#National News

APP–Sobeyaa warns of Middle East conflict’s impact on Gambia

Mar 6, 2026, 12:16 PM

The All People’s Party Sobeyaa (APP–Sobeyaa) has issued a public statement expressing deep concern over escalating violence in the Middle East and warning of its potential social and economic repercussions for The Gambia.

Highlighting the ongoing hostilities involving the United States, Israel, Iran, Gulf States, and Hamas, APP–Sobeyaa condemned attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, stressing that wars disproportionately affect ordinary people and violate international law. “In every war, civilians bear the brunt of the violence,” the party noted, urging all parties to uphold the principles of the Geneva Conventions.

The statement also underscored the economic consequences of the conflict. With rising oil prices driving up transportation costs, electricity bills, and the price of basic goods, the party warned that Gambian households could face mounting financial pressure. APP–Sobeyaa called on the Government of The Gambia to strengthen national reserves, engage international partners, and communicate openly with citizens to mitigate these impacts.

Equally, the party cautioned against misinterpreting the Middle East conflict as a religious struggle, emphasising that it is a geopolitical dispute shaped by strategic interests and historical grievances. APP–Sobeyaa urged Gambians to reject divisive narratives that could import religious or sectarian tensions into the country, stressing that the nation’s harmony between Muslims, Christians, and other faiths must be preserved.

Secretary General and Party Leader Essa Mbaye Faal emphasised that steady leadership and a commitment to peace, national unity, and economic resilience are critical at this time. The party reaffirmed its readiness to work constructively with the government and communities to safeguard social cohesion and protect citizens from economic shocks.

APP–Sobeyaa concluded by calling for diplomacy and de-escalation in the Middle East, stressing that peace abroad is inseparable from stability and security at home. The party reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that The Gambia remains a model of coexistence in West Africa.