Syria’s interim President, Ahmed al-Sharaa speaking at the extraordinary Arab League Summit in Cairo.
Speaking at the extraordinary Arab League Summit in Cairo, al-Sharaa condemned Israel's continuous attacks on Syrian sovereignty, stressing the need for Arab unity in defending Palestinian rights and countering displacement attempts in Gaza.
"Syria will always support equitable Arabian causes," al-Sharaa declared, emphasizing the nation's historical role in championing Arab solidarity. He expressed deep gratitude to all who supported the Syrian revolution and reiterated Syria's determination to build a better future despite external threats.
Al-Sharaa strongly denounced calls for the displacement of Palestinians, labelling such plans as "shameful" and a "threat" that cannot be accepted. He warned that these forced displacement schemes pose a challenge to all Arabs, serving as a test of their commitment to their ultimate cause.
"This is a test for us as Arabs to gauge how we stick to our ultimate cause," he stated, urging collective Arab action to counter these threats.
Reaffirming Syria's commitment to resisting Israeli aggression, al-Sharaa accused Israel of continuously violating the 1974 Disengagement Agreement, which was meant to establish a ceasefire and separate forces following the 1973 war. He accused Israel of escalating its military operations, expanding occupied territories, and disregarding international agreements.
"Israel has not stopped its attacks on Syria," he said. "Syrian sovereignty must remain intact, and Arab states must take on their responsibilities towards Syria."
Al-Sharaa announced Syria's readiness to participate in diplomatic and political efforts to pressure the international community to support Gaza and halt Israeli aggression. "Syria is ready to participate in all it can to put pressure on the international community and help Gaza," he affirmed.
He also emphasized that the Palestinian people hold the right to return and determine their fate, rejecting any attempts to strip them of their homeland. "Right of return means the right to decide one's own fate," he said.
"The international community must help Gaza," al-Sharaa insisted, calling for practical mechanisms to prevent further Israeli violations.
His remarks come as Egypt recently unveiled its comprehensive Gaza reconstruction plan, which aims to counter efforts to reshape the Palestinian territory under a controversial plan. Egypt's initiative focuses on rebuilding infrastructure, enhancing sustainable development, and ensuring Palestinians remain in their homeland.
The ambitious five-year plan seeks to transform Gaza into a modern, self-sufficient city, incorporating smart buildings, sustainable industries, and improved urban planning. It includes a structured roadmap for housing, economic revitalization, and governance, with the ultimate goal of creating 500,000 jobs and accommodating up to three million people.
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