Estonia: Statement at the 80th UNGA General Debate (Excerpts on the Question of Palestine)

Address by

the President of the Republic of Estonia Alar Karis

at the 80th United Nations General Assembly

24 September 2025

/…

Ladies and gentlemen,

The international law based multilateral system has also failed to protect Palestinians and Israelis. Having visited both Israel and Palestine this year, I witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of this long-lasting conflict. Hamas’ brutal terrorist attacks on 7 October have been condemned by the whole world. Hamas cannot have any role in the future governance of Gaza and Palestine. It has to be guaranteed that the horrors of terrorism would never be repeated.

However, ordinary people and children in Gaza must not be the ones to pay the price. I am devastated that so many innocent lives, including children’s lives have been lost due to military action, starvation and the spread of disease. The promise of international humanitarian law was to ensure that people do not suffer during armed conflict. And yet, what has unfolded in Gaza has crossed all red lines.

Estonia has supported all efforts for a ceasefire that would end the killing, destruction of lives, and bring all the hostages home. In order to alleviate the unbearable humanitarian situation, Israel must fully respect international humanitarian law and implement its commitments regarding access and delivery of humanitarian aid and security of aid workers.

In order to truly end the cycle of violence, we need a comprehensive political process with the end goal of two states – Israel and Palestine – living side by side in peace and security. I commend the efforts of France and Saudi Arabia to step up international action to implement the two-state solution.

/…