Gaza Ceasefire Resolution: Algerian Diplomacy Triumphs, Garners Praise from Palestinian Representatives

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

ALGIERS- In a historic move, the United Nations Security Council has unanimously adopted a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the duration of Ramadan, with subsequent efforts aimed at securing a permanent ceasefire and the lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid delivery to the Palestinian enclave. Spearheaded by Algeria within the Group of Ten (E10), comprising ten non-permanent members of the Security Council, this resolution represents a significant diplomatic victory achieved through meticulous negotiations among UN member states.

The resolution, which paves the way for ending nearly six months of genocidal aggression by the Zionist entity against the Palestinian population, received overwhelming support with 14 votes in favor and one abstention from the United States. This abstention, in contrast to previous US veto actions, suggests a potential shift in American policy towards the criminal entity, amidst growing tensions over Zionist Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s aggressive tactics and policies, including threats of military action in Rafah and restrictions on humanitarian aid access.

Moreover, the European Union has adopted a more assertive stance, with calls to cease all cooperation with Netanyahu’s government and impose sanctions to compel compliance with international decisions, including a sustainable ceasefire.

China’s endorsement of the resolution, following its veto of a previous American proposal, underscores the international community’s growing consensus on the urgency of the Gaza crisis. The Chinese spokesperson’s commendation of Algeria and other nations for their diligent efforts reflects the collaborative spirit driving this diplomatic endeavor.

“I’ve always got your back”: The Story Behind Algeria’s Ambassador Amar Bendjama’s Remark

Following the vote, the global media echoed an impromptu and brief dialogue between Algerian Ambassador to the United Nations, Amar Bendjama, and his Palestinian counterpart Riyad Mansour during a joint press conference. When asked to stand beside him at the forefront, Bendjama responded with a spontaneous yet profoundly meaningful phrase that will resonate throughout history, encapsulating Algeria’s steadfast support for the Palestinian cause: “I’ve always got your back.” Thus, Algeria once again demonstrated unwavering solidarity with Palestine.

Bendjama, the stalwart and free-spirited Algerian diplomat at the United Nations, remained true to his word when he declared, “We will knock on doors again, with the souls of innocent lives in Gaza.” Indeed, Algeria returned with vigor, just a month after the American veto thwarted the Algerian resolution project. As Bendjama stated, Algeria persevered relentlessly to compel the Security Council to assume full and unalloyed responsibility towards the Palestinian people to halt the aggression against Gaza.

The message conveyed by Algeria and the countries persuaded by the merits of its resolution to the Palestinian people was articulated by Amar Bendjama: “The international community, in all its diversity, feels your pain and will not abandon you.” Thus, Algerian diplomacy succeeded in effecting a 180-degree shift in the international stance.

The resolution admonished the occupying forces, decreeing an end to killings and atrocities. This resolution isolated the Zionist entity from the international community, laying bare its criminal nature, which contradicts the humanitarian principles espoused by the United Nations. Algerian diplomacy sought to expose this reality to the entire world. In essence, Algeria exposed the Zionist entity before the eyes and ears of the global community.

The United States, yielding to Algeria’s insistence on knocking on the doors of the United Nations, acknowledged the height and centrality of Algerian diplomacy in the international system. After Secretary Blinken’s call to Bendjama prior to the vote on the adopted resolution, analysts recognized Algeria’s extraordinary diplomacy, which transcended scenarios of veto and abstention.

Indeed, it was not an easy feat. To pass the resolution, at least nine out of the 15 Security Council members needed to be persuaded to adopt it, without facing veto from the five permanent members. Notably, four countries, including Britain and France—both allies of America—voted in favor of the Algerian resolution. The resolution’s passage at the highest international body marked a monumental victory for Algerian diplomacy.

Algerian diplomacy’s astuteness was apparent in its conversion of the American veto into an abstention, marking a significant diplomatic triumph. This success underscores Algeria’s unwavering commitment to justice, humanity, and international solidarity, further solidifying its position as a leading voice in global diplomacy.

In addition to diplomatic measures, Algeria facilitated the repatriation of 51 children yesterday, including 45 Palestinians and 6 Algerians, who were injured during the Zionist aggression in Gaza. President Tebboune’s initiative aims to extend medical treatment to a total of 450 Palestinian children affected by the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Following this humanitarian effort, the second of its kind, further evacuation operations will focus on individuals, especially amputees.

Algeria remains resolute in its commitment to its citizens stranded in Gaza, persisting in efforts to repatriate Algerian nationals despite challenges. Close collaboration with Egyptian authorities, the Palestinian Red Crescent, and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) facilitates this process.

In recent days, Algeria initiated, once more, an airlift to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza civilians affected by the ongoing onslaught. Today, Algeria dispatched a substantial humanitarian aid shipment totaling 162 tons with plans for additional aid dispatches next week. These collective efforts underscore Algeria’s steadfast solidarity with the Palestinian people amidst these trying circumstances.

