Istanbul: First Deputy Speaker of the Lower House, Dr. Khamis Atieh, has called for "unified" Arab positions to confront escalating regional challenges. Atieh's call to action was made during his participation in the coordination meeting of the Arab Group on the sidelines of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) General Assembly in Istanbul, Trkiye.
According to Jordan News Agency, Atieh stated that the region is navigating a "critical" phase amid an increase in tensions and attacks affecting the sovereignty and security of Arab states. At the event, he emphasized the rejection and condemnation of any foreign interference or violations threatening Arab national security, particularly highlighting Iranian attacks on some Arab territories and Jordan.
He noted the continuing danger of escalation in some Arab countries and expressed hope for stability in Sudan and Lebanon. Atieh urged adherence to principles of good neighborliness and non-interference in internal affairs, in line with international law and the United Nations Charter.
Furthermore, Atieh affirmed that the Palestinian cause remains the primary challenge facing the region, citing ongoing violations by the Israeli occupation against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and West Bank. These violations, he noted, include attacks on civilians and infrastructure and obstruction of humanitarian relief efforts.
Atieh warned that the continuation of these policies by various parties would only worsen the cycle of violence and undermine prospects for stability. He called for a "unified" Arab stance to halt violations and achieve a "comprehensive" ceasefire.
He stressed the necessity of unifying Arab efforts in international and parliamentary forums to bolster capabilities in defending Arab causes. Atieh reiterated his condemnation of attacks targeting Jordan and other Arab states.
In his closing remarks, Atieh highlighted the Kingdom's pivotal role under King Abdullah II's leadership in protecting Jerusalem's Islamic and Christian holy sites through Hashemite custodianship and its political and humanitarian support for the Palestinian people.