A/75/PV.70 General Assembly

Before proceeding further, Members will recall that, at its 67th plenary meeting, on 20 May 2021, the General Assembly decided to close the list of speakers for the joint debate on these items. The President of the General Assembly has since been approached by several delegations requesting to be inscribed on the list. In order for the Assembly to consider those requests, it must first agree, under rule 81 of its rules of procedure, to reconsider the decision to close the list of speakers for the joint debate. May I take it that the Assembly agrees to reconsider the decision to close the list of speakers for the joint debate on agenda items 37 and 38?

May I also take it that the Assembly wishes to reopen the list of speakers in the joint debate on these items until 11 a.m. today?

I align myself with the statement delivered previously by Sweden on behalf of the Nordic countries (see A/75/PV.67), and I will now add some further remarks in my national capacity. Norway followed this month’s escalation in violence between militant groups in Gaza and Israel with great concern, and we welcome the ceasefire last week with significant relief. I commend Egypt, Qatar, the United Nations and the United States for their efforts. It is encouraging to see that the ceasefire still holds. We call on the parties and on all actors to maintain calm across Israel and Palestine. Together with China and Tunisia, Norway took an active role in the Security Council during the hostilities, and we are pleased that the Council came together to agree on a press statement (SC/14527) on 22 May, with clear messages to the parties and to the international community. The hostilities took a heavy toll on the civilian population. More than 250 people, including over 60 children, were killed during the 11 days of fighting. New traumas have been created. Also, in addition to the loss of lives and the internal displacement, there is significant damage to civilian infrastructure in Gaza, which must be reconstructed. Humanitarian needs are again sharply increasing. Norway appeals for the international community to direct emergency funding for humanitarian assistance to Gaza without delay. As a first measure, last week Norway announced that it would increase its humanitarian support in Palestine to a total of more than $12 million in 2021. Those additional funds will be disbursed shortly through key humanitarian partners to cover acute needs in Gaza. We also call for rapid, safe and unimpeded access for humanitarian actors to bring in food, health services and other humanitarian relief, including essential goods, such as fuel and gas. The crisis was a stark reminder of the absence of a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It is clear that the fighting did not contribute to resolving any of the underlying issues. The Israeli and Palestinian peoples are no closer to peace than they were before. Yet they also do not need to be farther away from peace. Rather, the parties hold it within their power, with the support of the international community, to move forward along three parallel paths. First, they must avoid renewed fighting, with its devastating impact. Secondly, they must build on the significant gains made during the past decades to continue strengthening the foundations for a future Palestinian State. As Chair of the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee for the Coordination of the International Assistance to Palestinians, Norway remains focused on an agenda to strengthen the Palestinian Authority’s institutions and increase its revenue, with a view to improving the welfare of the Palestinian people. Thirdly, they must redouble their efforts to restart negotiations towards the two-State solution. Only a political solution to the conflict can bring much deserved peace to Israelis and Palestinians.

I thank the President for convening this important meeting. It is very timely, as the developments in Palestine continue to remind us that this issue requires our utmost attention and action here at the United Nations. Brunei Darussalam aligns itself with the statement made by the representative of Azerbaijan on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (see A/75/ PV.67) and the statement to be made later on in this meeting by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. We would also like to reiterate the joint leaders’ statement of Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam on the escalation of violence by Israelis in the occupied Palestinian territory of 16 May, reflecting our collective voices on the dire situation in Palestine and the need for urgent action on this matter. Brunei Darussalam expresses its grave concern over the attacks that started during the holy month of Ramadan by the occupying Power against civilians, including women and children, and the bombings in Gaza, along with the continued forced displacement of Palestinian families, most recently in Sheikh Jarrah. The prolonged occupation, forced displacement and illegal expansion of settlements have not only hindered the Palestinians’ aspiration for statehood, but also deprived them of their basic human rights, including access to education, clean water and even the right to live. Those acts of violence and aggression, which violate international law and the relevant United Nations resolutions, need to be addressed and condemned by the international community. The international community, and particularly the Security Council, has a special responsibility to call for the cessation of all violence and to fulfil its obligations of upholding international peace. Brunei Darussalam fully supports all efforts aimed at finding a comprehensive and lasting peace on the basis of the two-State solution towards achieving an independent State of Palestine, based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. We reaffirm our belief that the two-State solution is the most viable long-term solution. Wen join the international community in reiterating our serious concerns about any change to the status quo of Jerusalem. The United Nations and its Member States made a promise to create the future we want, one where all nations can enjoy their fundamental rights to peace, freedom, justice and self-determination. That is the United Nations that we need — one that does not leave anyone behind. The United Nations, as the most legitimate and truly representative Organization in the world, also has a moral and legal obligation to ensure Member States uphold international law and exercise accountability for actions that contravene them. Brunei Darussalam reaffirms its support for all United Nations efforts in galvanizing multilateral efforts in addressing the Palestinian conflict and safeguarding the human dignity and rights of the Palestinian people. In that regard, we continue to support all relevant Security Council and General Assembly resolutions, particularly on the need for the final status of Jerusalem to be resolved through negotiations among all the parties concerned.

The Philippines followed with serious concern the recent violence in parts of Israel, the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, which lasted almost two weeks, especially with regard to the deaths of many civilians, particularly children, and the related destruction. We therefore welcome the ceasefire last week between Israel and Hamas, which put a stop to the killings and destruction. We underline the need to maintain the ceasefire and avoid further killings and destruction. The Philippines recognizes the resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as a key to the region’s peace and stability. The Philippines supports the peaceful implementation of all United Nations initiatives towards the resolution of the Middle East conflict and supports all efforts to revive the Middle East peace process articulated in the Quartet’s road map for peace. The Philippines has always expressed support for the creation of a State of Palestine, living in peace and security with its neighbours. In that regard, the Philippines reaffirms its support for a two-State solution. We commend the efforts of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, under extraordinary circumstances, to immediately respond to the humanitarian needs of affected populations, refugees and non-refugees, including the tens of thousands of people who have sought safety in Agency schools in Gaza, including designated emergency shelters, which are equipped to host internally displaced persons during times of conflict. The Philippines enjoins the parties to put more intense focus to building trust and confidence. We also ask them to refrain from further actions that could incite violence. We encourage the parties to clearly demonstrate their resolve to pursue a just and lasting peace, from which the world, and not only their peoples, would undoubtedly benefit. We call on all stakeholders, including the Middle East Quartet, to help negotiate the best possible diplomatic outcome. As the Secretary-General stated recently, “A revitalized peace process is the only route to a just and lasting solution”. Finally, the Philippines urges the community of nations to support the two parties in a manner that would expand the space for dialogue, mutual understanding and cooperation for peace among the parties concerned.

