Guterres states that the Israeli leadership’s refusal of the two-state solution is not acceptable.
The Council meeting’s video stream is scheduled to begin at 2 PM.
Numerous countries are yet to participate in this crucial open discussion. The Council members and several significant regional actors have already shared their perspectives. Here are the key takeaways from Tuesday’s session.
HIGHLIGHTS SO FAR
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The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, stated that Israel’s consistent refusal of the two-state solution is unacceptable. He emphasized that this denial of the Palestinian people’s right to statehood could prolong the conflict and pose a significant threat to global peace and security.
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The members of the council unanimously urged for the implementation of a two-State solution and an end to the ongoing war, with numerous individuals demanding an immediate ceasefire to alleviate the plight of Palestinians and facilitate the delivery of much-needed aid without obstacles.
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Many representatives from various countries within the United Nations also expressed their support for the suggested changes.
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The Deputy Prime Minister of Jordan pleaded for an end to the massacre.
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The Foreign Affairs Minister for the Observer State of Palestine stated that time is running out and there are two options: a fire spreading or a ceasefire.
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The Israeli Ambassador warned that if the Council continues to offer assistance to Gaza without taking into account the threat from Iran, it could lead to a bleak future for the world.
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7:30 PM
We must reconsider the only resolution to the conflict: Egypt.
The delegate from Egypt stated that this conflict has resulted in unprecedented levels of violence, unlike anything witnessed in the past hundred years. Currently, the international community is eagerly anticipating the verdict of the International Court of Justice regarding the legal matter brought forth by South Africa.
The international community’s top concern is bringing an end to this war, as it continues to affect neighboring regions. It is imperative to recognize the significance of the Red Sea in the global context and not view it as disconnected from the conflict in Gaza.
He emphasized the necessity of enforcing Council resolution 2720 and urged for the opening of all crossing points to distribute aid to the enclave. He also proposed the creation of a relevant mechanism led by Sigrid Kaag, the United Nations’ Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza.
He stated that a resolution must be reached for the current state of affairs, which has arisen due to a political deadlock.
“He stated that relying on isolated solutions is a recipe for disaster. Rather, we must reconsider the single solution.”
He mentioned the two-State plan and noted that Israel is the only one who disagrees.
He emphasized the importance of coming to a common agreement in support of justice.
7:06 PM
Pakistan states that the absence of a two-state resolution results in an ongoing conflict.
Pakistan’s Ambassador Munir Akram gives a speech at the 10th Emergency Special Session meeting regarding the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (photo from file).
The Ambassador of Pakistan, Munir Akram, expressed disappointment in the Security Council’s failure to prevent the war. He commended diplomatic initiatives aimed at promoting a two-State resolution, which is the only feasible path towards peace, not just for Israel and Palestine, but also for Israel and the entire Islamic world.
If this solution is not implemented, it will result in ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
He stated that with Israel’s unwavering resistance, the time has come to confront this blatant refusal of peace.
He requested a fresh resolution from the Security Council that would demand a complete end to hostilities, unrestricted humanitarian aid for those in Gaza, and international safeguards for the Palestinian population.
He stated that the renewed efforts towards peace should occur within the Security Council, with participation from all relevant parties.
If Israel persists in rejecting cooperation, the Council, General Assembly, and all UN Member States should take measures to hold it responsible.
He stated that there have been many previous instances in which measures could be taken to ensure Israel’s compliance.
6:55 PM
Germany’s objective is to achieve a sustainable ceasefire.
Ambassador Antje Leendertse of Germany strongly denounced Hamas for their brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks since October 7th, stating that Israel has the right to defend itself.
According to her, Hamas has been launching rockets at Israel and putting its own people in danger for over three months.
She demanded the release of all hostages and for the militants to surrender their weapons.
However, the ambassador also acknowledged that amidst a severe humanitarian crisis, “living conditions in Gaza are unbearable.”
She urged for more frequent and longer humanitarian breaks, better accessibility, and the opening of additional border crossings.
She stated that our common objective is to establish a sustainable end to hostilities that will ultimately result in long-term peace, through the implementation of a two-State solution.
6:44 PM
was the first country in the world to establish a system of racial segregation, known as apartheid, in the mid-20th century
During the mid-20th century, South Africa implemented a system of racial separation, referred to as apartheid, making it the pioneer in this form of discrimination.
