Algeria has voiced its “deep concern” and “great regret” over the escalating situation in the Middle East following Israel’s aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran. In a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was noted that despite international consensus on the need to de-escalate tensions, Israel’s attack on Iran overnight has led to extremely dangerous developments, further worsened by U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
The ministry emphasized the global call for an immediate ceasefire and a return to negotiations, urging a “sincere” and “good-faith” search for a peaceful resolution to the Iranian nuclear issue. Algeria expressed “serious concern” and “profound regret” over this escalation, which heightens regional tensions and exposes the area to unprecedented risks with unpredictable consequences. The sensitivity of the current moment, it argued, demands lessons from the region’s history, which clearly shows that military options have never resolved its conflicts.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that the top priority is to return to “the safest, most effective, and least costly path: peaceful political dialogue, based on international law and the UN Charter.” This approach, it believes, could prevent further tensions and tragedies in the region.
Iran-Israel: Attaf Warns of ‘Open War’ Consequences, Highlights Palestinian Issue
This warning resonated in the remarks of Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf, delivered on Saturday at the 51st session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers in Istanbul. In a forceful speech, Attaf condemned an “exceptional” international context marked by “unrestrained use of force” and disregard for international law.
“Today, some advocate the right of the aggressor to defend itself against the aggressed,” he criticized, referencing the Iran-Israel tensions. He highlighted the Middle East’s critical phase, warning of “multiform catastrophes” if an open conflict erupts. Attaf cited recurring Israeli strikes on Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen, as well as the brutal war in Gaza for nearly two years.
“What kind of security does the Israeli occupier claim when it is built on violating the sovereignty of neighboring countries with impunity?” he questioned, denouncing an “absolute hegemony” threatening regional stability.
Attaf firmly reiterated that a lasting solution in the Middle East hinges on a just resolution of the Palestinian issue. “It is imperative to end the occupation of Palestinian and Arab territories and accelerate the creation of an independent Palestinian state with El-Qods as its capital,” he insisted. He called for an end to Israel’s “impunity,” criticizing the international community’s double standards. “Peace cannot be built on the logic of force and fait accompli,” he asserted, demanding strict adherence to international law for all, without exception.
In conclusion, Attaf warned that “provoked conflicts” and “artificial wars” should not obscure the real issues. For him, the conditions for a just and lasting peace are clear: respect for international law, an end to occupation, and rejection of hegemonism.
