Foreign ministers from several Muslim and Arab countries have expressed strong concern over recent Israeli statements suggesting the Rafah Crossing be opened in only one direction to facilitate the transfer of Gaza residents into Egypt. The joint response came in a statement issued on Friday by the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, the UAE, Indonesia, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
The ministers rejected any attempt to forcibly expel Palestinians from their land, stressing that such actions would be unacceptable and contrary to international law. They reiterated their united stance against displacement and warned that any move aimed at altering Gaza’s demographic reality would deepen the humanitarian crisis and threaten regional stability.
The statement also called for full adherence to the plan proposed by US President Donald Trump, emphasising that Rafah Crossing must remain open in both directions to allow free movement of people and essential goods. The ministers highlighted that no resident of Gaza should be compelled to leave the territory.
They said conditions must instead be created for Palestinians to remain on their land, rebuild their lives, and contribute to the long-term stability of their homeland. The joint statement stressed the importance of a comprehensive strategy aimed at reducing suffering, restoring security, and improving humanitarian conditions for the people of Gaza.
The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to working together to uphold Palestinian rights and support efforts toward a just and lasting solution to the conflict.
