BRICS Leaders Advocate for Gaza Truce and Two-State Solution in Middle East Conflict
At a Nov. 21 virtual summit, the BRICS group of nations, comprised of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an international conference aimed at resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa appealed for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the opening of humanitarian corridors, and the release of civilian hostages held by Palestinian faction Hamas. He urged the United Nations to dispatch rapid-deployment forces to Gaza to monitor a cessation of hostilities and protect civilians. Mr. Ramaphosa also called on third countries to desist from fueling the conflict by halting the supply of weapons to the warring parties. The Israeli bombardments in the Gaza Strip were prompted by cross-border raids by Hamas. Since 2007, the Gaza Strip has been subject to a blockade by Israel and Egypt. Russian President Vladimir Putin urged a political solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict and stated that BRICS members and regional states can play a key role in this regard. The final statement by BRICS leaders asserted that a just and lasting solution to the Middle East conflict can only be achieved by peaceful means and called for direct negotiations based on international law and relevant U.N. Security Council resolutions in order to reach a two-state solution.
