{"id":295309,"date":"2024-04-18T17:12:04","date_gmt":"2024-04-18T21:12:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/?post_type=document&p=295309"},"modified":"2024-06-12T16:09:53","modified_gmt":"2024-06-12T20:09:53","slug":"bloody-cycle-of-retaliation-must-end-secretary-general-tells-security-council-urging-stop-to-hostilities-in-gaza-dgc-press-release","status":"publish","type":"document","link":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/bloody-cycle-of-retaliation-must-end-secretary-general-tells-security-council-urging-stop-to-hostilities-in-gaza-dgc-press-release\/","title":{"rendered":"Bloody Cycle of Retaliation Must End, Secretary-General Tells Security Council, Urging Stop to Hostilities in Gaza – Security Council 9608th Meeting Press Release"},"content":{"rendered":"
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9608TH MEETING (AM & PM)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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SC\/15669<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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18 April 2024<\/div>\n
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Meetings records<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Urging maximum restraint following recent escalations in the Middle East, the Head of the United Nations urged an end to the deadly cycle of retaliation and called on the international community to work together to avert a full-scale regional conflict, first by ending hostilities in Gaza and ultimately by realizing the two-State solution, as the Security Council today convened its quarterly open debate on the situation in the region.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis moment of maximum peril must be a time for maximum restraint,\u201d urged United Nations Secretary-General Ant\u00f3nio Guterres.\u00a0Reiterating his strong condemnation of the serious escalation posed by Iran\u2019s large-scale attack on Israel on 13\u00a0April, as well as his condemnation of the attack on Tehran\u2019s consulate in Damascus earlier this month, he said: \u00a0\u201cIt is high time to end the bloody cycle of retaliation.\u201d<\/p>\n

The international community must work together to pull the region back from the precipice by advancing comprehensive diplomatic action for regional de-escalation, starting with Gaza, he said, emphasizing that ending the hostilities there would significantly defuse tensions across the region.\u00a0 Detailing limited progress and ongoing challenges despite Israel\u2019s recent commitments to improve aid delivery, he said Palestinians are facing widespread starvation and Israel must fully and actively facilitate humanitarian operations immediately.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe ultimate goal remains a two-State solution,\u201d he said, stressing: \u00a0\u201cThe international community has a responsibility and a moral obligation to help make this happen.\u201d \u00a0Spotlighting other conflicts in the region, including in the occupied West Bank, Lebanon and the Red Sea, he said: \u00a0\u201cWe have a shared moral obligation to advance a comprehensive Middle East de-escalation effort, in order to reduce risks, increase stability, and pave the way towards peace and prosperity for the countries and people of the region and beyond.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ziad Abu Amr, Special Representative of the President for the State of Palestine, said that since 1988, the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) \u2014 \u201cthe only legitimate representative of the Palestinian people\u201d \u2014 has made every possible effort to achieve peace based on the two-State solution.\u00a0\u201cToday, we are asking for full membership for the State of Palestine in the United Nations \u2014 but this does not mean we forget what is happening in the Gaza Strip,\u201d he added.\u00a0 The Council must compel Israel to end its aggression, allow aid to be delivered to a starving people, immediately withdraw from Gaza and comply with international law. \u00a0\u201cWe rely on peace-loving nations to end this war,\u201d he urged.<\/p>\n

Israel\u2019s representative, countering that assertion, said the Palestinians have rejected every peace plan ever proposed. \u00a0Noting the Council\u2019s imminent vote on a resolution to recommend granting the Palestinian Authority a full membership status \u2014 a Palestinian State \u2014 he said that if the draft passes, this organ should be known as \u201cthe Terror Council\u201d. \u00a0Moreover, instead of sanctioning Iran\u2019s \u201cevil regime\u201d, which launched an unprecedented attack on his country less than a week ago, the Council opens its door for Iran\u2019s Foreign Minister. \u00a0The UN is committed to \u201cmulti-terrorism\u201d rather than multilateralism, and, in its current form, \u201chas no future\u201d, he said, citing today\u2019s meeting as \u201cthe catalyst of the UN\u2019s collapse\u201d.<\/p>\n

In the ensuing debate, which featured 40 speakers, including ministers and other high-level representatives, and which will resume next week, delegates voiced alarm about the threat of a regional war following Iran\u2019s recent attack on Israel and urged strict compliance with Council resolution 2728 (2024), which demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the immediate and unconditional release of hostages and the urgent need to expand the flow of aid into Gaza.<\/p>\n

Ian Borg, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta, Council President for April, speaking in his national capacity, called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, stating that it is \u201ccompletely unacceptable\u201d that the parties disregarded the 15-member organ\u2019s ceasefire demand in resolution 2728 (2024).<\/p>\n

Several speakers, including Renata Cvelbar Bek, Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovenia, echoed the Secretary-General and underscored that a Gaza ceasefire is key to reducing \u201cthe boiling tensions\u201d in the region, including along the Blue Line, in the Red Sea and elsewhere. \u00a0She urged all regional actors and their partners to exercise maximum restraint, stressing that: \u00a0\u201cDiplomacy is the only way forward.\u201d<\/p>\n

Uemura Tsukasa, Special Envoy of Japan for the Middle East Peace, was among speakers who voiced concern about the prospect of further escalation into Rafah.\u00a0 A full-scale military operation in Rafah would bring about a disastrous outcome, he warned.\u00a0 \u201cTo end the current tragedy and achieve lasting peace and stability in the Middle East, there is no solution other than peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine,\u201d he underscored.<\/p>\n

On that note, Ahmed Attaf, Minister for Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad of Algeria, said the failure to implement the \u201chistoric and legitimate right\u201d of the Palestinian people to create an independent State is the main cause of this prolonged conflict.\u00a0 \u201cThe Council has a historic and decisive responsibility to act immediately to impose the two-State solution,\u201d he stressed. \u00a0Moreover, granting Palestine full membership in the United Nations will consolidate the two-State solution and build the peace process on solid foundations \u2014 a point echoed by other delegations.<\/p>\n

However, the United Kingdom\u2019s representative, reiterating her country\u2019s commitment to a sovereign, viable Palestinian State, stressed that \u201crecognition cannot come at the start of the process, but it does not have to be the very end of the process\u201d.\u00a0 While \u201cLondon will recognize a Palestinian State at a time that is most conducive to the peace process,\u201d she underscored that \u201cthat pathway must start with fixing the immediate crisis in Gaza\u201d.<\/p>\n

Mauro Vieira, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Brazil, urging the Council to assess the State of Palestine\u2019s request for UN membership \u201cfor its main merit \u2014 to redress, by peaceful means, a historical injustice\u201d, pointed out that various UN decisions outlawing occupation and annexation have laid the normative basis for the consolidation of the State of Palestine\u2019s territorial sovereignty.\u00a0 \u201cWe should now discuss ways to ensure the implementation of such norms,\u201d he urged.<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, the representative of the United States, calling for united condemnation of Iran\u2019s \u201creckless escalatory acts\u201d, said Tehran\u2019s long-standing support to Hamas continues to contribute to the crisis in Gaza and is the \u201csole obstacle to a ceasefire\u201d. \u00a0Hossein Amir-abdollahian, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iran, however, pointing to Israel\u2019s attack on Tehran\u2019s consulate in Damascus, said his country\u2019s only option was to attack Israel, on 13\u00a0April, under its right to self-defence under international law, but it did not target civilians or civilian areas.<\/p>\n

