Kazakhstan calls for diplomacy and humanitarian aid in Gaza crisis: A vision for peace and stability in the Middle East
In a recent joint summit convened by the League of Arab States (LAS) and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Murat Nurtleu, voiced Kazakhstan’s commitment to diplomatic efforts in resolving the escalating conflict in Gaza and the instability in Lebanon. His address underscored Kazakhstan’s dedication to peace, humanitarian aid, and the pursuit of a two-state solution as the only viable path toward a lasting resolution for the Palestinian people, Kazinform News Agency reports.
Nurtleu opened by conveying the greetings of Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, expressing solidarity with Saudi Arabia’s leadership efforts in crisis mitigation.
Praising Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his work to mitigate the catastrophe in Gaza, Nurtleu stated, “Conflicts in the Middle East are claiming the lives of thousands whilst leaving millions without any hope for tomorrow.”
The escalating humanitarian disaster in Gaza remains at the forefront of Kazakhstan’s concerns. Nurtleu described the worsening conditions as an “epic failure of humanity and for the entire international community.” Emphasizing Kazakhstan’s commitment to peaceful resolution and global collaboration, he added, “My country stands in full solidarity with the United Nations Secretary General’s belief that the world cannot afford for Lebanon to become another Gaza.”
Kazakhstan has long advocated for a two-state solution based on United Nations resolutions. Nurtleu reaffirmed this stance, underscoring his country’s belief that establishing a sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital represents “the only viable solution for ensuring the long-term rights of Palestinians to self-determination and statehood.” He expressed optimism in the recent establishment of the Global Alliance for Implementation of the Two-State Solution, a diplomatic initiative aimed at promoting international recognition of Palestine.
The humanitarian aspect of Nurtleu’s address was especially poignant as he noted the critical needs of Gaza’s civilian population, which he said were worsening with the approaching winter. He described how “severe damage of infrastructure, lack of access to primary needs including medical care” exacerbate already dire conditions, further worsened by potential restrictions in Gaza. Kazakhstan, he emphasized, aligns itself with other nations in calling for an “immediate ceasefire and unhindered delivery of critical aid to Palestine.”
Nurtleu also highlighted Kazakhstan’s Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) as a key resource for mobilizing support, calling on stakeholders to participate in fundraising campaigns to assist Gazan civilians. He asserted that the IOFS could alleviate hunger and suffering by coordinating relief efforts, a sentiment resonating with Kazakhstan’s commitment to humanitarian support within the region.
Addressing the broader question of peace and security, Nurtleu underscored the essential role of UN peacekeeping missions in conflict zones, including the Golan Heights and Lebanon, where Kazakhstan contributes military personnel.
He condemned any aggression toward peacekeeping forces, stating, “We strongly condemn any attacks or actions against UN peacekeepers or diplomatic missions.”
Nurtleu’s address at the summit highlighted Kazakhstan’s consistent support for peace and stability through a two-state solution and reinforced the country’s commitment to humanitarian aid for Gaza. His comments framed Kazakhstan as an emerging middle-power with a strong commitment to multilateralism and peaceful resolution, furthering the country’s role as a diplomatic partner in Middle Eastern conflict resolution efforts.