I deliver this statement on behalf of the Republic of Honduras, its people and its Government so that my country may contribute, within its capacities, to broad global efforts to maintain peace among all the peoples of the world. We therefore emphatically condemn the attacks recently perpetrated against the State of Israel by terrorist groups. The Government of Honduras, as a pacifist State that upholds the Charter of the United Nations, regrets the spilling of blood in the recent escalation of violence, which threatens peace in the Middle East, and calls on the international community, through established, necessary and timely measures, to promote respect for the self-determination of peoples and their right to live in peace. As we have already stated, the Republic of Honduras has consistently reaffirmed before relevant international institutions its continuous commitment to fighting international terrorism in all its manifestations. As is clear, humankind cannot and should not ignore the continuous warnings about and challenges from the growing threat of terrorist groups, and must continue being faithful to the letter and the spirit of the various resolutions adopted under the auspices of the United Nations as well as international agreements. In conclusion, Honduras welcomes the fact that a ceasefire agreement has been agreed, firm in our conviction that all peoples have the right to live in peace with security and dignity.

Switzerland welcomes the conclusion of a ceasefire in the Middle East after 11 days of hostilities and commends Egypt for its efforts, in coordination with the United Nations, to help restore calm. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is particularly worrisome. In that regard, Switzerland stresses the importance of guaranteeing humanitarian access, including keeping all crossings into the Gaza Strip open without hindrance, in accordance with international humanitarian law. Palestinian and Israeli civilians have already suffered too much from this new cycle of violence, which has killed and injured many, among them many children. All efforts must now be devoted to ensuring that this tragedy is not repeated. Switzerland calls on all parties to respect the ceasefire and to seize this momentum to launch a credible peace process that can resolve the root causes of the conflict, in accordance with international law and internationally agreed parameters, including Security Council resolutions. Switzerland reiterates its call on all parties to respect their obligations under international law and to immediately cease all unilateral measures that undermine the two-State solution, in accordance with Security Council resolution 2334 (2016). To be sustainable, reconstruction efforts must be part of such a process. Switzerland remains concerned about the continuing violence in Israel and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the related wave of arrests. We call on Israeli and Palestinian leaders to refrain from any provocative actions and rhetoric and to take a stand against violence. Peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians is possible only if the rights of both are based on the principle of equality. For Switzerland, the preservation of the historical status quo on the Haram Al-Sharif/Temple Mount and the peaceful coexistence of all residents of Jerusalem must be guaranteed, in accordance with international law. Switzerland supports the vision formulated by the Security Council of a region with two democratic States, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and within secure and recognized borders. We recall that Gaza is an integral part of the future Palestinian State and that no effort must be spared to achieve genuine national reconciliation that brings divisions to an end. Switzerland remains at the disposal of the parties to facilitate the resumption of dialogue towards a negotiated two-State solution, which is the only way to achieve a just and lasting peace. It is time to offer such prospects to young Israeli and Palestinian generations.

We thank the President of the General Assembly, Mr. Volkan Bozkir, for convening the present meeting to consider the concern raised among the international community by the deterioration of the situation in the Middle East. The escalation of violence in Jerusalem and Gaza, claiming numerous lives and wounding many more — victims with whose families we stand shoulder to shoulder  — has only aggravated the already- precarious situation of the civilian population, which is the group most affected by the prevailing situation. Moreover, not only does this not help in the search for alternative solutions for achieving peace in the Middle East, but, worse, it also has fuelled a spiral of insurmountable hatred, which hampers dedicated efforts to make room for dialogue. Nonetheless, we urge major international actors not to relent, and, in that regard, we call on the Security Council to take the necessary measures, taking into account its weighty responsibility to uphold global peace and security. The Government of my country has called on the parties to “put an end to hostilities and return to the path of dialogue so as to avoid further loss of human life”. Before the General Assembly today, we join the international community in welcoming the ceasefire declared on 21 May and in recognizing the important role played by several countries, especially Egypt and Qatar, in bringing an end to the hostilities and acts of aggression as the only way for getting back on track towards peace. We also appeal for the effective delivery of the necessary humanitarian assistance and for the security of the personnel providing such assistance in the region to be upheld. We recall that this situation further adds to the devastation caused by the coronavirus disease  — an enemy with which no truce is possible, which is why we call for all necessary efforts to be made to alleviate the pain and suffering of thousands of innocent families, women and children. The Republic of Paraguay fully and firmly believes that dialogue and direct negotiations in good faith between the parties represent the only way to achieve definitive, just and lasting peace. It is therefore crucial that the international community step up its efforts for the resumption of the peace process and reaffirm that strict observance of international humanitarian law and of the human rights of all parties involved in the conflict is imperative. In conclusion, we reaffirm that today there is greater need than ever to reach a just solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations, relevant Security Council resolutions and other pertinent decisions in favour of peaceful coexistence within secure and internationally recognized borders. I assure the Assembly, as ever, of the steadfast and decisive commitment and the Republic of Paraguay.

