MWL Condemns Israeli Plan to Double Golan Heights Population

The Muslim World League (MWL) has condemned the Israeli government’s decision to double the population of the annexed Golan Heights, Arab News reported today. In a statement, the MWL urged the international community to take action against what it described as ongoing Israeli violations that undermine the prospects for security and stability for the Syrian people.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced the unanimous approval of an $11 million plan aimed at demographic development in the Golan, citing the need to respond to the ongoing conflict in Syria. The MWL emphasized the importance of respecting Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Additionally, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) condemned the Israeli expansion of settlements in the Golan Heights. The UAE’s foreign ministry stated that the decision represents a deliberate effort to extend occupation and violates international law. It reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to the unity and sovereignty of Syria, rejecting any measures that alter the legal status of the Golan Heights.

The Golan Heights is home to approximately 24,000 Druze, an Arab minority that predominantly identifies as Syrian and practices an offshoot of Islam.