The delegate from South Africa stated that in order for international law to maintain its credibility, it must be consistently enforced and not selectively applied.
He stated that we cannot selectively acknowledge the significance of international law and the UN Charter in certain scenarios, as if the principle of law only pertains to a privileged group.
Due to the difficult history of South Africa with a system of apartheid, it is important for us as Member States to follow international law and take appropriate action.
According to the speaker, South Africa chose to turn to global courts in order to seek retribution for the citizens of Palestine. They presented their case to the ICJ on January 11 and requested that the court issue interim measures, such as instructing Israel to cease its military actions in Gaza.
The speaker mentioned that numerous countries and regional groups have expressed their backing for South Africa’s actions against Israel. Additionally, a few states have shown interest in intervening in the proceedings following the provisional measures hearing.
6:36 PM
India expresses concern over the high number of civilians killed in the conflict, stating that the scale of these deaths is not acceptable.
According to Ravindra Raguttahalli, the Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the UN, the significant loss of innocent lives and resulting humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip due to the conflict is completely unacceptable.
The death of innocent people has been strongly denounced by us. It is crucial to stop the violence and fighting from escalating. It is essential to ensure that civilian lives are not lost in any situation of conflict.
He also mentioned that the crisis is greatly impacting the shipping industry and is a significant cause for concern. He also pointed out the potential effects on India’s energy and economic interests in the area.
“This fraught situation is not to the benefit of any party, and this must be clearly recognized.”
He restated India’s continued backing for the idea of two separate states and encouraged all involved parties to decrease hostilities, refrain from using violence, and avoid any actions that may cause conflict.
He stated that we strongly believe that the people of Israel and Palestine desire and deserve an enduring peace, which can only be achieved through direct and meaningful negotiations between both sides on final status issues, resulting in a two-State solution.
6:00 PM
Change UAE to be an inflection point.
According to Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, the Assistant Minister for Political Affairs from the United Arab Emirates, the level of pain and hardship in Gaza rivals some of the most difficult times in history.
She suggested a three-step strategy to resolve the conflict, beginning with a prompt humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. According to her, this moment has the potential to bring about significant change, but it could also mark a permanent point of no return.
Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates, speaks at a UN Security Council meeting about the current state of the Middle East, specifically regarding the issue of Palestine.
Additionally, shorter ceasefires could facilitate the delivery of essential humanitarian assistance and the release of hostages.
Finding pathways to similar agreements is essential, including the full implementation of Council resolutions 2712 and 2720, which must be fully implemented.
The third step should result in a resolution to this conflict that is based on the two-State solution.
She stated that we cannot go back to the unsuccessful status quo. In the past, our goal was to achieve the two-State solution through diplomatic efforts. However, now it must be the foundation of our efforts.
She stated that there is a responsibility to not only restrict the growing crisis in Gaza, but also a crucial need in order to have any chance of a successful future for the area.
5:40 PM
We will do everything in our power to achieve peace: Saudi Arabia
The Minister of Foreign Affairs for Saudi Arabia, Waleed El-Khereiji, stated that the main focus is to ease the suffering and resolve the crisis in Palestine. He also urged the Council to take action in order to secure an immediate ceasefire.
Waleed El-Khereiji, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Saudi Arabia, speaks at a Security Council session regarding the current circumstances in the Middle East, specifically the Palestinian issue.
He stated that tensions are on the rise in the region due to the aggressive actions of the Israeli military.
He stated that we had cautioned about the potential spread of this dispute and now we are witnessing military actions taking place in the Red Sea and Yemen.
We are committed to making every possible attempt to bring about peace in the region, and we urge the Security Council to take action to prevent Israel from continuing to violate international law.
“We should come to a mutual agreement on the ceasefire and acknowledge that Israel’s inflammatory behavior hinders progress towards establishing stability in the region, including within Israel.”
5:05 PM
Lebanon desires peace, not conflict.
The current challenges in the region highlight the significance of UNIFIL and the UN in safeguarding Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, according to Abdallah Bou Habib, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Emigrants of Lebanon.
Lebanon’s Foreign Minister, Abdallah Bou Habib, speaks at the Security Council meeting regarding the state of affairs in the Middle East, specifically addressing the issue of Palestine.
Regarding the state of affairs in Palestine, he expressed that “regrettably, we continue to seek short-term solutions each time the conflict resurfaces.” For many years, the area has not experienced peace or stability.
