Tinubu seeks end to Israel-Gaza war at Saudi summit

President Bola Tinubu has called for an end to Israeli aggression in Gaza, warning that “the conflict in Palestine has persisted for far too long, inflicting immeasurable suffering.”

Tinubu made the call while addressing the extraordinary Arab-Islamic Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday, November 11, 2024.

The president, who expressed deep concern on the humanitarian conditions in Gaza, affirmed Nigeria’s support for a two-state solution, where both Israeli and Palestinians can co-exist in security and dignity.

He noted that this solution remained a viable part to lasting peace in the region.

Tinubu said: “The conflict in Palestine has persisted for far too long, inflicting immeasurable suffering on countless lives.

“As representatives of nations that value justice, dignity, and the sanctity of human life, we have a moral obligation to collectively bring about an immediate end to this conflict.

“It is not enough to issue empty condemnations. The world must work towards an end to Israeli aggression in Gaza, which has persisted for far too long.

“No political aim, no military strategy, and no security concern should come at the expense of so many innocent lives.”

Tinubu departs Abuja for Arab-Islamic summit in Saudi Arabia Sunday

Tinubu, according to a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, further called on parties in the conflict in the Middle East to respect the principles of proportionality and the basic rights of civilians, consistent with global legal and diplomatic frameworks.

Explaining Nigeria’s principled and consistent stance on the two-state solution, President Tinubu noted that it stands as a beacon of hope, representing the rights of both Israelis and Palestinians to self-determination and peace.

He however commended King Salman of Saudi Arabia and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for convening the summit, describing it as a vital opportunity to renew diplomatic efforts and work toward a sustainable peace.

Tinubu assured that Nigeria given its own experiences would continue to support international efforts that advance peace and stability in the Middle East.

In his remarks, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman condemned Israeli actions in Gaza and Lebanon, including the targeting of civilians and the continued violation of the Al-Aqsa mosque.

He also condemned Israeli ban on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) from delivering relief aid to Palestinians and the displacement of Lebanese people.

The Star