African Union chair says ‘extermination’ of Palestinians must stop
Al Jazeera
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
At the 39th African Union (AU) summit, Chairman of the AU Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf issued a strong call for an end to what he described as the "extermination" of the Palestinian people. Speaking during the opening session, Youssouf emphasized the urgent need to address the ongoing rights violations and injustices faced by Palestinians, urging the international community to take action. His remarks underscored the AU's commitment to solidarity with Palestinian liberation efforts and highlighted the organization's growing role in mediating conflicts in the Middle East.
The summit, held on February 14, 2026, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, marks a significant moment in AU history as it focuses on fostering unity and collaboration among member states. Youssouf's statement reflects the AU's broader stance on human rights and justice, aligning with its mandate to promote peace and development across Africa. His address also signals an increasing willingness by African leaders to engage directly with Middle East tensions, despite the region's complex geopolitical dynamics.
The Palestinian issue has long been a contentious topic in international diplomacy, with debates often centered on territorial rights, self-determination, and humanitarian concerns. Youssouf's use of the term "extermination" underscores the gravity of the situation and calls for immediate global attention. While some may argue that the language is extreme, it reflects the severity of ongoing conflicts and human rights abuses faced by Palestinians.
The AU's intervention highlights the organization's growing influence in global affairs. By addressing the Palestinian crisis, Youssouf aims to leverage the AU's platform to amplify Palestinian voices and push for a more equitable resolution to decades-long tensions. This approach not
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/14/2026