China\u2019s representative proposed to convene an international peace conference to develop a timeline and road map for the realization of the two-State solution. \u00a0Likewise, Jos\u00e9 Manuel Albares, Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of Spain, said his country has proposed the convening of an international peace conference \u2014 supported by the European Union, the League of Arab States (LAS) and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), as well as 80 countries \u2014 to advance the achievement of a two-State solution.<\/p>\n

Among delegations who drew attention to the dire humanitarian situation facing Palestinians was the representative of France, who said all impediments to the delivery of humanitarian aid must be lifted and Israel must open and facilitate the use of all crossings for such deliveries.\u00a0Reiterating her country\u2019s solidarity with Israel, she urged the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.\u00a0 An end to the illegal settlements under international law and the cycle of violence in the West Bank is equally necessary, she pointed out, calling on Israeli authorities to ensure the protection of all civilians under the country\u2019s international law obligations.<\/p>\n

Ayman Safadi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Jordan, echoing the Secretary-General, said de-escalation must begin with an end to the aggression in Gaza and an end to the worsening humanitarian crisis. \u00a0Moreover, the international community must launch immediate international actions that put the region on the path to implementing the two-State solution, with a specific timeframe and binding implementation guarantees, he stressed.<\/p>\n

Putting a face to the innocent caught in war, he recounted the story of Mohammed, who although deprived of his school and displaced to Rafah, attends a lesson in a refugee camp with peers who insist on learning.\u00a0\u201cMohammed says he doesn\u2019t want war.\u00a0Instead, he wants a future; he wants life and dignity,\u201d he emphasized.<\/p>\n

THE SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST, INCLUDING THE PALESTINIAN QUESTION<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Briefing<\/u><\/p>\n

ANT\u00d3NIO GUTERRES,\u00a0Secretary-General of the United Nations<\/u>, warned: \u00a0\u201cThe Middle East is on a precipice,\u201d pointing to the recent days\u2019 \u201cperilous escalation \u2014 in words and deeds\u201d and the threat of a full-scale regional conflict that would be devastating for all involved and for the rest of the world.\u00a0 \u201cThis moment of maximum peril must be a time for maximum restraint,\u201d he urged.\u00a0Reiterating his \u201cstrong condemnation of the serious escalation\u201d represented by Iran\u2019s large-scale attack on Israel on 13\u00a0April, as well as his condemnation of the attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus earlier this month, he said: \u00a0\u201cIt is high time to end the bloody cycle of retaliation.\u201d\u00a0The international community must work together to pull the region back from the precipice by advancing comprehensive diplomatic action for regional de-escalation, starting with Gaza.\u00a0 \u201cEnding the hostilities in Gaza would significantly defuse tensions across the region,\u201d he emphasized.<\/p>\n

In the horrific terror attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups on 7\u00a0October, and the seven months of Israeli military operations in Gaza, tens of thousands of people have been killed, he said.\u00a0 Two million Palestinians \u2014 including over 13,900 children \u2014 have endured death, destruction and the denial of lifesaving humanitarian aid.\u00a0 \u201cAll this has happened with severe limitations imposed by the Israeli authorities on the delivery of humanitarian aid to people in Gaza, who are facing widespread starvation,\u201d he pointed out, citing limited progress and ongoing challenges despite Israel\u2019s recent commitments to improve aid delivery.\u00a0 For example, Israeli authorities\u2019 clearances of more aid convoys are often granted when it is too late in the day to make deliveries and return safely, he said, stressing: \u00a0\u201cOur personnel cannot operate in darkness in a war zone littered with unexploded ordnance.\u201d<\/p>\n

From 6-12 April, Israel denied more than 40\u00a0per\u00a0cent of UN requests that required passing through Israeli checkpoints, he continued.\u00a0 Humanitarian agencies, led by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), must be able to move food and other supplies safely and via all possible routes and crossings into and throughout Gaza.\u00a0 Israel must fully and actively facilitate humanitarian operations immediately, including through a functioning humanitarian notification system \u2014 and improved and direct communications between humanitarians and military decision makers on the ground. \u00a0\u201cFor the moment, our aid operations face enormous difficulties and are barely functional,\u201d he said.\u00a0 The international community has a shared responsibility to do everything possible to ensure an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza; the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages; and the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid.<\/p>\n

A comprehensive de-escalation approach must also reverse the explosive situation in the occupied West Bank, he said, urging Israel to take immediate steps to end the unprecedented levels of settler violence and to hold the perpetrators accountable.\u00a0 He also called on Israel, as the occupying Power, to protect the Palestinian population against attacks, violence and intimidation.\u00a0 Tel Aviv, together with the international community, must support and work with the new Palestinian Government to address its fiscal challenges, strengthen its governance capacity, and prepare it to reassume its responsibilities in Gaza.\u00a0 Moreover, all actors must recognize the critical role the Palestinian Authority should play in Gaza and work toward enabling its return in the appropriate time.\u00a0\u201cThe ultimate goal remains a two-State solution\u2026\u201d including establishment of a fully independent Palestinian State, with Gaza as an integral part, he said, stressing: \u00a0\u201cThe international community has a responsibility and a moral obligation to help make this happen.\u201d<\/p>\n

Turning to other conflicts in the Middle East, he said regional de-escalation efforts must also address the extremely fraught situation in Lebanon, particularly along the Blue Line, and ensure the safety of navigation on the Red Sea.\u00a0 Armed confrontations on that crucial waterway increase risks to supply chains, environmental disaster or a confrontation between major Powers. \u00a0The international community must act together to prevent escalation in the Red Sea and to support the people of Yemen towards a political process for a sustainable, just peace.\u00a0 Warning that failure to make progress towards a two-State solution will only increase volatility and risk for hundreds of millions of people, he urged every Government to use its influence and leverage to that end.\u00a0 \u201cWe have a shared moral obligation to advance a comprehensive Middle East de-escalation effort, in order to reduce risks, increase stability, and pave the way towards peace and prosperity for the countries and people of the region and beyond,\u201d he concluded.<\/p>\n

Statements<\/u><\/p>\n

ZIAD ABU AMR,\u00a0Special Representative of the President for the State of Palestine<\/u>, emphasized that the Palestinian people are \u201cvictims of a history not of their making\u201d.\u00a0 However, since 1988, the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) \u2014 \u201cthe only legitimate representative of the Palestinian people\u201d, he noted \u2014 has shown readiness to close the chapter of conflict and sit at the negotiating table to find a just, comprehensive and permanent solution for the Palestinian question.\u00a0It has made every possible effort, along with unimaginable historic concessions, to achieve peace based on the two-State solution and resolve the issue of refugees pursuant to General Assembly resolution\u00a0194.\u00a0 Granting Palestine full UN membership will lift \u201csome\u201d of the historic injustice to which succeeding Palestinian generations have been subjected, he said, asking how such a grant would damage the prospects of peace between Palestine and Israel.<\/p>\n

