The Jeddah-based Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is optimistic about the resumption of talks recently between Israelis and Palestinians, but it has urged Muslims to provide more aid to help the Palestinian economy and infrastructure.
Professor Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, the secretary-general of the OIC, said his optimism stems from the talks he had with President Mahmoud Abbas during his recent visit to Palestine.
In an exclusive video interview with Arab News’ Siraj Wahab, Ihsanoglu called on the Muslim world to provide more financial aid to maintain Palestinian cities. “The situation is dire,” he said. “Mere statements will not do.”
He called on all Muslims to visit Palestine to help boost its economy.
“I am of the view that when Muslims start visiting Palestine, the Palestinians will feel happy that Muslims are with them. And secondly, it will strengthen our claim on Islam’s third holiest mosque,” he said. “The previous view that going to Palestine will only help Israelis no longer holds water,” he said.
