| “A genuine path forward requires not just a cessation of attacks, but a commitment to restoring sovereignty and protecting civilian life.” |
** “This cannot be reduced to a short-term pause while underlying
conditions remain unchanged,” said AFIC President Dr Rateb Jneid.
|
AFIC Welcomes Reported Pause in Hostilities but Calls for Full Withdrawal from Lebanon
(See translation in Arabic section)
Sydney-Middle East Times Int'l: The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) welcomes reports of a temporary suspension of military action by the US against Iran and indications that this pause may extend to hostilities involving Lebanon.
Any move towards de-escalation is a positive and necessary step, particularly given the devastating human toll of recent weeks across the region. The loss of civilian life, the destruction of infrastructure, and the displacement of entire communities have underscored the urgent need for an immediate cessation of violence.
At the same time, AFIC cautions that such developments must be approached with care. Temporary pauses in hostilities do not, in themselves, guarantee a lasting resolution. The credibility of any ceasefire will ultimately depend on whether it is formalised, upheld by all parties, and translated into meaningful and sustained de-escalation.
AFIC notes reports that Israel has also agreed to this pause and that it is to include the Lebanese front. However, any cessation of hostilities must go beyond a temporary halt in military operations.
“This cannot be reduced to a short-term pause while underlying conditions remain unchanged,” said AFIC President Dr Rateb Jneid. “A genuine path forward requires not just a cessation of attacks, but a commitment to restoring sovereignty and protecting civilian life.”
AFIC emphasises that any agreement must include the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from sovereign Lebanese territory and the immediate removal of conditions preventing civilians from returning to their homes.
The displacement of large segments of the Lebanese population and the destruction of infrastructure have created a humanitarian crisis that cannot be resolved without allowing communities to safely return and rebuild.
AFIC also reiterates that lasting peace will require a broader commitment to diplomacy, adherence to international law, and an end to unilateral military actions that have repeatedly escalated conflict across the region.
The people of Lebanon, Iran and the wider region deserve more than temporary pauses in violence. They deserve a durable and just peace grounded in sovereignty, accountability and respect for civilian life.
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AFIC, established in 1964, stands as the Peak Muslim Organisation in Australia, with 170 members including 9 State and Territory Councils. It has a rich history of pioneering numerous community services and actively advocating for the rights and representation of the Muslim community.
Authorised:
Dr Rateb Jneid, President |
