, the signatories are pushing for a balanced, long-term peace framework.

Whether this move will result in tangible change on the ground remains to be seen. However, the diplomatic message is unambiguous: continued violence is no longer tolerable, and international collaboration is essential for achieving sustainable peace in the region.

As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, and international patience runs thin, this unified condemnation by Arab nations sends a powerful signal that new political solutions must replace old cycles of violence.

The Upcoming IPOs in this week and coming weeks are BLT Logistics, Bhadora Industries, Highway Infrastructure, Flysbs Aviation, Parth Electricals & Engineering, Jyoti Global Plast, Essex Marine, Aaradhya Disposal Industries.

The Current active IPO are Cash Ur Drive Marketing, Renol Polychem, B.D. Industries (Pune), NSDL, Takyon Networks, Mehul Colours, M&B Engineering, Sri Lotus Developers & Realty, Aditya Infotech, Lakshmi India Finance, Kaytex Fabrics.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.