Speech by Seyed Abbas Araghchi at the 17th Al Jazeera Forum.

Speech by Seyed Abbas Araghchi at the 17th Al Jazeera Forum.

Excellencies,

Distinguished guests,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh,

It is a privilege to address this esteemed gathering at the Al Jazeera Forum, a platform that has consistently fostered dialogue on the most urgent challenges facing our world today. I extend my sincere appreciation to the organizers and to all participants committed to truth, justice, and constructive engagement.

Today, I wish to speak about a matter that transcends politics, geography, and time—the question of Palestine.

For decades, Palestine has remained the central issue in our region. It is not merely a political dispute; it is a profound moral test for the international community. It asks whether the principles of justice, human dignity, and international law are applied equally—or selectively.

What we are witnessing today, particularly in Gaza, is not an isolated crisis. It is the continuation of a long-standing tragedy marked by occupation, displacement, and recurring cycles of violence. The humanitarian situation has reached alarming levels, with civilians—especially women and children—bearing the heaviest burden.

The ongoing developments compel us to confront difficult but necessary questions:

Can there be lasting peace without justice?

Can stability be achieved while fundamental rights are denied?

And can the international system maintain credibility if it fails to act in the face of such suffering?

The answer, clearly, is no.

The Palestinian cause remains the moral compass of our region. It reflects the broader struggle between justice and injustice, between the rule of law and the rule of power. Any attempt to marginalize or overlook this issue will only deepen instability and prolong conflict.

At the same time, we are witnessing significant transformations in the global order. The emergence of new powers and the shift toward a multipolar world present both opportunities and challenges. However, these changes must not come at the expense of fundamental human values. Justice must remain at the core of international relations.

The responsibility of the international community is clear. There must be a renewed commitment to upholding international law, protecting civilians, and ensuring accountability. Selective application of principles undermines trust and weakens global institutions.

Dialogue and diplomacy must prevail over confrontation and coercion. Sustainable peace cannot be imposed; it must be built on fairness, mutual respect, and the recognition of legitimate rights.

Furthermore, the voices of the people—those directly affected by conflict—must not be ignored. Their resilience, their suffering, and their aspirations for dignity and freedom must guide our collective efforts.

Let us be clear: the path to peace is neither simple nor immediate. It requires courage, honesty, and a willingness to address root causes rather than symptoms. It requires the international community to move beyond rhetoric and take meaningful, consistent action.

In closing, I urge all stakeholders to reflect on the responsibility we carry—not only to our nations but to humanity as a whole. History will judge us not by our words, but by our actions.

Let this forum serve as a turning point—where dialogue leads to understanding, and understanding leads to justice.

Thank you.

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