Addressing those who say recognition of a Palestinian State must occur through negotiation and not through a UN resolution, he spotlighted the establishment and recognition of Israel through General Assembly resolution\u00a0181 of 1947.\u00a0 Those who are trying to hinder the adoption of such a resolution \u201care not helping the prospects for peace\u201d, he stressed, adding that its adoption would grant Palestinians the hope for a decent life that \u201chas dissipated over past years because of the intransigence of the Israeli Government\u201d.\u00a0 Recalling the constructive role the State of Palestine has played after being granted observer status in the General Assembly, he said:\u00a0 \u201cToday, we are asking for full membership for the State of Palestine in the United Nations \u2014 but this does not mean we forget what is happening in the Gaza Strip.\u201d\u00a0 He therefore called on the Council to compel Israel to end its aggression, allow aid to be delivered to a starving people, immediately withdraw from Gaza and comply with international law.\u00a0 \u201cWe rely on peace-loving nations to end this war,\u201d he urged.<\/p>\n

The representative of\u00a0Israel<\/u>\u00a0said that, rather than condemning Hamas\u2019 atrocities or taking real action to facilitate the return of hostages, the Council will be voting on a resolution to recommend granting the Palestinian Authority a full membership status \u2014 a Palestinian State.\u00a0 \u201cHow detached from reality can this [organ] be to dedicate its time and resources to support a resolution so disconnected from the reality on the ground?\u201d he asked.\u00a0 Six months after the most brutal massacre of Jews since the Holocaust, the Council seeks to reward its perpetrators with Statehood.\u00a0 However, as the Palestinian Authority \u2014 \u201cpaying monthly salaries to all the terrorists that took part in the attacks\u201d \u2014 has zero control over Gaza, \u201cwho is going to be in charge?\u201d he asked.\u00a0 Emphasizing that this \u201cgenocide-loving entity\u201d deserves no status here, he said that, if the draft passes, this organ should be known as \u201cthe Terror Council\u201d.<\/p>\n

The Palestinians have rejected every peace plan ever proposed and their rejection pays off, he observed, noting that the UN is committed to \u201cmulti-terrorism\u201d rather than multilateralism.\u00a0 On Iran, which \u201cexposed itself as the terrorist State that it is\u201d, he said that \u2014 precisely 41 years since its 18\u00a0April 1983 attack on the United States Embassy in Beirut \u2014 this Council will be addressed by its terrorists.\u00a0 Tehran has provided weaponry to Hizbullah to rain down missiles on Israeli cities and launched an unprecedented attack on that country less than a week ago.\u00a0Instead of sanctioning Iran\u2019s \u201cevil regime\u201d, the Council opens its door for Iran\u2019s Foreign Minister \u2014 \u201cto show that his country can launch an attack on another Member State on Saturday and come here on Thursday to lecture others on human rights and international law\u201d.\u00a0Noting that \u201cthe UN has lost every ounce of justice\u201d, he stated: \u00a0\u201cYour eyes will remain in Gaza as the rest of the world burns\u201d.\u00a0 In its current form, the UN \u201chas no future,\u201d he asserted, citing today\u2019s meeting as \u201cthe catalyst of the UN\u2019s collapse\u201d.<\/p>\n

IAN BORG,\u00a0Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta<\/u>, Council President for April, speaking in his national capacity, calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, said it is \u201ccompletely unacceptable\u201d that the parties disregarded the Council\u2019s ceasefire demand in resolution 2728 (2024).\u00a0 The prospect of further escalation into Rafah is \u201cunconscionable\u201d and poses further displacement.\u00a0 He underscored that international law and the International Court of Justice\u2019s provisional orders on 26\u00a0January and 28\u00a0March must be complied with. \u00a0He called for an independent investigation into all killings of UN and humanitarian staff and for commercial trade to resume as the people of Gaza cannot remain dependent on aid alone.\u00a0 There must be prevention of regional conflagration, reversal of illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank, and a revitalization of the Palestinian Authority.\u00a0 \u201cA just resolution\u201d will provide for Palestinians\u2019 \u201clegitimate aspirations\u201d for UN membership and Statehood, and that Israelis live in security.<\/p>\n

AHMED ATTAF,\u00a0Minister for Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad of Algeria<\/u>, stressed the failure to implement the \u201chistoric and legitimate right\u201d of the Palestinian people to create an independent State \u2014 recognized by the international community 76 years ago \u2014 is the main cause of this prolonged conflict. \u00a0He deplored Israel\u2019s attempt to eradicate the foundations of the Palestinian State and destroy its pillars through its \u201cgenocidal war\u201d in Gaza and the \u201csuffocation\u201d of the West Bank through settlement policies and forced displacement.\u00a0 The Israeli occupation continues to escalate the situation in the region in an effort to extinguish the Palestinian cause.\u00a0 He recalled that a few months ago the Israeli authorities showed a map in the Council, where Palestine did not exist.\u00a0 This demonstrates \u201cthe true face of the Israeli occupation made of colonization, spreading of illusions and undermining the security of the Middle East\u201d, he said, adding:\u00a0 \u201cThe Council has a historic and decisive responsibility to act immediately to impose the two-State solution, which is facing the imminent mortal danger\u201d.<\/p>\n

Citing Algeria\u2019s historical support for Palestine, he called for granting it full membership within the Organization. \u00a0Doing so will consolidate the two-State solution, safeguard the future Palestinian State, and build the peace process on solid foundations. \u00a0\u201cThis is our legal duty, a political duty and a security duty, [\u2026] a duty at the scale of humanity and civilization,\u201d he stated.<\/p>\n

RENATA CVELBAR BEK,\u00a0Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovenia<\/u>, said that the situation in Gaza and the West Bank is \u201cwhere the master key to easing tensions in the region is\u201d, calling for immediate and full compliance with the Council resolutions and International Court of Justice orders related to the conflict in Gaza. \u00a0The threat of the military offensive in Rafah remains.\u00a0In recent days, the situation in the West Bank has been escalating.\u00a0 \u201cThese are the fires that we have to extinguish before they engulf the whole region,\u201d she said, underscoring that a Gaza ceasefire is key to reducing \u201cthe boiling tensions\u201d in the region, including along the Blue Line, in the Red Sea and elsewhere.<\/p>\n

Urging all regional actors and their partners to exercise maximum restraint, she stressed that missiles and drones would not address the root causes of the crisis.\u00a0 \u201cThey are not solutions, just as retaliations are not dialogue,\u201d she said, declaring:\u00a0 \u201cDiplomacy is the only way forward.\u201d\u00a0 She went on to emphasize the need to start and support the political process towards a two-State solution.\u00a0 The Council must do its part.\u00a0 In that regard, she welcomed the draft resolution proposed by France. \u00a0The two-State formula must be based on the sovereign equality of States.\u00a0 Her country supports their equal status in the United Nations.\u00a0 People in Palestine, Israel and the whole Middle East are not asking for the impossible. \u00a0They want peace and security and a viable vision of a better, dignified future. \u00a0\u201cLet us all do everything in our power to make this happen,\u201d she urged.<\/p>\n

