Highlights

• Khaled Khiari, the Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East at the United Nations Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA), addressed the Security Council and conveyed deep worry about the ongoing issue of Israeli settler violence in the occupied West Bank.

• He also mentioned heightened tensions in the broader Middle East area, including daily crossfire along the Blue Line that divides Lebanon and Israel, airstrikes in Syria, and increased tensions in the Red Sea.

• Marwan Muasher, the Vice President of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, and Itay Epshtain, a Special Advisor at the Norwegian Refugee Council, also provided updates to ambassadors. They expressed concern about the pressing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the potential for the conflict to escalate.

• The members of the Security Council expressed worry about how the ongoing conflict is affecting innocent Palestinians and the tense situation in the West Bank. They called on Israel to put an end to violence by settlers and ensure those responsible are held responsible.

• Several people emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire in order to facilitate humanitarian aid. They also stressed the significance of a two-state resolution.

• To access comprehensive information about the Security Council, please go to the UN Meetings Coverage page.

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1:37 PM

Meeting adjourned

After all speakers had presented their statements, the President of the Security Council ended the meeting.

1:31 PM

The prevalence of violence, fatalities, and arrests has increased in Ecuador.

The UN Ambassador and Security Council President for December, José Javier De La Gasca, spoke on behalf of Ecuador and stated their strong condemnation of the terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas on October 7th.

He demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and stated that the severity of the violence in Gaza has caused events in other areas to be overlooked.

However, the situation in the West Bank has worsened since October, with an increase in negative developments. The level of violence, as well as fatalities and arrests, has also risen.

He emphasized the importance of holding accountable those who commit violent attacks, denouncing all acts of terrorism and stating that security personnel should exercise caution at all times.

The Ambassador from Ecuador expressed his strong disagreement with any one-sided actions that hinder peace, such as building and expanding settlements, taking away land from Palestinians, demolishing their homes, and displacing them.

1:12 PM

has gone broke

The United Kingdom has experienced financial strain due to a high number of civilian casualties.

Barbara Woodward, the UK’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN, emphasized her nation’s dedication to ensuring Israel’s safety and the importance of addressing the danger presented by Hamas.

She expressed concern over the high number of civilian casualties and emphasized the importance of Israel adhering to international laws regarding the treatment of non-combatants. She also stressed the need for a clear distinction to be made between terrorists and innocent civilians.

Additionally, Ambassador Woodward emphasized the pressing importance of advancing towards peace due to the current situation in the occupied West Bank. He called for Israel to promptly cease settler violence and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

She urged Israel to uphold its promises and stop all construction of settlements in the Palestinian territory under occupation. She emphasized that allowing more settlements will only escalate tensions in the West Bank.

The Ambassador urged both Israel and the Palestinian Authority to show a true dedication to a two-State solution through their policies.

She cautioned about the possibility of the conflict spreading and emphasized that a major clash between Israel and Hizbullah would have disastrous consequences for Lebanon and surrounding areas.

1:03 PM

Gaza is not a safe location, according to China.

Ambassador GENG Shuang, China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, stated that the prolonged duration of the conflict would result in further casualties for both parties.

He cautioned that the current conditions in Gaza do not provide a secure location, hindering the efforts of humanitarian workers to deliver assistance to those in need.

According to him, Israel’s building in the West Bank and increased attacks have undermined the possibility of a two-state resolution. He emphasized that Israel needs to stop building settlements and hold those responsible accountable.

He emphasized the significance of enforcing the two-State solution and ensuring the basic rights of the Palestinian people.

Ambassador Geng expressed our support for Palestine’s complete inclusion in the UN and the prompt resumption of direct talks between Palestine and Israel.

12:42 PM

All countries, including France, are required to abide by international law.

The French Ambassador and Permanent Representative, Nicolas de Rivière, conveyed their country’s “grave worry” regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

He stated that the primary focus should be on promptly initiating a lasting truce, with the assistance of both regional and global allies. Additionally, he emphasized the urgent need to provide humanitarian assistance to civilians in the enclave, while also ensuring unrestricted access to these resources.

He emphasized the importance of putting into action the two recent resolutions passed by the Security Council.

The Ambassador emphasized that France believes International Humanitarian Law should always be followed and upheld by everyone. He also stated that his country will continue to actively participate in humanitarian aid for the civilians in Gaza.

The speaker emphasized that the Security Council should not only focus on treating the effects of the crisis, but also take action to secure the prompt and unconditional release of all hostages. Additionally, they urged the 15-member council to denounce the terrorist acts carried out by Hamas and other organizations on October 7th, which also included acts of sexual violence.