“Have we not gained any knowledge from our previous errors? Is it not about time we recognize that we cannot simply negate each other?” he inquired, pondering if the resolution would be passed down to future generations.
He stated that a crucial factor for achieving peace in the entire Middle East is finding a long-term solution, as well as implementing the two-State solution. Without justice for Palestinians, there can be no true peace.
“We implore all parties involved to not succumb to the Israeli ploy of escalating the conflict in the area,” he stated. “Lebanon seeks to avoid war. We have chosen peace and stability. Let us genuinely pursue peace before it becomes too late.”
The events of October 7th did not occur in isolation, according to the speaker. They could potentially occur again if a worldwide resolution is not reached. This presents a significant chance to promote peace, security, and prosperity, and we should take advantage of it as it may not present itself again.
5:00 PM
cannot be safe by using force
The use of force cannot guarantee security: Iran cannot rely on force for safety.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, speaks at the Security Council meeting about the current state of affairs in the Middle East, specifically addressing the Palestinian issue.
The Foreign Affairs Minister of Iran, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, stated that the US, who backs Israel, has hindered the Council’s ability to carry out its responsibilities. He also criticized the US for expressing concern about the escalation of tension in the region while simultaneously supporting Israel’s military actions and disregarding Yemen’s sovereignty.
He stated that rather than urging others to show restraint, it is the responsibility of the US to force the Israeli government to end the war and escape from the situation that they have created to involve the US in direct conflict.
The speaker stated that using force and committing genocide in Gaza will not bring security. The act of killing innocent civilians in Gaza and the West Bank cannot continue in the pursuit of “total destruction of Hamas” because that goal will never be achieved.
He stated that the US and UK committed a strategic error by launching an attack on Yemen. This could lead to the potential escalation of the conflict. He emphasized that the only way to find a lasting resolution to the Palestinian issue is by holding a referendum that includes the participation of all Palestinians.
A young male rides his bike through the highly affected Asqola area in Gaza City that has been heavily bombed.
4:55 PM
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It is time for a diplomatic solution: The solution for Turkey.
Hakan Fidan, Turkey’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, expressed disappointment that the international community has been unable to resolve the conflict in Gaza thus far. He further emphasized that the recent escalation in the region is extremely concerning.
According to the speaker, it is necessary for Israel to pursue a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. As members of the global community, we have a duty to end this war due to our historical role. He emphasized the importance of an immediate ceasefire, releasing prisoners, and maintaining access for humanitarian aid in order to achieve lasting peace.
“Short-term solutions will not be effective.”
The responsibility for shaping the future of Gaza lies solely with the Palestinians. Therefore, efforts should be directed towards establishing a self-governing Palestinian State and implementing a system to oversee the progress of peace between Israel and Palestine.
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4:45 PM
ian citizens protest against
Jordanian citizens are protesting against the ongoing massacre and calling for it to stop.
Jordan’s Deputy Premier Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Ayman H. Safadi, stated that time is running out and the Security Council still needs to call for a ceasefire and uphold its resolution on providing humanitarian aid.
Ayman Safadi, the Foreign Minister of Jordan, speaks at the Security Council meeting about the current state of affairs in the Middle East, which includes the issue of Palestine.
“Please put an end to this massacre,” he urged. “It is imperative that a legally binding resolution from the Security Council is implemented to bring an end to this suffering. Incremental measures will not lead to lasting peace.”
You all endorse the idea of a two-State solution, which is being undermined by the Israeli Government.
He stated that the political goals and extreme agendas of Israeli extremists should not hold the future of the region hostage.
The global community faces a pressing decision: either permit the Israeli government to perpetuate conflict in the region, or acknowledge the Palestinian State and pave the way for lasting peace.
4:30 PM
This should be the final battle in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine: Ecuador.
According to Ecuador’s Ambassador, José Javier De La Gasca, the main purpose of creating the UN over 78 years ago was to prevent the suffering and fatalities caused by wars. He emphasized the need for this current conflict to be the final one, stating this during a Council Chamber meeting.
He stated that our goal should be to establish the necessary circumstances for advancing towards a fair and lasting resolution for all involved parties, through peaceful negotiation and the recognition of two separate states.
“Every word or action that undermines the possibility of the two-State solution contributes to perpetuating the conflict and not to improving security. This should be evident to all, after so many years of violence and death.”