Portugal aligns itself with the statement delivered by the representative of the European Union in its capacity as observer (see A/75/PV.68). Portugal welcomes the announcement of the ceasefire, ending the violence in Gaza and in Israel. We commend all efforts made in that regard, in particular those lead by Egypt, Jordan, the United Nations and other key players. It is now crucial that all parties respect and fully implement the ceasefire. Portugal strongly condemns the indiscriminate rocket attacks by Hamas and other militant groups against Israel. Although recognizing that Israel has the right to self-defence, we remind all parties of the need to uphold international humanitarian law, particularly when it comes to the protection of civilians, and to ensure that the principles of proportionality, distinction and precaution be respected when conducting military operations. Portugal deeply regrets the loss of civilian lives over 11 days of hostilities. Portugal would like to add its voice to those stressing the immediate need for humanitarian assistance to the civilian population in Gaza and expresses its support for the Secretary-General’s appeal for the international community to work with the United Nations on developing an integrated, robust package towards swift and sustainable reconstruction and recovery. The latest cycle of violence that we have just witnessed confirms that we cannot afford to simply return to the status quo ante. There is an urgent need to address the root causes that fuelled the recent situation and renew our commitment towards a two-State solution that meets Israeli and Palestinians security needs. That means, first and foremost, to put an end to all acts of provocation, incitement, violence and destruction, to uphold and respect the status quo of the Holy Sites, and to stop all illegal policies of settlement construction and expansion, such as forced evictions and demolitions. The recurrent clashes in other parts of the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, as well as the upsurge in communal violence in Israeli cities, are also deeply worrisome. The recent escalation of violence shows that there is an urgent need for the legitimate parties to return to the negotiating table, with the support of the international community, including a revitalized Quartet and regional partners. Only a negotiated two-State solution, with two States living side-by-side in peace and security and mutual recognition, based on international agreed parameters, international law and previous agreements, can put an end to these devastating cycles of violence, meet the legitimate aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians alike and ensure lasting peace in the region.

Croatia fully aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union last week (see A/75/PV.68). Allow me also to share some points in my national capacity. What we witnessed last week in the Middle East was deeply disturbing and worrisome. We were appalled by the number of victims, especially children. We condemn indiscriminate rocket attacks by Hamas and other groups against civilian targets and recognize Israel’s legitimate right to defend itself in accordance with international humanitarian law. We welcome the ceasefire agreement brokered by Egypt and expect all sides to work towards its consolidation and sustainability. It is important to protect civilians and prevent further deepening of the crisis. The ceasefire should also contribute to creating an atmosphere conducive to resumption of the much- needed political process. This most recent escalation exacerbated the already- difficult human rights and humanitarian situation, and humanitarian access to all those in need must be ensured. In that respect, Croatia fully supports the Secretary- General’s call for the international community to work with the United Nations on developing an integrated and robust package of support for swift and sustainable reconstruction and recovery. In the long term, our focus should be on addressing the root causes of the conflict. We need to restore a political horizon for peace and work towards the relaunching of the political process. In that respect, Croatia fully supports a two-State solution based on internationally agreed parameters and international law. We need to combine our short- and long-term goals. Only through such an approach can we create a chance for peace for both Palestinians and Israelis. Only in that way can we ensure that horrific scenes of killed innocent civilians, including women and children, will be no more.

I thank the President of the General Assembly for convening this meeting to address the situation in the Middle East and the question of Palestine, with a view to promoting constructive dialogue among all parties. Colombia welcomes the ceasefire declared on 20 May and congratulates the facilitators, Egypt and other countries of the region, for the great effort and spirit of cooperation they displayed. We express our support for the Secretary-General’s call for the ceasefire and for full respect for this measure. The participation of the United Nations, the Middle East Quartet and other international actors made that outcome possible, which is greatly appreciated by the international community and which filled us with hope. My country expresses itself solidarity with the victims of the acts of violence and terrorism perpetrated over recent weeks. We reaffirm the importance of restoring security guarantees and of full respect for the rights of the entire population in the context of the coronavirus disease, with a view to ending hostilities and moving towards a definitive solution to the root causes of the conflict. My country has historically supported a definitive and comprehensive peaceful solution to the Palestinian question, based on the wo-State solution, the 1967 borders and the agreements reached through negotiation pursuant to relevant Security Council resolutions. Colombia would like today to reaffirm its support for the right of the State of Israel to live in peace within secure and internationally recognized borders. We would also like to express our support for the rights of the Palestinian people to free determination and to establish an independent and lasting State recognized by the international community.

Romania welcomes to the recent ceasefire announcement ending the escalation of violence in Israel and Palestine. Romania joined previous calls by the Secretary-General, the European Union and many other international actors for a lasting ceasefire in order to prevent additional loss of life and to ensure unfettered humanitarian access to all those in need. Now swift implementation and observance are key. Indiscriminate violence is not an option. We strongly believe that all civilian lives, on all sides, should be protected, in accordance with international humanitarian law. We support and further encourage the ongoing efforts by the United Nations, the European Union, the United States of America and the key Arab allies in order to reduce tensions and prevent further attacks, as peace represents our common objective. Israelis and Palestinians alike have the right to live in safety, freedom and prosperity. Ending the violence should also engender new opportunities to address the deep and complex root causes of the conflict and renew the work of all actors towards forging peace. Romania supports confidence-building measures aimed at facilitating a framework favourable to the resumption of direct talks in support of the two-State solution. We consider that to be the only viable option capable of ensuring a just and lasting peace in the region. In that context, we reiterate our strong support for the resumption of the meetings of the Middle East Quartet.

