Jakarta, Jan. 3 -- Indonesia, along with several Arab and Islamic countries, has urged Israel to grant unhindered access for the United Nations (UN) and international non-governmental organizations (NGO) to assist Palestinian civilians.

In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of Indonesia, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt called on Israel to ensure that the UN and humanitarian NGOs can operate without restriction in Gaza, citing their vital role in humanitarian operations.

"Any attempt to impede their ability to operate is unacceptable," the joint statement said, as published by Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on social media on Friday.

The foreign ministers commended the co...