Hala, a mother who has been displaced and also works in the field of humanitarian aid, was forced to leave her Gaza residence and seek refuge in Rafah.
4:25 PM
China is advocating for the approval of granting full United Nations membership to Palestine.
Zhang Jun, China’s Ambassador to the United Nations, emphasized the importance of the meeting conveying a message of solidarity and coherence.
Even though there was a global agreement for a prompt ceasefire, the actions of permanent members using vetoes during discussions about previous resolutions for Gaza were obstructing all attempts to achieve it.
China’s Ambassador Zhang Jun speaks at the Security Council meeting about the current situation in the Middle East, specifically addressing the Palestinian issue.
He stated that the lack of political determination and will is the issue at hand and urged the Council to proactively prioritize restoring peace with a sense of urgency.
He stressed the importance of an immediate ceasefire as the top priority. The international community should make every diplomatic effort to promote peace and prevent the conflict from spreading throughout the Middle East.
The ambassador emphasized the need to revitalize the two-State solution in order to attain peace between Palestine and Israel.
He stated that it is not acceptable for Israel’s leadership to reject this solution.
To effectively raise pressure and materialize the situation, Palestine must be given complete membership at the United Nations. He stated that China will persist in urging the Security Council to take appropriate measures.
4:19 PM
The significance of a Two-State solution is greater now than ever before, according to Japan.
The Government of Japan’s Special Envoy, Uemura Tsukasa, expressed a desire for prompt measures to be implemented in order to reduce tensions.
He stated that we have a clear duty towards numerous vulnerable individuals and our past. We are currently observing the overflow into the Western Bank, Lebanon, the Red Sea, Yemen, and other regions, which is a major cause for alarm.
“We are at a pivotal point where it is crucial to prevent these conflicts from escalating into a larger regional confrontation. We must take action to prevent this from happening.”
He emphasized that a two-State solution is crucial in addressing these significant issues. He stated that both Israelis and Palestinians should be able to live a peaceful life without worrying about their safety and well-being. He also mentioned that Japan will strive to foster trust between the two sides through its own efforts.
During both favorable and unfavorable circumstances, Japan is ready to serve as a messenger of peace for Palestine, Israel, and the entire Middle East community, according to his statement.
4:12 PM
It is important to exercise caution and prudence in Mozambique.
Mozambican Ambassador Pedro Comissário Afonso speaks at the Security Council meeting about the current state of affairs in the Middle East, specifically regarding the Palestinian issue.
Pedro Comissário, the Permanent Representative of Mozambique, expressed the need for an urgent and immediate humanitarian ceasefire, a halt to hostilities, and ultimately a resolution to the ongoing conflict.
“In a volatile area such as the Middle East, where violence only leads to more violence, we must exercise caution and wisdom in all of our actions and decisions,” he stated.
“We must prevent potential political and security repercussions that could endanger global peace and stability.”
As representatives of the Security Council, it is our responsibility to unite and put an end to the crisis in Gaza,” he stated.
Our actions and impact on the warring groups hold immense significance. Each of us must do our part in promoting peace, safety, and steadiness in the Middle East.
3:52 PM
The US believes that a Two-State solution is the only way to ensure peace.
Uzra Zeya, the United States Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights, affirmed that the US is actively working towards reducing tensions and that her team is in full support of the United Nations and its efforts.
She informed ministers and ambassadors that the displacement of civilians in Gaza will not be allowed.
She stated that the US is still urging Israeli leaders to take further action in safeguarding civilians and following international laws. Additionally, she emphasized the need for increased protection for the UN and other humanitarian workers.
Uzra Zeya, a high-ranking official from the United States, speaks at a meeting of the Security Council regarding the current state of affairs in the Middle East, specifically addressing the issue of Palestine.
Ongoing events in the previous week demonstrate that resolving conflicts remains a significant obstacle, she added, expressing worries about the insufficient protection at medical facilities and other civilian structures.
She stated that the conflict was instigated by Hamas’s cruel attacks and stressed the urgency of resolving the hostage crisis. She also called on the Council to denounce Hamas’s actions and demand the release of all hostages in Gaza.
She stated that the US has consistently cautioned Iran against participating in actions that could escalate the conflict and will persist in taking measures to safeguard its personnel in the area.
