African Union Summit Condemns Israel’s Offensive in Gaza, Calls For Immediate Ceasefire

Leaders gathered at the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa delivered a resounding denunciation of Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza, labeling it a grave violation of international humanitarian law and calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

Moussa Faki, Chair of the African Union Commission, delivered a powerful condemnation, describing Israel’s actions as the “most flagrant” violation of human rights and accusing the nation of committing atrocities tantamount to genocide. Faki’s remarks echoed throughout the summit hall, punctuated by murmurs of agreement and solemn nods from delegates.

Standing alongside Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh, Faki reiterated the African Union’s unwavering solidarity with the people of Palestine. “We strongly condemn these attacks that are unprecedented in the history of mankind,” Faki declared, his voice resonating with emotion. “We stand with the people of Palestine in their quest for justice and peace.”

The sentiment reverberated throughout the assembly, with delegates applauding in a show of unified support for the Palestinian cause. Azali Assoumani, President of the Comoros and outgoing Chairperson of the African Union, added his voice to the chorus of condemnation, lambasting Israel’s actions as genocidal.

“The international community cannot turn a blind eye to the atrocities being committed in Palestine,” Assoumani asserted passionately. “We must hold Israel accountable for its crimes against humanity.”

The condemnation comes amid escalating violence in Gaza, where a quarter of the population is reportedly facing starvation as a result of the conflict. The situation deteriorated following Hamas’ assault into Israel, which resulted in civilian casualties and widespread devastation.

Israel, however, vehemently denies accusations of genocide, asserting that its military operations target Hamas militants while striving to minimize civilian casualties. The Israeli delegation, absent from the summit, released a statement reaffirming its commitment to self-defense and condemning Hamas’ use of civilians as human shields.

Despite Israel’s defense, the overwhelming sentiment at the African Union Summit remained firmly in support of Palestine, with leaders and delegates alike expressing solidarity with the besieged population of Gaza.

The condemnation of Israel’s offensive in Gaza was not the only item on the agenda at the African Union Summit. Concerns over conflicts and coups across the African continent also took center stage, highlighting the myriad challenges facing the region.

Faki addressed tensions surrounding Senegal’s postponed election and violence in Eastern Congo, Sudan, the Sahel, and Libya, calling for a revival of the spirit of African solidarity and Pan-Africanism to address these pressing issues.

“From Senegal to Sudan, from Congo to Libya, our continent is grappling with conflicts and instability,” Faki remarked somberly. “But in the face of adversity, we must stand together as one Africa, united in our determination to overcome these challenges.”

As the summit draws to a close, the resounding message of solidarity with Palestine and calls for peace in Gaza echo across the African continent, reaffirming the African Union’s commitment to upholding justice, human rights, and stability in the region