Nicaragua associates itself with the statement delivered by the delegation of Azerbaijan on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (see A/75/PV.67). The Government of Reconciliation and National Unity of Nicaragua expresses its deep consternation at the tragic increase in violence affecting the Palestinian people and communities as well as the people of Israel. We wish to express Nicaragua’s full solidarity with and support for the heroic Palestinian people and for their cause and aspiration to self-determination, peace and justice. The United Nations and its organs have been unable to resolve this long-standing issue on our agenda. That failure to act has led to the deterioration of the situation in the Middle East and given rise to severe restrictions in the social and economic areas as well as a serious human rights situation and a humanitarian crisis. Nicaragua will not cease its call and support for a solution based on two States, the State of Israel and the State of Palestine, on the basis of the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital, coexisting on an equal footing with their aspirations fully met, in peace, security, cooperation and harmony. It is a universal goal not to leave anyone behind in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Palestine is not the exception and, as a State, has the same right to development as all our States. Nicaragua wishes to reaffirm its conviction that the negotiation and full implementation of the resolutions of the General Assembly and the Security Council are the appropriate legal and diplomatic instruments for achieving peace and stability in the Middle East. Nicaragua will always back and reaffirms its full support for all dialogue and negotiation initiatives that lead to peace, unity and cooperation in the region. We wish to express our principled position on the urgent need for respect for the peaceful sovereignty of peoples. We reaffirm, on behalf of the families and the people of Nicaragua, the imperative need to prevent greater suffering and to advance on the paths of dialogue and peace outlined by the United Nations. We call for the intensification of efforts at the national, regional and international levels in support of a just and lasting solution to the situation in the Middle East and the question of Palestine. The whole world is hoping that the most recent ceasefire will be the beginning of the end of the cycle of destruction, reconstruction and destruction from which the people of Palestine suffer on an ongoing basis.

My delegation would like to thank the President of the General Assembly for having acted swiftly to convene this plenary on the situation in the Middle East and the question of Palestine, respectively. As we speak out against the parlous situation in the Middle East, specifically in the occupied Palestinian territories, Namibia wishes to associate itself with the statements made on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement, the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People and the Group of African States, as delivered by the representatives of Azerbaijan, Senegal and the Comoros, respectively (see A/75/PV.67-68). We have observed with grave concern the rising tension and recent outbreak of warfare in East Jerusalem, particularly the attack on worshippers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the forceful removal of Palestinian families from Sheikh Jarrah by the Israeli occupying force. The brutal force disproportionately meted out against civilians, including women and children, has created both a humanitarian and security crisis in the region. We condemn the evil brutality of those callous attacks and offer our heartfelt sympathy and solidarity to the victims and in connection with the civilian casualties. Namibia has a strong history of solidarity with the struggling people of Palestine that is rooted in our own struggle against apartheid South Africa and its illegal occupation of our country. We share an understanding of how disenfranchising it is to be denied the inalienable right to self-determination and to be on the receiving end of such great and grave injustices. It is within that context that we came to this House in support of the call made by the Secretary-General for a ceasefire. We are relieved to note the latest developments pertaining to the ceasefire, and, recognizing that it is still fragile, we urge all parties to uphold their commitments in order for the ceasefire to hold and, through dialogue and diplomacy, resume peaceful avenues for the resolution of this long-standing conflict. We join countless voices around the globe in decrying the failure on the part of the Security Council to speak with one voice and act expeditiously against blatant violations of international law and the principles contained in the Charter of the United Nations by the occupying Power in this long, drawn-out unresolved conflict. It is regrettable, if not deplorable, that the Council in which we have placed trust and to which we have given the power to exercise, on our collective behalf, primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security continues to be paralysed when it comes to implementing the myriad Council resolutions adopted since the Nakba in 1948, when Palestinians were displaced from their homeland by the creation of the new State of Israel. The inability on the part of the Council to have expressed itself on what could have been described as a raging war in East Jerusalem at the time is not only a source of deep concern but also has the potential to undermine the trust that we the peoples, including the people of Palestine, have placed in the Council. We reiterate our standing call for the Security Council to take more decisive action in pursuit of a peaceful resolution of the conflict and to impress upon the parties the need to return to the negotiating table. Additionally, we call on the international community to support the Palestinian people through the implementation of all relevant United Nations resolutions, which are in conformity with the responsibility to have full regard for international law and human rights. To that end, Namibia wishes to reiterate that we see the two-State solution as the only viable solution for lasting peace. In that regard, we wish to echo the call made by the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People for Member States that have not yet done so to urgently consider recognition of the State of Palestine as a means of making tangible progress towards a just and fair two-State solution, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security as good neighbours. A complete disregard for human lives and holy sites is among the many unfortunate events that we have witnessed over the past few weeks. At the same time, we have seen significant damage to infrastructure, including United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) buildings, and the bombing of the building housing Associated Press, Al Jazeera and other media houses. To that end, we wish to call for adequate supplementary support for United Nations agencies such as UNRWA in order for them to provide human development and humanitarian services in the occupied territories, especially as the coronavirus disease pandemic presents an added burden on an already dire situation. In conclusion, allow me to impress on us all the need for the Assembly to continue to do all it can to yield a sustainable outcome for the Palestinian people, as statehood and independence form part of their inalienable and legal rights. Only when that has happened can both the Israeli and the Palestinian peoples have the opportunity to live in peace, side by side. That is ultimately the wish that we all have in common.

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of His Excellency Mr. Mamadou Tangara, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Gambia, who could not be here in person to do so owing to urgent State matters. “My delegation fully associates itself with the statement delivered by the Comoros on behalf of the Group of African States (see A/75/PV.67). We also align ourselves with the statements delivered on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (ibid.). “The Gambia is deeply concerned by the scale of the recent violence in the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, including the desecration of the Al-Aqsa holy site, the sanctity of which must be respected by all. My delegation therefore is calling for an end to the violence against Palestinians and the lifting of blockade on the Gaza Strip. “We are encouraged by the declaration of a ceasefire, and it is our expectation that both parties to the conflict will continue to adhere to the ceasefire, because escalation and worsening violence do not help anybody. The Gambia is therefore appealing to both sides to avoid any further escalation and to adhere to the principles of international law. “We have had too many ceasefires over the last two decades. The international community must now move to a permanent truce and an end to the occupation by addressing the root causes of the conflict with a view to achieving enduring peace. “Peace and security in Palestine and the Middle East mean peace and security for the Middle East region and the world at large. In the light of that fact, the international community must encourage genuine dialogue to end the deadlock and intensify efforts to bring both parties to the conflict to the negotiation table. “The continual use of force and conflict will only add to the suffering of the people living in the area. It is time for the international community to stop the policy of apartheid and act decisively to end this long-standing conflict, which has claimed the lives of many innocent victims while displacing millions. We were all traumatized by the treatment of innocent children, and that needs to stop. “In that regard, my delegation reiterates our call for the revival of the two-State solution on the basis of a renewed and credible peace process involving the Quartet and all stakeholders and in line with the relevant United Nations resolutions. We cannot continue to ignore the humanitarian catastrophe that goes with this conflict. “It is our strong position that peaceful coexistence is the only viable way forward. Therefore, the goal of ending impunity, upholding international law, addressing the dire humanitarian and refugee crisis and having an independent Palestinian State with East Jerusalem as its capital should be urgently pursued by all and sundry. “The Security Council must reassess its role when it comes to finding a lasting solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. The Council must rise to the occasion and work towards a two-State solution as per the relevant resolutions of the United Nations. “For our part, the Gambia has always been consistent in its position on the plight of the Palestinians in pursuit of their inalienable and legitimate right to self-determination and full independence as a sovereign State living peacefully together with its neighbours. That, we believe, is the legitimate and right thing to do. There is an urgent need for a new peace process to be launched for lasting peace in the region. We are appealing to the Quartet to urgently initiate one without delay.”