She stated that the objective is to create a future where Gaza is not utilized for terrorist activities and emphasized that the establishment of two separate states, with Israel’s protection ensured, is the only solution to permanently cease this conflict.
3:46 PM
The suffering in Gaza is deemed ‘unacceptable’ by a UK minister.
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office’s Minister of State, Lord Tariq Ahmad, stated that the situation in Gaza is deteriorating every day and hundreds of thousands of people there are at risk of famine.
He stated that their suffering is not acceptable and our main goal should be to ease it.
Referring to Security Council resolution 2720, he also emphasized the importance of Israel increasing aid to Gaza, specifically through the opening of Ashdod Port and increasing access via the Kerem Shalom crossing on the Israel-Gaza border.
Lord Ahmad emphasized the importance of Council members collaborating to achieve a lasting ceasefire.
3:35 PM
Sierra Leone declares that there will be no forced relocation of Palestinians.
The Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, David Moinina Sengeh, is troubled by the Israeli military’s recent actions and the accompanying statements from certain Israeli politicians advocating for the removal of Palestinians by force.
The speaker stated their disapproval of the language used and firmly opposes any efforts to forcibly remove Palestinians from either the Gaza strip or the West Bank, whether it be temporarily or permanently. They also urge for those who have violated international law, specifically international humanitarian law, to be held accountable.
Expressing worry about the increasing conflicts in the West Bank, along the Lebanon Blue Line, and in other areas of the region, he stressed the importance of continuing to pursue diplomatic and political options in order to reach a fair and enduring resolution based on the principle of two states.
3:20 PM
Russia advocates for granting the Palestinian people the democratic right to self-determination.
Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s Foreign Minister, stated that the Council has not yet given a satisfactory response to resolve the conflict and prevent further destabilization in the Middle East. This is due to the United States’ stance of vetoing ceasefire resolutions, which allows for the continued collective punishment of Palestinians.
Expressing worry about the significant displacement of Palestinians, the ecological consequences of Israel’s bombing in Gaza, and the critical shortage of humanitarian assistance in the face of potential epidemics, he stated that Russia has delivered numerous tons of aid to the region and backs the initiatives of UN organizations operating there.
The Council’s lack of action has resulted in the escalation of conflict in the region, posing new threats to global security such as the US and UK’s military strikes on Yemen and Israel’s attacks on Syria.
Simultaneously, Western delegations are emphasizing the post-ceasefire period rather than the ceasefire itself. Therefore, the Council should persist in demanding a ceasefire. Any discussions about the future should be put on hold until a ceasefire is achieved.
He stated that the Palestinians should have the right to determine their own future and referred to this as “democracy,” as our Western counterparts often do.
He stated that whenever the United States engages in independent actions in the Middle East through individual negotiations, it ultimately leads to a more violent and hostile situation.
He said Russia would support an international conference which could come up with solutions, including measures to ensure security for Israel, and a system for collective security in the Persian Gulf and in the Middle East as a whole.
3:05 PM
Hold Israel accountable: Algeria
Ahmed Attaf, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria, stated that their delegation’s objective is to stop the violence in Gaza.
Therefore, it is imperative for humanity to address three challenges. The first challenge is to uphold and adhere to resolutions, laws, and legislation. The second challenge is to guarantee that no Member State believes it is entitled to preferential treatment or immunity.
Algeria’s Foreign Minister, Ahmed Attaf, speaks at a Security Council session about the current state of affairs in the Middle East, specifically regarding the issue of Palestine.
The third task is to pressure Israel to respect international laws and resolve the current crisis in Gaza.
He stated that it is necessary for international legal organizations to unite in order to hold Israel accountable. He commended South Africa for bringing a case to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and praised other countries such as Chile for filing a petition with the International Criminal Court (ICC). He urges these bodies to fulfill their duties.
At this time, it is crucial for all Security Council members to fulfill their duties. It is clear that the top priority is to establish a ceasefire and take prompt action towards achieving a two-State solution.
He stated that in order to preserve the fundamental principle of the two-State solution, we advocate for Palestine to attain full membership in the United Nations.
2:45 PM
Three principles: France
The French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Stéphane Séjourné, who currently holds the Council presidency for January, spoke on behalf of his country. He stated that his delegation will be guided by three principles in their actions within the Council in the upcoming days and weeks.