“He expressed frustration over the Council’s failure to accomplish this, emphasizing the significance of the two-State solution.”

12:29 PM

predicted

In 2023, Russia predicted that the West Bank will experience its most violent year.

The Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Russia to the UN, Vassily Nebenzia, stated that his nation is closely monitoring the highly strained circumstances in the West Bank, amidst the ongoing crisis in Gaza.

He stated that Israeli security forces and aggressive settlers are still carrying out actions that not only endanger a potential humanitarian crisis, but also have the potential to escalate the situation to other areas in the region.

The author observed growing conflicts in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen. Meanwhile, Egypt and Jordan are at risk of experiencing a significant influx of Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank.

Nebenzia, the ambassador, stated that Israeli military and settlers have caused the deaths of 302 Palestinians, with 79 of them being children, in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since October 7th.

In total, there were 504 individuals. According to the speaker, the year 2023 was the most violent for those living in the West Bank. He also stated that Israel had been conducting numerous security operations in this area before the terrorist attack on October 7.

Mr. Nebenzia strongly denounces the terrorist attacks on 7 October, stating that they were carried out without any connection to the supposed terrorist threat that Israel has used as a reason for their unprecedented operation in Gaza. This operation has resulted in the deaths of over 21,000 individuals, including 144 UN workers.

12:28 PM

of Syrian conflict

The Secretary-General of the United Nations expresses great concern about the continued spread of the Syrian conflict.

The representative for the United Nations Secretary-General has released a statement regarding the Middle East.

According to a statement from Stéphane Dujarric, the Secretary-General is greatly troubled by the escalating tensions between Israel and Hamas and other factions in Gaza. The Secretary-General fears that this conflict could have catastrophic effects on the surrounding area.
 

The longer the conflict in Gaza persists, there is a continued risk of a larger regional conflict due to the potential for escalation and misjudgment from various parties.
 

The declaration additionally mentioned that the increasing aggression in the West Bank, such as heightened actions by Israeli security forces, a significant amount of deaths, and incidents of violence and assaults against Israelis by Palestinians, is deeply concerning.

Regional stability impacted

The constant shooting between Israel and Lebanon along the Blue Line poses a potential for a larger conflict and could have an impact on the stability of the region. The UN Secretary-General is also growing concerned about the potential consequences of ongoing attacks by armed groups in Iraq and Syria, as well as the increasing frequency of Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea. These incidents have intensified in recent days.
 

“The Secretary-General emphasizes the importance of all parties exercising self-control and promptly taking measures to reduce tensions in the area,” the statement stated, emphasizing his plea for “all members of the global community to utilize their influence to prevent a worsening of the situation in the region.”
 

The Secretary-General restates his plea for an urgent ceasefire for humanitarian reasons in Gaza, as well as the immediate and unconditional freeing of all hostages, according to the statement.

12:20 PM

The loss of any non-military individual is a devastating event: United States

John Kelley, the US Minister Counsellor and Political Coordinator at the Permanent Mission to the UN, expressed his country’s shared concern over the rise of violence by extremist settlers in the West Bank and the record number of Palestinian fatalities in both the West Bank and Gaza.

The speaker stated that 2023 has been the most fatal year for Palestinians in the West Bank. He emphasized that the loss of any civilian, whether they were a victim of the Hamas attack on October 7th or a casualty in the West Bank or Gaza, is a tragic event.

He stated that the United States is emphasizing to the Israeli government the significance of stopping extremist settler violence and taking action to investigate and prosecute those responsible for violent acts.

Mr. Kelley also noted that the US will continue to implement visa restrictions, announced on 5 December, targeting individuals believed to have been “involved in or meaningfully contributed” to undermining peace, security and stability in the West Bank.

The US strongly believes that promoting settlements in the West Bank goes against the goal of establishing a Palestinian State and a two-State solution. This also applies to any actions that disrupt stability in the West Bank, such as Israeli settlers attacking Palestinians and Palestinians attacking Israelis.

The speaker emphasized that the best path towards peace is a two-State solution, where Israelis and Palestinians coexist peacefully.

12:14 PM

The possibility of a two-state solution is in danger, according to the UAE.

Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, the UN Ambassador and Permanent Representative for the United Arab Emirates (UAE), stated that the current briefings emphasize the importance of the meeting regarding the sustainability of the two-State solution and overall stability in the Middle East.