UEMURA TSUKASA,\u00a0Special Envoy of Japan for the Middle East Peace<\/u>, said the Council must foster and encourage the serious efforts outside the Council chamber of countries concerned to achieve the release of the hostages and a ceasefire, warning that a full-scale military operation in Rafah would bring about a disastrous outcome.\u00a0 He strongly condemned the escalation posed by Iran\u2019s attack against Israel and reiterated his country\u2019s determination to continue to make all necessary diplomatic efforts to prevent any further deterioration.\u00a0 \u201cTo end the current tragedy and achieve lasting peace and stability in the Middle East, there is no solution other than peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine,\u201d he underscored.\u00a0 His country will continue to contribute to the realization of a two-State solution through its own initiatives and efforts and will remain an \u201cescort runner\u201d for Palestine, Israel and all the people living in the Middle East, in good times and bad, he said.<\/p>\n

The representative of the\u00a0Russian Federation<\/u>, recalling the adoption of resolution 2728 (2024) and its demand for a ceasefire, said that, to get there, his delegation and that of China had to veto a draft resolution submitted by the United States \u2014 \u201cthe purpose of which was specifically to ensure that there was no ceasefire\u201d.\u00a0 He also recalled that, as early as 16\u00a0October, the Russian Federation authored a draft on a ceasefire in Gaza, which received negative votes from the delegations of France, the United States, the United Kingdom and Japan.\u00a0 On 18\u00a0October, a text drafted by Brazil was vetoed by the United States despite its condemnation of Hamas.\u00a0 \u201cJust imagine how many lives we could have saved if these proposals had received support,\u201d he said, underscoring that every United States veto cast on Gaza \u201ccomes with a specific, frightful price\u201d \u2014 the lives of those in Gaza.\u00a0 He added that, if its resolutions are not implemented, the Council has the right to impose sanctions on those who violate and sabotage its decisions.<\/p>\n

The representative of the\u00a0United Kingdom<\/u>\u00a0condemned Iran\u2019s unprecedented attack against Israel, as well as its violation of Jordan and Iraq\u2019s airspace.\u00a0 Calling for de-escalation, she said Iran\u2019s actions \u201cdo nothing to advance the prospects for peace in Israel and Gaza\u201d.\u00a0 London remains committed to urgently securing an immediate pause to get aid in and hostages out, then progress towards a permanent, sustainable ceasefire without a return to fighting and loss of life.\u00a0 On the devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, she said:\u00a0 \u201cGazans need more aid, and they need it now.\u201d\u00a0Accordingly, she welcomed Israel\u2019s commitments to fully open Ashdod port and the Erez checkpoint and to increase capacity through the Jordan land corridor.\u00a0 Reiterating her country\u2019s commitment to a sovereign, viable Palestinian State, she stressed that \u201crecognition cannot come at the start of the process, but it does not have to be the very end of the process\u201d.\u00a0 While \u201cLondon will recognize a Palestinian State at a time that is most conducive to the peace process,\u201d she underscored that \u201cthat pathway must start with fixing the immediate crisis in Gaza\u201d.<\/p>\n

TIMOTHY MUSA KABBA,\u00a0Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Sierra Leone<\/u>, expressed support for the admission of the State of Palestine to the UN, noting it potentially provides a pathway to a political horizon, based on the two-State solution.\u00a0 On the latest conflict, he called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and for parties to fully respect resolutions 2712 (2023), 2720 (2023) and 2728 (2024).\u00a0 \u201cThe killings, suffering and collective punishment must stop,\u201d and there must be accountability for all violations of international law.\u00a0 He expressed concern about tensions in the occupied West Bank, in Lebanon and with the exchange of rockets and other attacks, which may cause a regional conflict.\u00a0 He underscored that the Council should consider the implementation of resolutions 2712 (2023), 2720 (2023) and 2728 (2024).<\/p>\n

The representative of\u00a0China<\/u>, noting the precarious situation on the ground, said that the Council must demonstrate \u201cfirm determination and make the right choice by taking vigorous action\u201d. \u00a0An immediate ceasefire must be promoted with the utmost urgency, he stressed.\u00a0 The continuation of fighting will result in more casualties and pull the whole region into an \u201ceven greater Holocaust\u201d, he warned, calling on Israel to implement resolution 2728 (2024) and urging \u201ccountries with influence on the parties to take an impartial stand and promote a ceasefire\u201d.\u00a0 The fundamental way out for the Middle East lies in the two-State solution, he said, proposing to convene an international peace conference to develop a timeline and road map for its realization.\u00a0 Highlighting the historical injustice inflicted upon the Palestinian people, he pleaded with the Council to cast a favourable vote to \u201csupport Palestine to join the United Nations family\u201d.<\/p>\n

The representative of\u00a0Ecuador<\/u>\u00a0said that today\u2019s debate comes half a year after an unprecedented explosion of violence that has caused death and pain to the people of Israel and Palestine.\u00a0Condemning Hamas terrorist attacks on 7\u00a0October\u00a02023, he demanded the immediate release of all hostages without any conditions.\u00a0 It cannot be forgotten that each number of deaths and injuries \u201crepresents a human being, as worthy as those of us in this chamber\u201d.\u00a0 The full implementation of all Council resolutions is necessary to alleviate the hardships faced by the civilian population in Gaza.\u00a0 A humanitarian ceasefire is essential, as demanded by Council resolution 2728 (2024).\u00a0 The recent events underscore the need to fully implement Council resolution 2334 (2016), he said, stressing that \u201cviolence will not solve the Palestinian question\u201d.\u00a0 The nearly eight decades of conflict, thousands of deaths and the suffering of whole generations attest to that, he said, expressing his country\u2019s commitment to working towards a two-State solution.<\/p>\n

c<\/p>\n

The representative of the\u00a0United States<\/u>\u00a0called for united condemnation of Iran\u2019s \u201creckless escalatory acts\u201d.\u00a0 For its part, the United States announced sanctions this morning against several actors involved in Iran\u2019s unmanned-aerial-vehicle programme; suppliers and customers of one of Iran\u2019s largest steel producers; and Iranian automobile companies with connections to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.\u00a0 The Council, meanwhile, must not let Iran\u2019s actions go unanswered, as that State has armed Hizbullah in violation of resolution 1701 (2006), facilitated Houthi attacks in violation of resolutions 2216 (2015) and 2722 (2024) and transferred attack drones in violation of resolution 2231 (2015).\u00a0 Further, Iran\u2019s long-standing support to Hamas continues to contribute to the crisis in Gaza, and he underscored:\u00a0 \u201cHamas is the sole obstacle to a ceasefire.\u201d\u00a0 While the world watches to see what Hamas does now, Israel must do more to prevent civilian casualties.\u00a0 He also stressed that \u201cno country has worked harder than the United States to improve prospects for peace in the region\u201d, adding:\u00a0 \u201cRussia, frankly, has done nothing.\u201d<\/p>\n

The representative of\u00a0Mozambique<\/u>\u00a0called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, releasing all hostages and ensuring delivery of humanitarian assistance.\u00a0 Further, efforts are needed to stop violence in the occupied West Bank, de-escalate tensions along the Blue Line and re-establish safe navigation in the Red Sea.\u00a0Despite the adoption of resolution 2728 (2024), the conflict continues unabated in Gaza, he observed, urging Israel to comply with relevant Council resolutions and International Court of Justice decisions on the matter. \u00a0Recognizing the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, political independence and sovereignty, he advocated for a two-State solution \u2014 two separate independent and sovereign States, Israel and Palestine, both members of the United Nations, living side by side in peace and security, as prescribed by the Charter.<\/p>\n

