OIC Warns Slovenia, EU Over Reported Palestine Recognition Reversal

TDT | Manama

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The Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Hissein Brahim Taha, has expressed deep concern over media reports suggesting that Slovenia is considering withdrawing its recognition of the State of Palestine and relocating its embassy to occupied Jerusalem.

In two official letters sent to Slovenia's Foreign Minister, Tony Kaiser, and the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, the OIC chief warned that such a move would constitute a serious violation of international law and United Nations Security Council Resolutions 476, 478 and 2334.

Taha said withdrawing recognition of Palestine and moving the embassy to occupied Jerusalem would contradict the European Union's long-standing position, which does not recognize Israeli sovereignty over Jerusalem. He warned that the reported decision would undermine the two-state solution based on the 1967 borders, infringe upon the rights of the Palestinian people, and offend the sentiments of Muslims and Christians worldwide.

The Secretary-General also cautioned that the move could have significant political consequences for Slovenia's relations with the Islamic world and damage the country's international credibility.

In his letter to the European Union, Taha urged the bloc to ensure that member states adhere to the EU's established position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He warned that allowing any member state to depart from this stance could create a dangerous precedent and encourage further unilateral actions that conflict with international law.

The OIC called on the European Union to encourage Slovenia to maintain its recognition of the State of Palestine and avoid any measures that could prejudge the final status of Jerusalem.

Concluding his letters, Taha reaffirmed the OIC's commitment to strengthening relations with Slovenia and European countries. He expressed hope that Slovenia would preserve its recognition of Palestine, refrain from relocating its embassy, and contribute constructively to peace and stability in the Middle East, while also expressing confidence in the European Union's role in promoting justice and regional stability.