Bulgaria aligns itself with the statement made on behalf of the European Union on 20 May (see A/75/PV.67). We take this opportunity to welcome once again the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and commend all mediation efforts that led to that result, especially those of the United Nations and Egypt. We call for its swift implementation and strict observance so that a lasting and peaceful solution can be found. The recent escalation of violence between Israel and Hamas and the high number of lost civilian lives and injuries, including those of children and women, is extremely worrying and absolutely unacceptable and should never happen again. We condemn the rocket attacks by Hamas and other terrorist groups against Israel. Bulgaria recognizes Israel’s right to self- defence, which has to be exercised in full respect of international humanitarian law. Relief for the civilian population continues to be of utmost importance, and the priority should be the granting of humanitarian access to those most in need in Gaza. Bulgaria reiterates its support for direct negotiations aimed at achieving a lasting solution to the Israeli- Palestinian conflict based on the principle of two States living side by side in peace and security.

Last Thursday, during the General Assembly meeting on the Israeli-Palestinian crisis (see A/75/PV.67), both the Secretary-General and the President of the Assembly appealed to all parties to lay down their weapons in order to break the vicious circle of violence. Fortunately, the rocket attacks and air strikes stopped, and the long-awaited ceasefire was agreed. Poland welcomes the announced ceasefire bringing to an end the trail of casualties and broken lives. We commend Egypt, Qatar, the United Nations, the United States and others that have made efforts and played a role in the context of that process and call for full adherence to the ceasefire. Poland aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union (see A/75/PV.67), which underscored the critical need for a cessation of hostilities and the implementation of a ceasefire to protect the civilian population. I wish to make a few additional remarks in my national capacity. We are deeply concerned about the recent escalation of violence in Israel and Palestine and regret the loss of life over the past days. In the light of the indiscriminate attacks carried out by Hamas and other groups in Gaza, Israel has the right to defend itself. However, its response must be proportionate and in line with international humanitarian law. We are also gravely worried about the number of civilian victims on the Palestinian side. The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip was already dire before the escalation and has now been further exacerbated by the destruction of civilian infrastructure and the limited medical assistance. The protracted hostilities have had serious consequences in the West Bank as well, undermining regional stability. As the violence ended, it is therefore crucial that the parties resume a constructive dialogue aimed at resolving this long-lasting conflict based on a two- State solution and in line with internationally agreed parameters. The support of all relevant actors, including the Quartet, will be indispensable in that regard. The last escalation reminded us all of the importance of reviving the peace process. If we do not address the root causes of violence, including Israeli settlements, displacements and evictions as well as the actions of terrorist groups in Gaza, achieving long-term peace and prosperity for both Israelis and Palestinians will prove impossible. In conclusion, let me reiterate that Poland stands ready to support those efforts, which should ultimately lead to the peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, based on the two-State model allowing for the establishment of an independent, democratic and viable Palestinian State living side by side in peace and security with Israel, with Jerusalem as the future capital of both States.

North Macedonia aligns itself with the statement of the European Union (see A/75/PV.67), delivered last Thursday in this joint debate. In addition, we would like to make the following remarks. We welcome the agreement on a ceasefire reached last week, with the hope that it will be fully observed. Now we must closely monitor its implementation, which can open a space for all mediation efforts to further stabilize the situation. We express grave concern regarding the most serious escalation that we have witnessed in Gaza and Israel in years, which has caused immense suffering to and the deaths of innocent civilians, including the deaths of 66 children and 39 women, and forced more than 52,000 people to flee their homes. We take this opportunity to express our deepest condolences to the families of the victims. Bearing in mind that further escalation creates the risk of a major conflict with serious and unpredictable regional consequences, we call on all sides involved to take all steps to stop the hostilities. The indiscriminate launching of rockets by Hamas at civilian targets in Israel and the firing of rockets at the civilian population contravene international humanitarian law and need to cease. We recognize Israel’s right to self-defence, but it must be exercised in strict compliance with international humanitarian law. It is of utmost importance for all parties to respect the historical status quo at the holy sites in Jerusalem. All sides have to ensure the protection of all civilians and protect journalists, media organizations and medical and humanitarian facilities, particularly United Nations facilities where civilians seek shelter. North Macedonia would like to urge all parties to secure the unimpeded access of humanitarian aid to those in need, in particular to the most vulnerable groups. Like many other speakers in this joint debate, we also appeal to all sides involved to provide full support to all ongoing mediation efforts in order to avert further conflict and to begin genuine negotiations for a sustainable political solution that will lead to a peaceful future for Palestinians and Israelis.