The representative of\u00a0Guyana<\/u>\u00a0said the injustice Palestinians face is unaddressed due to lacking accountability for non-compliance with Council and UN bodies\u2019 decisions.\u00a0 The Council needs a new approach, she said.\u00a0 Since 7\u00a0October, there has been a \u201cdeliberate strategy of collective punishment of the worst kind\u201d inflicted on Palestinians.\u00a0 \u201cIt must stop.\u201d\u00a0 She called for the occupying Power to abide by international law and implement the International Court of Justice\u2019s orders on 26\u00a0January and 28\u00a0March.\u00a0 The latest conflict is a symptom of the failure to address the core issue of a two-State solution.\u00a0 She noted a \u201cperverse paradox\u201d in which the State of Palestine, facing such horrors, believes in and seeks membership to the UN, while Israel, a full member of the UN, is relentless in denigrating and denouncing it.\u00a0 \u201cGuyana will not let such perverse paradox derail our support for Palestine as a UN member.\u201d\u00a0 Palestinian Statehood must be delivered, with admission to the UN a necessary step.<\/p>\n

The representative of the\u00a0Republic of Korea<\/u>, expressing concern about the absence of any clear signs of an end to the evolving tragedy in Gaza, underscored the need for the \u201cstrong will of the international community to end this conflict\u201d. \u00a0The direct cause of the current situation was the 7\u00a0October terrorist attacks by Hamas against Israeli citizens, he said, stressing that terrorist attacks against innocent civilians cannot be justified and must be condemned. \u00a0\u201cFor a permanent peace in the Middle East, the two-State solution is not an option, but a necessity,\u201d he said, urging for an immediate ceasefire to resume dialogue between the two sides.\u00a0 Settlement activities \u2014 a major obstacle to achieving a two-State solution \u2014 must completely cease\u00a0\u201cThe two-State solution is beneficial not only for Palestinians but also for Israelis, and both peoples rightfully deserve the right live in peace, security, and dignity,\u201d he concluded.<\/p>\n

The representative of\u00a0Switzerland<\/u>\u00a0unequivocally endorsed the calls for de-escalation, condemning Iran\u2019s coordinated attacks against Israel as well as the Israeli strike against Tehran\u2019s consulate in Damascus on 1\u00a0April.\u00a0 \u201cThe spiral of violence has dangerously been triggered,\u201d she warned, underscoring the need to respect international law as \u201cthe compass\u201d for resolving any dispute.\u00a0 Since the 7\u00a0October Hamas attacks, the Council has adopted three resolutions on Gaza.\u00a0Implementing them is a first step towards peace.\u00a0 The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, already catastrophic, continues to deteriorate.\u00a0As the occupying Power, Israel must meet the basic needs of the population under its control.\u00a0 The Palestinian population in the West Bank is prey to violent acts by Israeli settlers.\u00a0 Only a two-State solution, negotiated by both parties under international law and internationally agreed parameters, can lead to lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians.<\/p>\n

AYMAN SAFADI,\u00a0Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Jordan<\/u>, recounted the story of Mohammed who was displaced from the Nuseirat refugee camp to Rafah where he fetches water and bread, if he finds them, to bring to his family.\u00a0 Although deprived of his school, he attends a lesson in a refugee camp with peers who insist on learning.\u00a0 \u201cMohammed says he doesn\u2019t want war.\u00a0 Instead, he wants a future; he wants life and dignity,\u201d he emphasized, stressing that the Israeli Government must be prevented from escalating further and dragging the West into a regional war, which would distract attention away from Gaza.\u00a0 De-escalation must begin with an end to the aggression in Gaza and an end to the worsening humanitarian crisis, he stressed.\u00a0 His country will not allow anyone, neither Israel nor Iran, to turn it into an arena for conflict, and will protect the security of its citizens.\u00a0The Council must adopt a binding resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza and it must oblige Israel not to invade Rafah.\u00a0He called on all to support the efforts of Egypt, Qatar and United States to reach an exchange deal that would lead to the release of hostages and ensure a ceasefire.\u00a0 The international community must launch immediate international actions that put the region on the path to implementing the two-State solution, with a specific timeframe and binding implementation guarantees, he said.<\/p>\n

MAURO VIEIRA,\u00a0Minister for Foreign Affairs of Brazil<\/u>, said that the Council must prevent the Middle East from plunging into widespread social unrest, political instability and war, stressing:\u00a0 \u201cThe key word here is \u2018de-escalation\u2019.\u201d\u00a0 This requires an immediate end to hostilities in Gaza, the unconditional release of hostages, sustainable humanitarian aid and actions that promote dialogue over further confrontation.\u00a0 Recent escalation serves as a reminder that \u201ca world without rules \u2014 or with rules that we pick and choose \u2014 is a much more dangerous world\u201d, he observed.\u00a0 He also urged the Council to assess the State of Palestine\u2019s request for UN membership \u201cfor its main merit \u2014 to redress, by peaceful means, a historical injustice\u201d.\u00a0Various UN decisions outlawing occupation and annexation have laid the normative basis for the consolidation of the State of Palestine\u2019s territorial sovereignty, he recalled, urging:\u00a0 \u201cWe should now discuss ways to ensure the implementation of such norms.\u201d<\/p>\n

CELINDA SOSA LUNDA,\u00a0Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bolivia<\/u>, said every day, \u201cwith pain and indignation\u201d, the world witnesses the bodies of innocent girls, boys, women and men buried under the rubble, \u201cbodies torn apart without a second thought\u201d by Israel\u2019s weapons and bombs.\u00a0Moreover, it is shamelessly accusing humanitarian organizations and the UN itself of financing terrorism.\u00a0 Israel has decided to ignore the Charter of the United Nations, international law, human rights and international humanitarian law to perpetrate genocide against the Palestinian people, which threatens world peace.\u00a0 Echoing the demand for an immediate ceasefire, she underscored that \u201cthe Palestinians in Gaza cannot continue to be imprisoned within their own territory, without food, without water, without medicine and without the most basic services that a human being requires.\u201d\u00a0 Against this backdrop, she reiterated the Palestinian people\u2019s legitimate right to self-determination and sovereignty. \u00a0Palestine must be established as a free, independent and sovereign State, with pre-1967 borders and East Jerusalem as its capital, she stressed, fully supporting the incorporation of Palestine as a Member State, with full rights, in the United Nations.<\/p>\n