In this vein, Ibtissam Hamlaoui, President of the Algerian Red Crescent, emphasized the significance of this aid delivery, noting that it brings the total volume of aid sent by Algeria to Palestinian brothers and sisters to an impressive 310 tons since the onset of the aggression against Gaza. Hamlaoui reiterated the organization’s commitment to maintaining continuous communication with Palestinian and Egyptian counterparts to assess needs accurately and ensure the effective distribution of aid.

Algerian Diplomatic Efforts for Gaza Ceasefire Resolution Applauded by the Representative of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine in Algeria

In an exclusive statement to Dzair Tube, Nader El Kaissi, the Representative of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine in Algeria, expressed profound gratitude for Algeria’s pivotal role in advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza. El Kaissi emphasized the significance of the Algerian resolution adopted in the UN Security Council, which calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza.

“We value the Algerian resolution that was adopted in the Security Council and calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza,” stated El Kaissi. “This decision is the beginning of the right path towards reaching a permanent ceasefire and withdrawal from Palestine.”

El Kaissi applauded Algeria’s consistent support for the Palestinian cause, highlighting the alignment between the Algerian government, people, and state institutions in advocating for Palestine. He commended Algerian diplomats for translating words into concrete actions and emphasized the unique unity displayed by Algeria on the Palestinian issue.

Algeria’s representative to the UN Security Council, Ammar Benjamea, had previously vowed to continue advocating for Palestinian rights within the Security Council. El Kaissi praised President Tebboune for his dedication to the Palestinian cause and expressed solidarity with Algeria as a steadfast partner in the resistance.

“We affirm that the UN Security Council resolution highlights that the world is fed up with the Zionist entity and the American administration that protects it,” declared El Kaissi. He urged swift implementation of the resolution to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza and the opening of all designated crossings for that purpose.

Expressing hope for a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, El Kaissi reiterated the Palestinian aspiration for an independent state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. He emphasized the non-negotiable stance on Palestinian territorial integrity and condemned ongoing Israeli atrocities in Gaza, holding the American administration accountable for its complicity.

“We have noticed that the Zionist entity is still committing massacres against our people even after the issuance of this decision,” El Kaissi stated. “The American administration bears responsibility for the massacres that are happening in the Gaza Strip because it is the one that gave the green light to the occupier to do so.”

In conclusion, El Kaissi reiterated gratitude to Algeria for its unwavering support and reiterated the Palestinian commitment to resistance until the establishment of an independent Palestinian state encompassing all historic Palestinian territories.

Hamas Representative in Algeria Praises Algeria’s Diplomatic Resolve in UN Security Council

Dr. Youssef Hamdan, the representative of Hamas in Algeria echoed the same sentiment, lauding Algeria’s steadfast diplomacy in the UN Security Council as a model of resilient diplomacy. He emphasized the technical professionalism with which Algeria represents the Arab group, underscoring that Palestine remains a national cause of paramount importance for Algeria at all levels. Algeria’s official stance reflects the popular sentiment through its political and diplomatic struggle.

He stressed that despite facing numerous international pressures to backtrack or alter its role, “Algeria has withstood these pressures and continued its struggle in a systematic manner. It has succeeded in garnering a resolution from the Security Council despite the ongoing political and legal cover provided by the United States to the Zionist entity.”

“We are confident that Algeria will persist in its diplomatic struggle to isolate the Zionist entity, which has become a burden on the international community,” stated Dr. Hamdan. He expressed assurance that Algeria will continue its efforts to compel the Council to hold the occupation accountable for implementing the resolution and halting its aggression against the Palestinian people.

Dr. Hamdan affirmed that Algerian diplomacy will remain alongside the Palestinian right in all forums until independence is achieved.

Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine Extends Gratitude to President Tebboune and Algerian UN Envoy

In a resounding affirmation of Algeria’s unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people, Mohammed Al-Hamami, the representative of the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine in Algeria, delivered a stirring statement that underscored the nation’s pivotal role in advancing the Palestinian cause. Al-Hamami highlighted Algeria’s historical and ongoing commitment under the leadership of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.

Al-Hamami commenced his statement by lauding Algeria’s enduring dedication to the Palestinian cause, emphasizing President Tebboune’s steadfast commitment to Palestine since assuming office. He praised Algeria’s significant contributions, particularly its instrumental role in facilitating Palestine’s admission to the United Nations in 1974. Al-Hamami also commended President Tebboune’s immediate diplomatic response to Zionist aggression, which unequivocally affirmed the legitimacy of Palestinian resistance.

“From the onset of the heinous Zionist aggression, President Tebboune categorically declared the legitimacy of Palestinian resistance, countering erroneous accusations levied by certain Arab voices,” affirmed Al-Hamami.

