Accra: Dr Varsen O. V. Aghabekian, Palestinian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, has called on global leaders to ensure that Israel adheres to the ceasefire agreement in Palestine. She expressed concerns that despite the agreement, violence continues with about 400 Palestinians reportedly killed and double that number injured.
According to Ghana News Agency, during her visit to the Embassy of the State of Palestine in Accra, Ghana, Dr Aghabekian addressed journalists, stating that the situation remains volatile and that the attacks have not ceased. She emphasized the need for a complete ceasefire, urging international intervention to halt ongoing hostilities.
Dr Aghabekian highlighted the restriction of humanitarian aid into Palestine and the daily threats faced by Palestinians from illegal Israeli settlers in the West Bank. She described incidents of destruction such as uprooted trees, demolished homes, and attacks on civilians, alongside violations in East Jerusalem that limit access for residents of the West Bank and Gaza.
Addressing reports on the exchange of hostages, she noted that most Israeli captives have been returned, but the extensive destruction in Gaza has complicated the identification and retrieval of remains. She also pointed out that Israel continues to detain 11,000 Palestinians, many held without charges under administrative detention.
The Foreign Minister reiterated Palestine's commitment to peace and recognized Israel as a state, urging respect for Palestinian sovereignty. She referred to the New York Declaration, urging countries that endorsed it to support Palestine's path to becoming a sovereign and independent state.
Dr Aghabekian's visit to Ghana aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation, including signing memorandums of understanding in various sectors. She paid tribute to Ghana's first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, by laying a wreath at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, acknowledging the historical ties between Ghana and Palestine.
She also praised Ghanaian figures like President John Dramani Mahama, Mr Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa, and Mr Kwesi Pratt Jr. for their support against Israeli actions in Palestine. Mr Pratt Jr. received recognition from President Mahmoud Abbas for his advocacy, stating his involvement was driven by a commitment to justice rather than seeking rewards.