We thank the President of the General Assembly for having convened this timely joint debate on the situation in the Middle East and the question of Palestine. Sri Lanka associates itself with the statement delivered by the Chair of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (see A/75/PV.67). Sri Lanka remains deeply concerned over the escalation of violence and the deteriorating situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem. It is unfortunate that during the past weeks we have had to witness an alarming increase of violence in Gaza and across the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Tensions have been continuing unabated, with protests and clashes over Palestinian evictions, between civilians, protesters and police, attacks on places of worship and indiscriminate rocket attacks resulting in much grief, devastation and high human casualties. In fact, it is reported that this has led to the highest number of Palestinian fatalities recorded in a single day in the West Bank since 2008, when the United Nations began tabularizing such figures. Sri Lanka condemns all acts of violence and is dismayed at the increasing number of civilian casualties, including children. We extend our sincere condolences to the families of all those who have lost loved ones during the violence. Further intensification of hostilities would have devastating consequences for both Palestinians and Israelis. We support the Secretary-General’s urgent call on Israel and Palestinian armed groups to take immediate and decisive steps to de-escalate the situation and prevent any further loss of life. Israelis and Palestinians alike have a legitimate right to safety and security. Both sides must step back from the current cycle of violence. After giving deep thought to that heart-wrenching situation, it is evident that protracted conflicts involve a plethora of deeply ingrained grievances. We can all appreciate that conflicts of that nature do not remain static and invariably appear to be unresolvable. However, despite those difficulties, we must believe that peace is achievable. We have seen that negotiations have narrowed the gap between the parties, in large measure thanks to several initiatives by various interlocutors. To be clear, I am not suggesting that reconciling the issues that divide the parties is easy. Nevertheless, we encourage both sides to take steps to achieving meaningful results and welcome the ceasefire in place. We recognize that will require a political and diplomatic leap of faith by both parties in order to cross the gap that will inevitably remain when compromises, concessions and bridging proposals fall short of the ultimate objective. It is undoubtedly an arduous process, but certainly one that can be achieved if only we are willing to open our hearts and let a little accommodation and empathy flow into our inner beings. Ordinary people should be given the opportunity to come together to overcome mutual distrust and build relations at the grass-roots level. Being mindful of the advances of the advances made at successive conferences and the efforts of friendly interlocutors, we should not forget the public-private summits with hundreds of senior governmental and private-sector leaders participating in efforts designed to stimulate investment and business cooperation in the region. It is also important to remember that any third-party initiative to resolve the issue must not be seen as punitive to one party and beneficial to the other. We cannot allow the current situation to slide further into chaos. We support global calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities in order to enable the parties to step back from the brink and commence dialogue. We remain concerned that further continuation may contribute to an increase in radicalization and extremism between the parties and in the wider Middle East region. The international community therefore has a crucial role to play. Sri Lanka welcomes the calls from members of the Security Council, the League of Arab States and others to find a diplomatic solution to the immediate crisis. We support all efforts by leaders of the international community over the past several days to urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint, de-escalate tensions and prevent further violence and civilian casualties. The Holy Land is sacred to people of many faiths around the world. The people of that region are considered to be God’s chosen people. They have played a vital role in the birth of civilization — and for that reason alone I say that the change from hostility to peace must be made. Palestinian and Israeli civilians continue to suffer from cycles of violence and conflict, which will be resolved only when a just and peaceful solution is reached that includes the status of Jerusalem, an end to the occupation and a realization of a two-State solution on the basis of the 1967 lines, relevant United Nations resolutions, international law and mutual agreements, with Israel and Palestine living side by side. We must resolve to achieve peace during our lifetimes. We cannot pass it down to future generations. Both parties to the conflict must create the necessary environment to facilitate peace and there is an urgent need for mutual confidence-building measures to support efforts to resume dialogue and substantive negotiations. The safety of the civilian population in the occupied territories must be ensured, in accordance with international law and practice. Sri Lanka reiterates its support for the implementation of all United Nations resolutions regarding the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people. We continue to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people and hope that the spirit of unity and goodwill demonstrated today will help them work together to preserve their national identity amid the immense difficulties they endure. Further, we hope that during this process the Palestinian people will rise in order to achieve a lasting peace with Israel — a peace that the people in the region have been long deprived of. Let us rededicate our collective efforts and commitment to forge a peaceful settlement on the question of Palestine. To that end, we reaffirm our steadfast support of the cause of the people of Palestine as they strive to gain their legitimate rights and aspirations, while recognizing the legitimate right of the nation of Israel to exist as a nation-State.

My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representatives of Azerbaijan on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries, the Comoros on behalf of the Group of African States and the Niger on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (see A/75/PV.67) and would like to add some remarks in our national capacity. We welcome the ceasefire agreement and commend all parties involved in brokering the negotiations that led to it. We also commend the two parties to the conflict for their compliance to date and urge all parties to comply with their obligations under international law. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has continued for far too long. We decry not only the length of the conflict but also its devastating effect on lives and property. We are also deeply concerned that vulnerable groups like women and children often pay the highest price for the conflict. It is worrisome that the delay in Palestinian statehood has further limited the Palestinian people’s enjoyment of their human rights. It is therefore imperative to continue to describe the Palestinian issue holistically. In that context, Nigeria reaffirms its support for a two-State solution based on the 1967 borders and other agreements. My country calls for that goal to be pursued and for pragmatic decisions to revive the peace process to be prioritized. The crisis we are dealing with has implications for all three pillars of the work of the United Nations — human rights, peace and security and development. In that regard, the long-standing conflict and its resolution or non-resolution is intimately connected with how the Organization is viewed around the world. Occupation, assaults on sovereignty, colonialism, disregard for the rule of law, mutual suspicion and non-specification of borders are at the core of the conflict. Furthermore, its long-standing nature has generated desperation, resignation and hopelessness. That is why it is vitally important for the United Nations to lead efforts to counter the notion — especially in the popular media  — that nothing can be done. On the contrary, there is a lot that we can and should do. We must work harder and more broadly and forcefully to bring about peace between Israel and Palestine and in the Middle East. Efforts to ensure trust, mutual respect and security must be prioritized. Judaism, Christianity and Islam  — the so-called Abrahamic faiths  — have the same roots and family. The practitioners of those faiths must continue to use their platforms to play a constructive role in working for sustainable peace, including through reconciliation and forgiveness, in order to resolve that unfortunate conflict once and for all. The current self-examination and self-reflection following the Black Lives Matter movement sparked globally is an auspicious moment for pushing harder with regard to this conflict. We must accompany the work of interfaith groups and many other people of good organizations in that endeavour. Recent examples of mutual solidarity against Islamophobia, anti-Semitism and hatred of all kinds must inspire us. In conclusion, Nigeria believes that there should be no occupation anywhere in the world, just as there should be no colonialism, hatred or discrimination. These are destructive, not only to peace, but also to democracies. They cannot coexist. The Charter of the United Nations should also guide our actions in finally resolving this conflict quickly and fairly. Nigeria stands ready to work to that end and urges others, especially those with influence on the parties most directly involved, to re-engage with them and the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, in order to achieve that goal.