HOSSEIN AMIR-ABDOLLAHIAN,\u00a0Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iran<\/u>, asserted that three Council resolutions and a press statement against Israel\u2019s crimes have yielded \u201cno practical result\u201d.\u00a0 Israel\u2019s attack on Iran\u2019s consulate in Damascus violates the Vienna Conventions, he underlined.\u00a0 He regretted that the Council has taken no action on his country\u2019s repeated requests to prevent further Israeli attacks on Iran\u2019s interests.\u00a0No Member State would remain silent in the face of such a serious attack on its consulate and the killing of its staff.\u00a0He pointed out the White House\u2019s green light granted to Israel for that and other attacks on Iranian interests.\u00a0His country could no longer be patient.\u00a0Its only option was to attack Israel, on 13\u00a0April, under its right to self-defence under international law.\u00a0It did not target civilians or civilian areas, focusing on military bases used to attack its consulate.\u00a0\u201cTherefore, it was completely limited and proportionate in terms of scope and military requirements.\u201d\u00a0 He emphasized that his country\u2019s legitimate defence and countermeasures have been concluded and said Israel must be compelled to stop any further \u201cmilitary adventurism\u201d against Iran\u2019s interests.\u00a0 Tehran \u201cwill not hesitate one bit\u201d to respond to any illegal use of force to make Israel regret its actions.\u00a0 \u201cThis is an unchangeable decision.\u201d\u00a0 The Council must compel Israel to immediately stop the war and genocide in Gaza.\u00a0 Tehran will remain committed to promoting regional peace and stability, as its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps have done previously in Iraq and Syria.\u00a0Iran\u2019s anti-terrorism military advisers will continue \u201cas mightily as ever\u201d efforts to achieve lasting security in the region.\u00a0 He called for a referendum among the original Palestinian residents to establish a Government in the historical land of Palestine.<\/p>\n

JOS\u00c9 MANUEL ALBARES,\u00a0Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of Spain<\/u>, warning of a risk of regional escalation following Iran\u2019s attack on Israel, noted that the political solution to the conflict between Palestine and Israel has no alternative.\u00a0 To ensure irreversible peace in the region, a two-State solution must be irreversible.\u00a0 The way to achieve this is by recognizing Palestine as a full member of the United Nations, he asserted, adding: \u00a0\u201cThe establishment of the Palestinian State alongside the State of Israel is undoubtedly a matter of justice, but it is also the only viable option for peace.\u201d \u00a0Noting that Spain will join 139 countries that have recognized the State of Palestine, he emphasized that \u201csecurity in Israel, peace in the region, are intertwined with the hope for the Palestinian people to have a State\u201d. \u00a0Therefore, Spain has proposed the convening of an international peace conference \u2014 supported by the European Union, the League of Arab States (LAS) and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), as well as 80 countries \u2014 to advance the achievement of a two-State solution. \u00a0Recalling that the first UN peacekeeping mission was deployed in Palestine 76 years ago, he asked: \u00a0\u201cHow much longer we need to wait to solve it?\u201d \u00a0\u201cThe spiral of violence must end,\u201d he stressed, noting that the Palestinian people must have a place in the UN and their own State. \u00a0Likewise, the place and existence of Israel must be recognized by all those who have not yet done so.<\/p>\n

LUIS GILBERTO MURILLO URRUTIA,\u00a0Minister for Foreign Affairs of Colombia<\/u>, stressing that the lack of solution to the Palestinian question cannot be the exception to international law or to the Security Council\u2019s authority, said the 15-member organ must ensure immediate compliance with resolution 2728 (2024).\u00a0 Pointing to the over six months\u2019 incessant violence in the Middle East, he said the end of violence and the solution to the Palestinian question require the recognition and admission of Palestine as a full-fledged member of the United Nations.\u00a0Such recognition is essential to guarantee a solid legal and political framework for the Palestinian people and for peace and stability in the region. \u00a0This conflict can only be resolved once and for all with the two-State solution, he stressed.<\/p>\n

AHMET YILDIZ,\u00a0Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of T\u00fcrkiye<\/u>, underscored that \u201cno country has been given immunity\u201d from international law and asked, in that context, why the Council has not taken action amidst Israel\u2019s \u201cbrazen\u201d violations thereof.\u00a0 Reminding the Council \u2014 \u201cyet again\u201d \u2014 that maintaining international peace and security is its primary task and that it is supposed to be the voice of the international community, he stressed that \u201cwhere the international community stands on this matter is pretty obvious\u201d.\u00a0 Meeting regularly, making the same points repeatedly and leaving-empty handed will not solve the problem.\u00a0 New, decisive steps are needed, he underscored \u2014 \u201cthe full recognition of the State of Palestine is one of them\u201d.\u00a0 Israel has been enjoying Statehood for decades while Palestine is denied its inherent rights, and it is time to \u201cfix this unjust, lop-sided approach\u201d, he said.<\/p>\n

ANDRZEJ SZEJNA,\u00a0Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Poland<\/u>, associating himself with the European Union, condemned Iran\u2019s attacks on Israel, which brought the entire Middle East \u2014 already in turmoil \u2014 to the brink of a full-scale conflict. \u00a0While supporting Israel\u2019s right to self-defence, he underscored that it must take place in full compliance with international law and \u201cnot result in the suffering of innocent civilians or the death of those who come to help them.\u201d\u00a0 Voicing grave concern over Israeli military activities in the vicinity of Rafah, where the civilian population shelters, he supported the UN\u2019s efforts to stabilize the Middle East and deliver humanitarian assistance to the region. \u00a0Full cooperation between regional and global partners is essential to decrease the risk of escalation.\u00a0 Calling for the investigation and accountability from UN partners after the deadly strike on World Central Kitchen volunteers, he noted that one of the fatal victims of the attack was a Polish citizen, Damian Sob\u00f3l.<\/p>\n

The representative of the\u00a0Maldives<\/u>\u00a0expressed his country\u2019s support for the State of Palestine to become a full member of the UN and called on all other UN Member States to do the same.\u00a0 Israel is waging a gruesome and genocidal war against Palestine, he said, noting the Charter requires the Council to take punitive actions against those that violate its resolutions and therefore it should impose sanctions, including an arms embargo on Israel.\u00a0 The starting point for an enduring solution to the situation is granting full UN membership to Palestine.\u00a0 That is the basic ingredient of the \u201ctwo-State solution\u201d.\u00a0He underscored that the Council has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to be on the side of justice and say \u201cyes\u201d to the fundamental rights of Palestinian people, and \u201cno\u201d to Israel\u2019s racism, apartheid and occupation.<\/p>\n

SVEN KOOPMANS,\u00a0European Union High Representative for the Middle East Peace Process<\/u>, in its capacity as observer, called for \u201can immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages, and the full and unhindered provision of humanitarian assistance at scale\u201d. \u00a0Resolution 2728 (2024) and the orders of the International Court of Justice must be implemented immediately. \u00a0Gaza in its entirety needs to return to rule by the Palestinian Authority and be part of the future State of Palestine. \u00a0Also, de-escalating and implementing relevant resolutions is key to avoiding a regional war.<\/p>\n

He called for the convening of an international peace conference, which will \u201creverse-engineer the peace by starting at the end, practically elaborating the day of peace\u201d. \u00a0A ceasefire and a preparatory meeting with those interested in contributing to peace are necessary prerequisites for convening such an event. \u00a0\u201cLet us start to map out our support if and when there is a two-State solution,\u201d he said, emphasizing the need to reaffirm the framework for Israeli-Palestinian peace and to invite both parties separately to express their needs for international support towards that end. \u00a0\u201cNot just the Israelis and Palestinians, but all of us have a responsibility to prepare for peace,\u201d he concluded.<\/p>\n

