On November 29th each year, we recognize the date in 1947 when the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution to divide Palestine into two separate states – one for the Arabs and one for the Jews.

An exhibition at UN Headquarters in New York is currently showcasing the 1948 removal of Palestinians from the land that became Israel, referred to as the Nakba (“catastrophe” in Arabic).

Arab families, with their belongings in prams and carts, are seen leaving the town of Jaffa, now part of the larger Tel Aviv area in Israel.

‘Humanitarian catastrophe’

Since 1978, the International Day has been observed. This year, it occurred during a time of conflict in the Gaza Strip, as the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is due to end after lasting for six days.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated that the Palestinians in Gaza are enduring a “humanitarian catastrophe” in his message for the Day.

“He stated that nearly 1.7 million individuals have been displaced from their residences, with no safe haven. He also cautioned that the circumstances in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem could potentially escalate.”

A reminder of 1948

According to Philippe Lazzarini, the director of UNRWA, the UN organization responsible for aiding Palestine refugees for the past 75 years, the issue of Palestine refugees continues to be the longest-standing unresolved refugee crisis in the world.

He stated that the current situation in Gaza is a tragic reminder of the suffering endured by Palestinians in 1948.

UNRWA supports some five million Palestine refugees across the Middle East, providing education, healthcare and social protection, among other services.

Commitment to stay

Mr. Lazzarini stated that in Gaza, they are determined to not only remain, but also to increase their efforts in order to address the significant needs of the community. He pointed out that there are currently over one million individuals living in cramped shelters.

In the regions of the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan, we will persist in our efforts to safeguard our essential services and support for as long as necessary. This will contribute to maintaining crucial stability in the area.

While UNRWA continues to be a source of hope in the midst of despair and devastation, there is a pressing need for a sincere political resolution that addresses the valid hopes and desires of Palestinian refugees.

The Gaza strip has been significantly damaged due to Israeli airstrikes on 10 October 2023.

Defend rights, renew hope.

At the United Nations Headquarters in New York, Dennis Francis, the President of the General Assembly, conveyed his sadness for the loss of lives, both in the last seven weeks and the last seventy years.

According to him, the Palestinian population, just like any other group of individuals, has the inherent and non-negotiable entitlement to lead a life of respect and honor, with all their rights intact. This comprises the right to travel freely, as well as the right to live without fear or deprivation, and the unrestricted availability of essential services.

He stated that it is crucial to revive and maintain their optimism, particularly for the younger age groups who have never known the appearance or sensation of peace.

He stated that by taking this action, the global community will have fulfilled their responsibility of ensuring that all individuals are born with the same rights and dignity.

Dialogue and diplomacy

According to Mr. Francis, the key to guaranteeing that all Palestinians recognize and are granted their fundamental rights is achieving lasting peace in the Middle East.

He emphasized the importance of engaging in conversation while following relevant resolutions from the United Nations and international agreements.

The individual expressed approval for ongoing attempts at diplomatic resolution to decrease tensions and endorsed all initiatives to enforce the ceasefire and optimize its beneficial effects on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

“Peace for all’

He expressed the importance of making the most of these peaceful days to address the urgent needs of Palestinians, including the ability to grieve for their deceased, access necessary resources like food and water, and receive essential services without any obstacles.

The President of the Assembly stated that the UN must not forget its fundamental purpose of achieving peace for all, which was the reason for its establishment.

The speaker asked the global community to use its influence to find a solution through open communication and building confidence in negotiations in the Middle East.

Source: news.un.org