At the outset, I wish to join previous speakers in expressing appreciation to the President for convening this very important debate on the situation in the Middle East and the question of Palestine. Ghana also notes with appreciation the efforts that were made by the Permanent Representatives of the Niger and Nigeria, in their respective capacities as Chairs of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Group of Arab States, in requesting an urgent debate on this issue in the General Assembly. While Ghana aligns itself with the statements delivered by the Permanent Representatives of the Comoros on behalf of the Group of African States, and Azerbaijan on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (see A/75/PV.67), my delegation nonetheless deems it necessary to make a statement on the situation due to its egregious and unfortunate nature. Over an 11-day period, the international community witnessed the regrettable extinction of almost 250 lives, with several hundreds wounded. The loss of civilian lives, particularly those of women and children, as well as the destruction of properties and livelihoods, was most heartbreaking. Unfortunately, the current situation in the Middle East has worsened the state of human security of the people of the region and degraded the humanitarian situation amid already difficult circumstances. Ghana therefore welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire between Gaza and Israel, reached on Thursday 20 May, and commends the role played by the United States, Egypt, Qatar and other partners of peace. Ghana commiserates with the people of Palestine and Israel, and encourages the leaders of both sides to sustain the ceasefire by silencing the rockets and air strikes as we pursue the legitimate and pacific path towards a restoration of peace. We further believe that the two- State solution, anchored in mutual recognition, remains a viable option for peace and stability in the region. In conclusion, my delegation is cognizant that the path of peace and stability is not travelled alone. Ghana therefore underscores the need for concerted cooperation and support by all Member States on the Israeli-Palestinian issue. We also call for the active involvement of a unified Security Council on the matter, and urge support to bring into reality the much-desired peace that the people of Palestine and Israel deserve.

We thank Mr. Bozkır, President of the General Assembly, as well as Secretary-General António Guterres, for holding this emergency meeting. We also welcome the statements upholding international law and reiterating the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, for and foremost their legitimate right to self-determination and the creation of their independent State with East Jerusalem as its capital. The fact which the international community has agreed upon, namely, that the Palestinian territories occupied by Israel since 1967 in the West Bank, Al-Quds Al-Sharif and the Gaza Strip are indeed occupied territories pursuant to international law. The recent ongoing escalation in occupied territories has resulted in 295 martyrs on the Palestinian side and 12 persons killed on the Israeli side, in addition to thousands of Palestinians wounded and hundreds of thousands displaced, notwithstanding the destruction of the infrastructure, such as hospitals, schools, buildings and homes. All of that is a result of unjustified Israeli provocation. Is it worth all the lives lost? What is happening in the Palestinian territories is only one aspect of occupation. Over 700 resolutions have been adopted by the General Assembly and more than 80 resolutions by the Security Council on this issue. None of them has been implemented by the Israeli occupying Power. Therefore, in order to maintain the credibility of the Security Council, this important organ in international relations, a mechanism to implement these resolutions must be established. As long as there is occupation, there will be resistance. As long as the Palestinian people are on Palestinian territory, resistance will continue. Palestinians have demonstrated their determination by sacrificing blood and precious lives. Their determination will not falter until their legitimate rights are fulfilled, for and foremost their right to self-determination and establishing an independent State with East Jerusalem as its capital. The Arabs and Palestinians have reaffirmed their wish for peace and have made appeals to that end. However, those appeals have fallen on deaf ears of the Israeli politicians. My country, the Sultanate of Oman, calls for peace. We strongly support the path for peace. That does not come through killing and destruction, but through dialogue, negotiation and understandings that serve the interests of both sides. Peace cannot be achieved if security is ensured for one side at the expense of the other. We therefore ask: is it not time for this free and proud people to enjoy their right to establish an independent State, like other people do? Is it not time for the international community to address the occupying State in one single voice, saying enough for all this killing, destruction and death of innocent people? From this international rostrum, my country calls on the parties involved to move towards peace and renounce violence and hostilities. We also call on the Security Council and all of its members, especially those that are sponsoring the peace process, to assume their responsibility for what is happening and make tangible efforts to encourage the Palestinian and Israeli sides to move towards peace, rather than escalating the conflict while taking practical and concrete steps to reach a two-State solution.