She stated that in this most recent battle of a conflict that has lasted for decades, it is evident that we are facing a crucial decision. She acknowledged that Security Council members, such as the UAE, will need to make daring and potentially uncomfortable choices.

She cautioned that the alternative would be a “hellscape” similar to Gaza, stretching into the West Bank, Israel, Lebanon, and other areas of the Middle East.

In 2023, Gaza showcased the ability of people to cause unimaginable suffering to fellow humans,” she stated, acknowledging that the conflict is driven by radical factions.

She proceeded to mention the dire circumstances of civilians living in the enclave, as they continue to be bombarded by Israeli forces. This not only puts the lives of Palestinians at risk, but also those of Israeli hostages who are still in the area.

She stated that in light of this devastation, we have all been reminded of the importance of reaching a two-state solution as a means of moving forward. She urged for immediate and decisive measures to ensure its progress.

11:52 PM

The northern region of Israel has reached a critical juncture and is facing a situation from which there may be no turning back.

Gilad Menashe Erdan, the Israeli Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, has raised concerns about the lack of an “urgent briefing” by the Security Council in response to attacks on Israeli civilians and civilian locations.

He stated, “Are these attacks simply an overflow or is this violence inexplicably happening on its own? It should be evident that genocidal terrorists are deliberately attempting to kill Israeli citizens each day.”

The individual pointed out that the Council readily stands in solidarity with civilians in the Middle East, unless they happen to be Israeli. They questioned why the Security Council remains silent when innocent Israeli civilians are attacked.

“Why have you not denounced the missile attacks originating from Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen?” he asked, cautioning that the situation in northern Israel is “approaching a critical tipping point.”

Israeli Ambassador Erdan stated that innocent Israelis are being targeted daily. He emphasized that if these attacks continue, Israel will take action to put an end to these acts of terror. He also warned that if the attacks persist, the situation could escalate and potentially result in a full-scale war.

11:35 AM

The unintentional harm of Palestinian civilians is not an acceptable consequence.

Majed Bamya, the Deputy Permanent Observer for the Observer State of Palestine, spoke to the Security Council and emphasized that the loss of Palestinian civilian lives should not be dismissed as a mere consequence of war.

He stated that the Israeli attack deliberately targets and kills innocent civilians as a strategy. The dire humanitarian situation is not a result of the war, but rather a tactic used by Israel to coerce and displace people.

He proceeded to mention that the Council has requested the safeguarding of civilians and urgent, secure, unimpeded, and increased humanitarian entry to provide aid across the Gaza Strip, as well as adherence to legal regulations. The Council has also opposed forced relocation.

He stated that the Council has been unable to request a prompt end to all actions, despite numerous attempts, and pointed out that Israel has responded with disrespect and contempt.

“Why are they able to commit such large-scale murders without consequences?” he asked, also stating that “it’s because they have never been held responsible.”

He stated that this is the reason they admit to their wrongdoings, this is why they take away our existence, our property, our materials, our finances, our history, our current situation and our upcoming prospects in the open.

11:28 AM

The Norwegian Refugee Council has accused all involved parties of displaying “reckless disregard”.

Itay Epshtain, a Senior Advisor for the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), briefed Council members on the legal analysis behind the NRC’s approach to addressing the humanitarian crisis.

“Some document grave transgressions that have been committed and are still ongoing, while others pertain to planned acts of violence that should be stopped by this esteemed Council,” he stated, acknowledging that all parties – armed groups in Palestine and Israel – have displayed careless indifference towards the principles of international law, including the fundamental regulations of international humanitarian law, which they are obligated to adhere to at all times, but have instead violated.”

He stressed the NRC’s condemnation of Hamas’ violent attacks on innocent Israeli citizens and their ongoing demand for the prompt release of all hostages. The organization also advocates for the proper treatment of Palestinian detainees in accordance with global standards.

The speaker stated that the assurance of legal protection should also bring an end to the Israeli attack, which leaves innocent citizens in Gaza with nowhere to seek safety. This attack has already resulted in the tragic deaths of numerous civilians, including women and children.

11:15 AM

It is up to us to decide: Marwan Muasher.

Marwan Muasher, Deputy Prime Minister of Jordan and Vice President for studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, expressed interest in discussing the initial aftermath of the war and the potential for a peaceful resolution.

Prior to that, he noted that the top priority should be to bring an end to the conflict in Gaza.

He stated that the Palestinians have endured a great deal of suffering and emphasized that no international or humanitarian laws support the current carpet-bombing of innocent civilians.