Al-Hamami underscored Algeria’s proactive diplomacy at the United Nations, which played a pivotal role in garnering international support and overcoming obstacles posed by the United States. Despite attempts by the United States to obstruct such resolutions, Algeria spearheaded efforts to draft new resolutions, compelling abstention from the U.S. due to its isolation within the international community.

“We extend heartfelt thanks to Algeria for its pivotal role in advancing the Palestinian cause on the global stage,” expressed Al-Hamami, attributing the success of resolutions to Algeria’s diplomatic leadership.

Al-Hamami reiterated Algeria’s steadfast support for Palestine, affirming its commitment to pursuing full membership for the State of Palestine within the United Nations. He urged the international community to rely on Algeria’s unwavering support in advancing Palestinian rights and achieving justice.

However, Al-Hamami also condemned the United States for its double standards, accusing it of granting impunity to Zionist criminals while discussing humanitarian aid and infrastructure development. He emphasized the urgent need for Arab nations to amplify Algeria’s voice and advocacy for Palestine on the international stage.

Highlighting the plight of Palestinians amidst escalating violence, Al-Hamami decried the presence of Zionist embassies in Arab and Muslim countries while Palestinian civilians endure grave atrocities,  declaring the collapse of attempts to normalize relations with the Zionist entity, crediting this failure to the resilience and courage of the Palestinian people. Al-Hamami urged Arabs to prioritize supporting the Palestinian cause over aligning with the American-Zionist agenda, which seeks to exploit and dominate the resources of Arab and Islamic nations.

He emphasized that unity, combined with Arab and Islamic support for the Palestinian cause, will lead to independence. This requires a strong uprising in the West Bank and Al Quds. He noted that the occupation responds only to strength, urging pressure to open land crossings and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza. He declared readiness to protect their people if hostilities continue, emphasizing determination and resolve.

In conclusion, Al-Hamami emphasized the necessity of global solidarity in supporting the Palestinian struggle for independence. He reaffirmed his readiness to defend his people and expressed heartfelt appreciation to Algeria, President Tebboune, and its people, highlighting the shared values of dignity and resilience between the Algerian and Palestinian people.

Algeria’s Historic Role in the Palestinian Cause

Algeria’s historical role in championing the Palestinian cause has been deeply significant, serving as a cornerstone for the Palestinian revolution and a model of steadfastness. Rooted in its own struggle against French colonialism, Algeria has consistently upheld its principles regarding Palestine and the broader issues facing the Arab world. While other nations may cozy up to ministers of the Zionist entity, Algeria stands unwavering in its support for Palestine, strongly denouncing the hasty trend towards normalization exhibited by certain Arab nations.

The historical ties between Algeria and Palestine date back to the 1960s when Algeria opened the first office for the Palestinian revolution under the leadership of martyr Khalil Al-Wazir. This initiative marked a crucial step at a time when no other Arab country provided representation to Palestinians. Algeria has also played a pivotal role in training cadres from the Palestine Liberation Organization and Fatah since their inception in 1965.

During the armed struggle against the Zionist enemy, Algeria distinguished itself by being among the first Arab and liberation countries to open its military bases and armament stores to the PLO and Fatah. Notably, Algerian military participation in the Arab-Zionist wars of 1967-1973 showcased Arab unity and resilience. Algerian forces achieved significant victories, including downing an American Galaxy aircraft and damaging an American fighter jet, leading to the crushing defeat of Zionist Brigade 178 under the command of Ariel Sharon.

Algeria’s commitment to the Palestinian cause was further demonstrated when it welcomed President Yasser Arafat to the United Nations building in 1988, and he announced the establishment of the State of Palestine in Algeria. More recently, in October 2022, Algeria initiated the signing of the Algiers Agreement, unifying Palestinian factions under one common goal.

Beyond political and diplomatic support, the bond between the peoples of Algeria and Palestine transcends borders. Algerians and Palestinians have shown solidarity in various arenas, including sports events. The display of the Algerian flag alongside the Palestinian flag symbolizes the shared struggle for justice and liberation. Besides, Algerian athletes always withdraw from international competitions due to their steadfast refusal to play against or even greet Zionists, underscoring the depth of the Algerian-Palestinian bond.

Expressions of solidarity are deeply ingrained in Algerian society, epitomized by President Houari Boumediene’s famous statement, “We are with Palestine, whether it is oppressed or oppressor.” Stadium chants and the principled stance of Algerian athletes further underscore the depth of the Algerian-Palestinian bond.

In conclusion, the Palestinian cause remains a central tenet of Algeria’s national agenda, reflecting its unwavering commitment to justice and solidarity. The Zionist hostility towards Algeria only serves to strengthen the enduring bond between the two nations, rooted in shared struggles and aspirations for freedom.