AU Chair Condemns Escalating Violence, Calls for Global Action
African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf issued a stark appeal during the opening of the AU's 39th summit on February 15, 2026, declaring that the 'extermination' of Palestinians must cease. 'In the Middle East, Palestine and the suffering of its people also challenge our consciences,' Youssouf emphasized, urging international intervention to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The densely populated coastal enclave, under Israeli siege since the war began in October 2023, has seen over 71,667 Palestinian fatalities according to Gaza's health ministry. The conflict, triggered by Hamas's attack that claimed 1,221 Israeli lives, remains a flashpoint in regional stability.
Africa's Multifaceted Conflicts Take Center Stage
Youssouf also spotlighted crises across Africa, noting that 'from Sudan to the Sahel, to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, in Somalia and elsewhere, our people continue to pay the heavy price of instability.' The two-day summit, convening leaders from all 55 AU member states, aims to address these challenges while reinforcing continental unity.
As the summit concludes on February 16, observers anticipate renewed commitments to conflict resolution mechanisms and humanitarian aid frameworks.