The first principle, according to the speaker, is to release all hostages without delay or conditions and to prioritize the well-being of the civilian population in Gaza by striving for a ceasefire. The second principle is that of fairness.
“We must restart the efforts towards peace with determination and trustworthiness. The solution is clear: two separate countries coexisting in peace and safety, with secure and acknowledged borders drawn from the 1967 borders, and both recognizing Jerusalem as their capital.”
The third principle is centered on taking responsibility for the potential risks of an escalation, according to his statement. He stressed the importance of actively working to prevent a major conflict in the region and further escalation of the current conflict.
2:34 PM
“We are committed to protecting our future.” – Israel
According to Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan, 18 years ago, Israel left Gaza. However, since then, the election of Hamas has transformed the area into a hub for warfare.
There are those who are promoting a lasting cessation of hostilities, which would result in Hamas retaining control. This would pose a threat to Israel’s survival as Hamas aims to destroy Israel, he explained.
Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan speaks at the Security Council session discussing the current state of affairs in the Middle East, specifically regarding the issue of Palestine.
According to the speaker, if Hamas were to surrender those responsible for the attack on Israel on October 7th and release the hostages, the war would come to an immediate end. He also stated that they will protect their future.
He explained that the spillover of the conflict was intentional, showing a picture of captured weapons and stressing that the Houthis would not have been able to attack ships in the Red Sea without support from Iran.
The speaker noted that Iran’s actions have impacted all nations in the region, as they are determined to expand their power. They also mentioned that Albania experienced a cyberattack from Iran.
He concluded that if the Council continues to provide aid to Gaza without taking into account the Iranian threat, it will lead to a dismal future.
2:25 PM
cannot reword
“It is time for Palestine to be held accountable.”
The Palestinian Observer State’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Riyad Al Maliki, stated that the current conflict is a deliberate attempt to cause the most harm possible to the Palestinian people by utilizing three elements.
Initially, the most brutal and uncontrolled bombing operation since the end of World War II has caused widespread devastation and imposed a harsh blockade that has deprived the people of basic necessities for survival. This has resulted in famine, thirst, sickness, poverty, and hopelessness. Additionally, there has been a forced relocation of the Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip on a scale and pace never before seen in recent history.
According to the speaker, Israel’s bombings have caused devastation and destruction in various places such as homes, hospitals, schools, mosques, churches, and UNRWA shelters. These bombings show a lack of consideration for civilian lives, resulting in a high death toll of over 25,000, including 11,000 children. Additionally, more than 63,000 people have been injured and thousands are now permanently disabled due to these attacks. Sadly, over 7,000 people have also been buried under the rubble.
Riad Al-Malki, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Palestine, speaks to the Security Council about the current situation in the Middle East, specifically regarding the Palestinian issue.
He stated that the global community is urging for a halt in hostilities. He emphasized the need for responsibility and organizing a global peace summit with the goal of enforcing international regulations and carrying out UN decisions with determined involvement from all countries, groups, and the UN.
It is now time to recognize Palestine.
He stated that it is now appropriate to acknowledge and accept the State of Palestine as a member of the UN.
“We did not receive the power to reject Israel’s entry into the United Nations 75 years ago; Israel does not possess the power to reject the admission of Palestine 75 years later,” he stated, emphasizing that the global agreement for two separate states in this region must be honored through both words and actions.
He stated that time is running out and emphasized that there can be no more excuses for prolonging or blocking progress. He presented two options: either the situation will continue to escalate like a wildfire or there will be a cessation of hostilities. He also mentioned that the current state of affairs goes against the values of freedom, justice, and peace.
“We must ensure that it comes to an end immediately and that it never occurs again. Never again.”
2:20 PM
Two-State solution, ‘the only way’
The Secretary-General of the United Nations expressed worry about the violence occurring outside of Gaza. He acknowledged an increase in injuries in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, as well as the exchange of gunfire along the “Blue Line” between Israeli and Lebanese armed forces. He also mentioned the escalating situation in the Red Sea and recent attacks in Iran and Syria.
During his speech, Mr. Guterres highlighted the critical significance of the solution involving two separate states.
He stated that the Israeli Government’s continual refusal of the two-State solution, despite strong pleas even from its allies, is not acceptable.
Denying the Palestinian people their right to statehood will only prolong the conflict, which has become a significant danger to worldwide peace and security.
