BRICS members agree on creation of ‘independent, viable’ state of Palestine, Pg9

Key Highlights:

• BRICS Foreign Ministers reaffirmed support for an "independent and viable state of Palestine" within pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
• The meeting concluded with a Chair's Statement due to disagreements among members on several issues.
• Iran asserted its position on issues like relations with the UAE and control over the Strait of Hormuz.
• The statement called for unifying the West Bank and Gaza Strip under the Palestinian Authority.

Detailed Insights:

• The call for Palestinian statehood aligns with the two-state solution and international law, including relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
• Disagreements arose between the UAE and Iran regarding the Gaza Strip, with Iran alleging the UAE's support for the US and Israel.
• The paragraph on the Gaza Strip described it as an "inseparable part of the Occupied Palestinian Territory".
• Iran also resisted a paragraph highlighting the importance of Bab Al-Mandab Strait and the Red Sea, where Houthi militias have increased activities.
• Iran blamed the United States for the complicated situation in the Strait of Hormuz, citing a blockade.
• The Chair’s Statement acknowledged differing views among members regarding the situation in West Asia/Middle East.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Two-State Solution: A framework for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by establishing two independent states.
• Occupied Palestinian Territory: Lands occupied by Israel since 1967, including the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem.
• Strait of Hormuz: A narrow waterway between Oman and Iran, strategically important for global oil transit.