HOSSAM ZAKI,\u00a0Assistant Secretary General and Chef de Cabinet of the Secretary General of the League of Arab States<\/u>, said the urgent objective is a ceasefire in Gaza, humanitarian aid to its people and the immediate return of the displaced to their homes. \u00a0Warning against continued violence if the Palestinian question is not resolved, or the two-State solution not implemented, he said the pursuit of the two-State solution over the past three decades has always come up against Israel\u2019s brick wall of persistent occupation of the Palestinian territories. \u00a0Urging the Council to see things as they are, he said the Israeli occupation will not voluntarily forfeit land or control. \u00a0The Palestinian people have proven that they are fully qualified to establish their independent State and to be full members of the United Nations. \u00a0Any talk of postponing this matter undermines the aspirations of Palestinian independence and belittles their legitimate right to independence and freedom, he stressed.<\/p>\n

Granting full membership to Palestine would put any negotiations between it and the occupying Power on an equal footing, he continued. \u00a0The Council must recognize the State of Palestine and grant it full membership in the UN as a path toward peace. \u00a0Noting excessive efforts to delegitimize UNRWA, he said the Agency must be allowed to continue its work in providing aid to millions of Palestinian refugees. \u00a0Remaining silent over the continued crime in Gaza will place the Council\u2019s legitimacy at risk, he emphasized, voicing hope that the Council will implement its resolution.<\/p>\n

NASSER KAMEL,\u00a0Secretary General of the Union for the Mediterranean<\/u>, recalled a meeting between the Foreign Ministers of the Union\u2019s member States in Barcelona on 27\u00a0November\u00a02023, following which a joint communiqu\u00e9 was issued identifying points of convergence.\u00a0 These included expressions of concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, of the need to protect civilians and of the rejection of Palestinian displacement, as well as calls to implement the two-State solution with clear timelines and agreed implementation mechanisms.\u00a0 Noting that Israel and Palestine are among the Union\u2019s founding members, he said that the organization can be \u201ca keystone in shaping a new vision for the future of the region\u201d.\u00a0 War and vengeance can only lead to more brutality, he stressed, stating that the only way to ensure security for both Israelis and Palestinians is to collectively exert the necessary pressure \u201cto stop this conflagration, and to stop it now\u201d.<\/p>\n

The representative of\u00a0Saudi Arabia<\/u>, also speaking on behalf of the\u00a0Group of Arab States<\/u>, expressed full support for the long-awaited draft resolution submitted by Algeria.\u00a0 Voting against this draft will deprive the Palestinian people of their legitimate right to full UN membership and is an appeasement of the Israeli occupation authority that rejects the two-State solution.\u00a0 Noting that over 140 countries have recognized the State of Palestine, he underscored that this will not be the last attempt of the group of Arab States, which \u201cwill continue to knock on the Council\u2019s door, demanding the rights of the Palestinian people\u201d.\u00a0 Granting Palestinians full membership in the Organization is \u201can important step on the path of peace and stability in the region\u201d, he observed, condemning the Israeli war machine targeting civilians in Gaza amid shameful international silence.\u00a0 Further, he expressed concern over the occupation forces\u2019 intention to launch a ground offensive on Rafah \u2014 the last resort for the people of Gaza \u2014 in violation of resolution 2728 (2024).<\/p>\n

The representative of\u00a0Egypt<\/u>\u00a0said there is a legitimate and inherent right of the Palestinian people to a State.\u00a0 There should be equality in rights and legal status among all peoples, and equality among Palestinians and Israelis \u2014 this is what is just.\u00a0 Israel believes that it is above the law, he said, by launching attacks on neighbouring States and breaking international law and norms.\u00a0 This has led to a vicious cycle that is difficult to contain.\u00a0\u201cEverybody will lose.\u201d\u00a0 He rejected Israel\u2019s attempts to \u201cspread the fire\u201d across the Middle East and open new fronts in this war to distract world opinion from its actions in Gaza.\u00a0 Any appeasement of Israeli attacks on neighbouring countries will lead the Middle East in a downward spiral that will be paid for by everyone in the world.\u00a0 There must be an immediate halt of hostilities in Gaza, he said, noting that his country will not allow Israel to take advantage of the current regional atmosphere and use flimsy excuses to attack Rafah or expand the scope of its military operations in Gaza.\u00a0 He called on the Council to issue a resolution under Chapter\u00a07 of the Charter of the United Nations for an immediate and permanent ceasefire to oblige Israel to open all crossings around Gaza and allow aid access.\u00a0 He also asked for a resolution to prevent the export of weapons to Israel, to hold it accountable for its crimes and oblige it to pay reparations.\u00a0 The Council should support Palestine\u2019s request for full membership, he said, adding that Palestine fulfils all the practical requirements for the concept of a State and the requirements stated in Article\u00a0IV of the Charter.<\/p>\n

The representative of\u00a0Qatar<\/u>, aligning herself with the Arab Group and OIC and recalling the recent \u201calarming developments\u201d in the region, emphasized the urgent need to halt the bloodshed in Gaza to prevent further escalation. \u00a0She reiterated a call for the parties to de-escalate and for the international community to prevent the region from spiraling into violence. \u00a0Qatar condemns all forms of civilian targeting and collective punishment policies by the Israeli occupying authorities, she said, urging for the implementation of resolution 2728 (2024) and the orders of the International Court of Justice. \u00a0On the diplomatic level, Qatar will continue its efforts aimed at alleviating the suffering of people in Gaza and securing the release of hostages on both sides. \u00a0Moreover, her country has increased its funding to UNWRA by $25\u00a0million in addition to previous contributions. \u00a0\u201cThe only guarantee to achieve peace is a ceasefire that leads to meaningful political talks and a comprehensive settlement,\u201d she said, voicing support for the draft resolution recommending acceptance of the State of Palestine as a full-fledged UN member.<\/p>\n

The representative of\u00a0Libya<\/u>, associating himself with Algeria \u2014 the Arab representative in the Council \u2014 and the Arab Group, said Palestine is a peace-loving State, unlike what the Israeli entity has tried to promote today. \u00a0The resolution tabled by Algeria comes at a time when 140 countries \u2014 75\u00a0per\u00a0cent of peoples around the world \u2014 have recognized the State of Palestine. \u00a0Despite this, some are still talking about reviving the peace process and a peaceful settlement of the crisis based on the two-State solution. \u00a0\u201cWhy this contradiction?\u201d he asked. \u00a0His country will remain steadfast to the just cause of the Palestinian people. \u00a0Addressing those who are still trying to distort the truth, he said: \u00a0\u201cYou cannot limit the current crisis to 7\u00a0October; you cannot forget the violence and massacres committed for over seven decades in all the occupied territories.\u201d<\/p>\n

The representative of\u00a0Liechtenstein<\/u>\u00a0expressed concern over \u201ca counter-productive and unfounded suggestion that resolution 2728 (2024) might not be legally binding\u201d.\u00a0 Quoting Article\u00a025 of the Charter of the United Nations \u2014 that Member States agree to accept and carry out Council decisions \u2014 she stressed:\u00a0\u201cIf there is any doubt, especially in the minds of Council members, that this is an unequivocal statement on the legally binding nature of Council decisions, there is little reason left to aim for Council action.\u201d\u00a0 And yet, further Council action is needed to protect civilians and effect an immediate, durable and sustained humanitarian ceasefire.\u00a0 She added that Palestine \u201cfulfils the basic criteria for Statehood under international law\u201d.<\/p>\n