I now give the floor to the Permanent Observer of the Observer State of the Holy See. Archbishop Caccia (Holy See): The Holy See has been following with great concern the unfolding of the tragic events in the Holy Land  — the reason for the convening of last week’s plenary meeting (see A/75/ PV.67-68), which continues today. From the outset, Pope Francis appealed publicly, saying: “In these days, violent armed clashes between the Gaza Strip and Israel have gained the upper hand … degenerating into a spiral of death and destruction. Many people have been injured and many innocent people have died. Among them are even children and this is terrible and unacceptable.” The Holy See therefore welcomed the announcement of the ceasefire and considers it an important step to halt the aggressive and senseless hostilities, even if it is only the first step in the right direction. In that regard, the Holy See reiterates that the only way to achieve the long-awaited two-State solution is by means of persistent, genuine and mutually respectful political dialogue. The support of the international community is crucial, especially from parties that can assist Israeli and Palestinian authorities to reach an agreement, including on the question of Jerusalem and other final-status issues. Peacemaking requires much greater courage than resorting to weapons and mutual destruction. It is patient effort that is needed to seek truth and justice; honour the memory of victims; and open the way, step by step, to a shared hope stronger than the desire for vengeance. In that context, the recent violent clashes in many Israeli cities and the confrontations between Israeli and Palestinians in the West Bank constitute a serious wound to peaceful coexistence and fraternity among citizens, which will be difficult to heal if dialogue between the parties is not resumed. We encourage the relevant authorities to use proper and just means to address those tensions. Faced with the increasing humanitarian needs, it is important that all relevant actors play their part to alleviate the compounded suffering of the civilian population greatly affected by the recent hostilities. The peoples of the world pray with one voice for the day when peace — salaam, shalom — will finally reign in the Holy Land. Now is the time for statesmen to make that happen.

I now give the floor to the observer of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

I will deliver a statement on behalf of His Excellency Mr. Yousef bin Ahmad Al-Othaimeen, Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The question of Palestine is central to the agenda of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. It has been brought before the General Assembly time and again over the past seven decades, while hundreds of resolutions affirming the legitimate rights of Palestinian people remain unimplemented and Israel’s historically outrageous injustice remains entrenched. Israel’s law-breaking record and policies, as evidenced by its racist and colonial practices, have recently been exacerbated by the escalation through acts of violence perpetrated by extremist settlers against the Palestinian people, repeated attacks on the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the orders to forcefully evict Palestinian families from their homes in the Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighbourhoods, as well as by attempts to change the legal and historical status of Jerusalem. Those illegal acts, which are clearly being protected, fuelled and legitimized by the Israeli occupation Government, without any political or legal dissuasion, constitute a serious challenge to the political and legal rights of Palestinian people, as well as the will of the international community and ultimately the credibility of political efforts to achieve the two-State solution. They also reveal Israel’s pernicious persistence in violating its obligations under international law, as well as the relevant Security Council and General Assembly resolutions. Because of the gravely deteriorating situation on the ground, on 16 May the OIC held an extraordinary meeting of the Executive Committee at the level of foreign ministers upon the request of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in response to the ongoing aggression by Israel, the occupying Power in the Palestinian territories, particularly against the occupied city of Jerusalem. The OIC demands a complete and immediate halt of the ongoing Israeli military onslaught against the Palestinian people in the besieged Gaza Strip. The violence is escalating, claiming scores of innocent lives and destroying homes, agricultural lands, infrastructure and civil facilities, in blatant violation of international law, including international humanitarian law, and with serious implications for security and stability in the region and beyond. In that regard, we underscore that East Jerusalem is an integral part of the Palestinian territory occupied by Israel since 1967. Israel’s annexation of that territory is illegal, null and void under international law and relevant United Nations resolutions. Despite all the efforts deployed by the majority of its members, the Security Council failed to unanimously speak out against the Israeli violations; ensure compliance with its resolutions and signed agreements; and take the necessary measures to avert dire repercussions that may plunge the already volatile region into a cycle of violence. The international community should uphold its duties vis-à-vis the Palestine issue and act promptly to halt Israel’s illegal colonization and ethnic cleansing policies, save human lives and ensure justice and accountability. It is also invited, at this critical juncture, to contribute to reviving a credible political path for achieving a comprehensive, durable and just solution, to which the OIC remains committed. In conclusion, the forced eviction of Palestinian families from their homes in East Jerusalem must stop. Aggression against Gaza must stop. There can be no lasting peaceful solution without ending Israeli’s illegal colonial occupation and establishing the sovereign and independent State of Palestine along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with the relevant United Nations resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative.

We have heard the last speaker in the joint debate on agenda items 37 and 38. Before giving the floor to those who wish to speak in the exercise of the right of reply, may I remind members that statements in the exercise of the right of reply are limited to 10 minutes for the first intervention and five minutes for the second intervention and should be made by delegations from their seats. I now give the floor to the representative of Turkey.

We completely reject the preposterous accusations of anti-Semitism levelled against Turkey in the statement made by the representative of Israel on 20 May (see A/75/PV.67). Anti-Semitism has never had a place and never gained ground in Turkish society. Our territories have been a homeland and a safe haven for hundreds of thousands of Jews who fled the Inquisition in the fifteenth century, pogroms throughout the centuries and the Holocaust during the Second World War. Courageous Turkish diplomats, one of whom was subsequently honoured by Yad Vashem as Righteous Among Nations, helped rescue countless Jews during the Holocaust. For centuries, Jewish citizens and communities have been living on our lands in peace and tranquillity without any discrimination or fear of persecution. Moreover, we find these accusations highly improper in view of the fact that Turkey is among the main sponsors of the United Nations Human Rights Council resolution that for the first time identified anti-Semitism as an assault on human rights. It is also worth recalling that anti-Semitism has repeatedly been referred to and condemned by our President as a crime against humanity. Our Foreign Minister voiced this very conviction once again only last week in the General Assembly (see A/75/PV.67), when he emphasized that we consider anti-Semitism to be a crime against humanity, just like Islamophobia and Christianophobia. Criticizing Israeli Government aggression, illegal policies and unilateral attempts to change the facts on the ground cannot and should not be labelled anti-Semitism. In this very Hall, our Foreign Minister reminded us that there are many Jews all over the world, including in Turkey, in the United States of America and in Israel, who criticize Israel’s cruelty and aggression today. Are they also considered anti-Semitic? This baseless allegation is an unfortunate attempt to divert the international community’s attention from the war crimes committed by Israel in the course of the recent attacks on Palestinian civilians. We cannot allow the concept of concept of anti-Semitism to be exploited to exempt the current Israeli Government from accountability. There should be no impunity for systematic, ethnic, religious and cultural cleansing policies carried out against Palestinians in the occupied Palestinian territory.

The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda items 37 and 38.