The international community is consistently asking, “Who will govern Gaza after Hamas?” However, this is the wrong question to ask because it implies that this is the ultimate goal. Any policy based on this question will result in negative consequences.

He cautioned that the ongoing violence against innocent people on both the Israeli and Palestinian sides, the devastation of Gaza yet again, the possibility of 1.5 million more Palestinian refugees, and the potential for forced mass relocation demonstrate the futility of clinging to ineffective approaches from the past.

Mr. Muasher encouraged Council members to thoughtfully consider the components of a potential plan, in which all settlement activity is halted and new elections are held in Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank.

“He suggested considering alternative options if the international community deems the current approach too impractical. He also acknowledged that the international community bears some responsibility for the current situation.”

He contended that a decisive choice must be made to resolve the conflict and establish a sustainable two-state solution, or else the world will face not just the issue of occupation but also the more complicated problem of Apartheid.

He stated that the decision is up to us.

11:08 AM

The potential for spillover is still significant, according to a United Nations representative.

Khaled Khiari, the Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East at UN DPPA, updated Council members on the concerning state of affairs in the region. He emphasized that there are multiple interconnected conflicts occurring, contributing to the ongoing deterioration of the situation.

He observed that there were “intense” ground operations by Israel and clashes between Israeli forces and Hamas and other groups in most parts of Gaza. Meanwhile, Hamas and other Palestinian factions persist in launching rockets from Gaza into Israel.

He stated that civilians on both sides are still suffering the most from this conflict.

Mr. Khiari repeated the Secretary-General’s plea for an urgent ceasefire to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He also cautioned that the ongoing conflict has the potential to spread to neighboring regions and have devastating effects, as there are many parties involved.

He alerted the Council members about ongoing occurrences of firing along the Blue Line separating Lebanon and Israel, which could have a severe impact on the stability of the region.

He stated that there have been more and more attacks on areas where civilians live, resulting in casualties for civilians on both sides of the Blue Line. At the same time, the number of deaths among those fighting has been increasing.

Mr. Khiari mentioned incidents of US bases being targeted in Iraq and Syria, leading to the US carrying out airstrikes against suspected groups in those areas. He also brought up reports of Israeli airstrikes in Syria and tensions in the Red Sea.

11:05 AM

The meeting has been convened.

José Javier De La Gasca, the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Ecuador, who is currently presiding over the Security Council for the month of December, initiated the meeting.

Israel and the Observer State of Palestine have both been invited to the meeting.

The meeting will be briefed by Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General for the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs for the Middle East, Asia, and the Pacific; Marwan Muasher, Vice President for studies at Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and former Deputy Prime Minister of Jordan; and Itay Epshtain, Special Advisor for the Norwegian Refugee Council and Senior Consultant for Humanitarian Law and Policy.

10:35 AM

The United Arab Emirates (UAE), a non-permanent member of the Security Council, called for the urgent meeting, and a senior UN official from the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) is expected to brief ambassadors.

The gathering comes after a decision made by the Security Council last week, urging an increase in the distribution of assistance to individuals in the Gaza Strip. The decision was approved by 13 votes in favor, with the US and Russia choosing to abstain.

Strained situation in the West Bank under occupation.

Earlier in the month, Tor Wennesland, who serves as the UN Special Envoy for the Middle East Peace Process, expressed serious worries about the rising tensions in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, which are under occupation.

On December 19, when addressing the Security Council, he mentioned increased violent conflicts between Palestinians and Israeli security forces, mainly due to Israeli operations. These conflicts have resulted in a significant number of deaths and arrests.

Mr. Wennesland also voiced concern about deadly assaults perpetrated by Israeli settlers on Palestinians and by Palestinians on Israelis in the occupied West Bank and Israel.

He emphasized the importance of holding all those responsible for violence accountable and ensuring they are promptly brought to justice.

The situation of humanitarian aid in Gaza

In the meantime, the situation of the people in the area is still very severe.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported today that pregnant women taking refuge in shelters in Gaza are experiencing thirst, malnutrition, and inadequate healthcare. According to Gazan health officials, half of these women are affected. Additionally, newborns are at risk due to a shortage of vaccinations, and half of the displaced children are facing problems with dehydration, malnutrition, and illness.

Approximately 1.9 million people in Gaza, which makes up 85% of the population, have been forced to leave their homes due to Israel’s response to Hamas’ deadly attacks on southern Israel on October 7th.
 

Source: news.un.org