The representative of the\u00a0Philippines<\/u>\u00a0voiced concern over the increasing tensions between Israel and Iran, urging all parties to refrain from escalating the situation and to work towards a peaceful resolution of their conflict.\u00a0 Expressing support for a two-State solution, he underscored that Israelis and Palestinians deserve a shared future where their rights, aspirations, and security are upheld.\u00a0 Noting that over 90\u00a0per\u00a0cent of the population is facing food insecurity and critical shortages of electricity and water, he said the scale of displacement and destruction of homes and schools is also alarming, threatening the future of an entire generation.\u00a0 In this regard, he recognized the paramount significance of resolution 2728 (2024), which addresses the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.\u00a0 Ending the enduring Israeli-Palestinian conflict is \u201ca pivotal determinant\u201d for regional peace and stability, he said.<\/p>\n

The representative of\u00a0South Africa<\/u>, associating himself with the Non-Aligned Movement, called for all parties in the region to exercise utmost restraint.\u00a0 Noting past Council commitments, he said it must also act for sustainable and just peace.\u00a0\u201cOtherwise, why bother adopting statements and resolutions that would become meaningless should they be ignored.\u201d\u00a0Unless the international community commits itself to ending war and to establishing conditions under which justice and respect for international law are maintained the proliferation of global conflicts will continue.\u00a0 He added that the international community must avoid \u201cany retributive actions\u201d as Palestine pursues its right to seek UN membership. \u00a0He said his country believes the Palestinian people\u2019s right to their own fully independent State must be recognized by all, and their aspiration for UN membership should be supported.<\/p>\n

The representative of\u00a0Bangladesh<\/u>\u00a0expressed concern that despite the adoption of resolution 2728 (2024), which called for an immediate ceasefire for the month of Ramadan, the situation remains \u201cabsolutely frustrating and unacceptable\u201d, with an increasing death toll in Gaza. \u00a0He noted the \u201celusive prospect\u201d of a negotiated ceasefire, with Israel blatantly disregarding decisions by the Council, General Assembly, Human Rights Council and International Court of Justice. \u00a0Against this backdrop, he urged all Member States to comply with the recent Human Rights Council resolution on halting arms transfers to the occupying Power. \u00a0Highlighting the General Assembly\u2019s strong vote in favour of accepting Palestine as a UN member, he called on the Council to do the same. \u00a0\u201cThe root cause of all past and present instability in the Middle East is the prolonged Israeli occupation of the Palestinian and Arab territories,\u201d he said, adding that peace in the region hinges on resolving this core issue.<\/p>\n

The representative of the\u00a0United Arab Emirates<\/u>, aligning with the Arab Group, urged Council members to vote in favour of the draft resolution recommending that Palestine be granted full UN membership.\u00a0 It has been an active member of the international community, its Statehood is already recognized by 140 countries, it has joined many international instruments and it plays an active role in regional and international organizations.\u00a0 He also recalled that, through General Assembly resolution 181, the Organization committed to establishing two States in Palestine \u2014 \u201cone Arab, one Jewish\u201d.\u00a0However, while Israel was subsequently established, the Palestinian people are still waiting for their State.\u00a0Stressing that granting the State of Palestine full UN membership would consolidate peace efforts, he stressed that recent events have proven that the international community\u2019s approach of managing the conflict \u2014 instead of taking concrete steps towards a resolution \u2014 \u201cremains a futile course of action\u201d.<\/p>\n

CHEIKH NIANG, Chair of the\u00a0Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People<\/u>, rejected linking the origin of the current crisis solely to the 7\u00a0October attack on Israel. \u00a0The historical context, spanning over 76 years, helps to understand the illegal Israeli occupation of the Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, decades of documented human rights violations, grave breaches of international humanitarian law and seventeen years of blockade of the Gaza Strip. \u00a0\u201cAddressing such issues is essential for a just and lasting resolution to the question of Palestine, including the current catastrophic crisis in Gaza,\u201d he stressed.\u00a0 While welcoming the adoption of resolution 2728 (2024), he expressed deep regret that it was not implemented. \u00a0\u201cRamadan is over, and thousands of Palestinian civilians continue to be killed and maimed,\u201d he said, stating:\u00a0 \u201cThis must stop.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGaza today is the victim of an openly admitted human-made famine,\u201d he said, noting that, concurrently, Israel\u2019s occupying forces and armed settlers continue to inflict violence and dispossession on the Palestinian population in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. \u00a0He also condemned Israel\u2019s deliberate attacks on humanitarian workers and infrastructure, noting \u201cthe disparity in attention devoted to these incidents, including the killing of 178 UNRWA and other staff, and the equally horrendous World Central Kitchen staff tragedy\u201d. \u00a0Further, he emphasized that Israel must stop targeting journalists, and the international press must be allowed access to Gaza.\u00a0 The ramifications of UNRWA\u2019s collapse \u201cgo beyond mere humanitarian concerns\u201d, he warned, stressing that it would \u201cthreaten to ignite new flames of tension and conflict in an already volatile region\u201d. \u00a0Calling on Member States to support the State of Palestine\u2019s application for UN membership, he said this crucial step will support the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and the realization of the two-State solution.<\/p>\n

The representative of\u00a0Indonesia<\/u>\u00a0said that Palestine becoming a full member of the UN is a long overdue course of action to uphold justice, restart negotiations on the two-State solution on an equal footing and give hope to the Palestinian people.\u00a0 \u201cHow can we achieve lasting peace if Palestine is continuously denied its right to equal standing in peace negotiations,\u201d he said.\u00a0He called on all Council members to use their moral compass and support the resolution.\u00a0 Otherwise, the credibility of the multilateral system will be undermined, and peace will become more elusive.\u00a0 The Council must stop the catastrophe in Gaza, he said, adding that it must call for an immediate ceasefire and implement all resolutions on the political settlement of the conflict.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

9608TH MEETING (AM & PM) SC\/15669 18 April 2024 Meetings records Urging maximum restraint following recent escalations in the Middle East, the Head of the United Nations urged an end to the deadly cycle of retaliation and called on the international community to work together to avert a full-scale regional conflict, first by ending hostilities […]<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":301,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"country":[],"document-category":[1329],"document-source":[1362,6169],"committee-meeting":[],"document-subject":[1769,2005,6790,1741,6845,2153,1745,1626,2385,6898],"entity":[],"document-language":[],"class_list":["post-295309","document","type-document","status-publish","hentry","document-category-press-release","document-source-security-council","document-source-united-nations-department-of-global-communications","document-subject-armed-conflict","document-subject-gaza-strip","document-subject-genocide","document-subject-human-rights-and-international-humanitarian-law","document-subject-protection-of-civilians","document-subject-refugee-camps","document-subject-refugees-and-displaced-persons","document-subject-security-council-briefings","document-subject-security-issues","document-subject-un-charter"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document\/295309","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/document"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/301"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document\/295309\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":296933,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document\/295309\/revisions\/296933"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=295309"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"country","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/country?post=295309"},{"taxonomy":"document-category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document-category?post=295309"},{"taxonomy":"document-source","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document-source?post=295309"},{"taxonomy":"committee-meeting","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/committee-meeting?post=295309"},{"taxonomy":"document-subject","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document-subject?post=295309"},{"taxonomy":"entity","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/entity?post=295309"},{"taxonomy":"document-language","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document-language?post=295309"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}