He stated that the Palestinians’ right to establish their own sovereign nation must be acknowledged by all, and any rejection of the two-state solution by any party must be strongly opposed.
The only way to fulfill the rightful desires of Israelis and Palestinians is through the two-State solution.
In conclusion, he called for solidarity among nations to promote a productive peace negotiation.
“In the past few decades, the idea of a two-state solution has faced constant criticism and dismissal. However, it still stands as the only viable path towards achieving a fair and lasting peace in Israel, Palestine, and the surrounding region,” he stated.
2:15 PM
The UN leader stated, “It is evident that, despite the efforts I have outlined, the current circumstances imposed on the people of Gaza make it nearly impossible for humanitarian aid operations to be successful. Those aiding them are facing significant challenges.”
He emphasized the importance of ensuring safety on the ground, as well as providing telecommunications equipment for convoys, armored vehicles, necessary spare parts for infrastructure, additional crossing points, simplifying verification processes, and putting an end to obstructing the delivery of aid.
I am once again calling for an urgent humanitarian ceasefire. This will guarantee that necessary aid is delivered to the necessary areas, assist in the liberation of hostages, and reduce tensions in the Middle East,” he emphasized.
2:10 PM
‘Appalling humanitarian situation’
Mr. Guterres emphasized that the current situation in Gaza is causing widespread destruction at an unprecedented pace, affecting the entire population. He firmly stated that there is no justification for subjecting the Palestinian people to collective punishment.
The Security Council meeting on the current state of the Middle East, specifically the situation with the Palestinian issue, was addressed by Secretary-General António Guterres.
Despite facing immense challenges, the UN and its partners are working tirelessly to provide aid during the winter months when disease and hunger are rampant and needs are increasing.
2:06 PM
Guterres demands the release of hostages.
The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has once more called for the prompt and unconditional release of all hostages being held by Palestinian militants in Gaza.
According to him, there can never be a valid reason for deliberately harming or abducting innocent civilians, as well as using sexual violence or launching rockets without discrimination towards them.
He observed that Israel suggested a two-month ceasefire in return for a gradual release of the remaining hostages in the Strip.
He stated that he will continue to do his best, within his limited abilities, to work towards their release.
A bakery in Gaza resumes operations following a 50-day shutdown, thanks to assistance from the World Food Programme.
2:05 PM
The gathering has begun, led by the French foreign minister Stéphane Séjourné, as their country currently holds the presidency for the month of January. The United Nations leader is seated to his right. He warmly greeted the Secretary-General, emphasizing the seriousness of the global crisis.
2:00 PM
The Council Chamber is filled with diplomats and delegates from the New York missions who are socializing before the meeting begins, which appears to be a few minutes away.
1:30 PM
The Secretary-General, António Guterres, will provide an update during the meeting. Senior foreign ministers and ambassadors from the 15 members of the Council, along with representatives from other nations, will share their perspectives on the expanding conflict.
Sergey Lavrov, the Foreign Minister of Russia, Stéphane Séjourné of France, Hakan Fidan of Türkiye, and Tariq Ahmad of the UK are all attending the high level open debate in New York.
Mr. Séjourné is scheduled to lead the meeting, as France currently holds the rotating presidency of the Security Council for the month of January.
The discussion on promoting peace and security in the Middle East is occurring as the conflict extends beyond Gaza, with frequent clashes between Israeli and Hezbollah troops in Lebanon and escalating airstrikes from the US and UK on Houthi rebels in Yemen. The rebels have been targeting ships in the Red Sea in support of Palestinian militants.
As the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to worsen and attempts to secure the release of hostages in return for a temporary ceasefire face challenges, demands for an end to the violence in the territory are increasing.
Approximately 70 individuals are listed as speakers and the meeting is expected to run late into the night.
“We will be providing live coverage of the deliberations on this page and on X (previously known as Twitter) at @UN_News_Centre.”
To read about the recent Security Council meetings discussing the crisis, click on either of these links. For a comprehensive recap of the Council’s discussions, visit the UN Meetings Coverage page, available in both English and French.
Original: “The United Nations has called for urgent action to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Yemen, where nearly 80 per cent of the population – some 24 million people – require humanitarian assistance and protection.”
Reworded: The UN has urged for immediate measures to be taken in response to the growing humanitarian emergency in Yemen, where approximately 80% of the population, or 24 million people, are in need of humanitarian aid and protection.
