The Council of Muslim Elders, chaired by His Eminence Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, welcomed the announcement made by French President Emmanuel Macron regarding his country’s intention to recognize the State of Palestine.
In a statement, the council expressed its appreciation for this decision, highlighting that it could contribute to international efforts aimed at achieving a just and comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian issue. It reinforces the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, particularly the establishment of their independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital, and the implementation of relevant international resolutions.
The council reiterated its call for the international community to assume its responsibilities and act swiftly to halt aggressions in the region, allowing unobstructed access for humanitarian and relief aid. It affirmed its support for all initiatives aimed at alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people, who have endured hardships for over seven decades, a move that would foster peace and stability in the region and the world.
Additionally, the World Council for Tolerance and Peace commended Macron’s announcement.
His Excellency Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Jarwan, President of the Council, stated that this initiative is a courageous and responsible step toward upholding justice and enhancing peace prospects in the region. He emphasized that recognizing the State of Palestine is the most direct way to achieve stability and peace in the Middle East, positively affecting international security and peace. He reinforced that the recognition of the Palestinian state is the inalienable right of the Palestinian people in accordance with international legitimacy.
He added that the World Council for Tolerance and Peace fully supports this French initiative, viewing it as a positive impetus for the international community to move forward with tangible steps toward establishing lasting and just peace while maintaining global security and stability.
The council urged all countries to follow this initiative, joining efforts to uphold justice and achieve coexistence and sustainable peace among peoples. It pointed out that establishing justice is the fundamental pillar of tolerance, development, and stability.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi also expressed his welcome during a phone call with President Macron regarding France’s intention to officially recognize the State of Palestine. He underscored that this decision aligns with French efforts to implement a two-state solution as the only path to fulfilling the aspirations of both the Palestinian and Israeli peoples to coexist peacefully and to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.