OIC Assistant Secretary-General Meets New IPHRC Executive Director, Reaffirms Support for Palestinian Cause

Amb. Samir Bakr, the Assistant Secretary-General for Palestine and Al-Quds Affairs of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), met today, October 13, 2025, at the OIC General Secretariat headquarters with Dr Hadi bin Ali Al-Yami, the newly appointed Executive Director of the OIC Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission (IPHRC).

During the meeting, Dr Al-Yami underscored the critical significance of the Palestine and Al-Quds agenda within the Commission's mandate since its establishment. He elaborated on the IPHRC’s comprehensive role in documenting human rights violations perpetrated by Israel, the occupying power, asserting its position as the OIC's principal human rights entity. Moreover, he shared his vision for the Commission's strategic direction moving forward, indicating an intent to bolster collaborations with the OIC, the Member States, and regional and international human rights entities. This collaboration aims to implement the Commission's strategic plan in line with the priorities and aspirations of relevant Member States.

In response, Amb. Bakr extended a warm welcome to Dr Al-Yami, expressing confidence in his capabilities and wishing him success in his new role. He reiterated the OIC's recognition of the Commission's vital contributions, particularly emphasising the importance of its expert personnel in advocating for the Palestinian cause. Bakr affirmed the OIC's commitment to enhancing cooperative efforts across the Commission's activities and events, reinforcing a joint approach to addressing ongoing human rights challenges.