27 July 2023
Thank you, Madame President.
And I thank ASG Khiari for the information provided.
The recent developments in the West Bank continue to be troubling and disturbing.
We are almost out of words to deplore the pervasive cycle of violence and its consequences. But we will never be out of will and desire to call for the need of the political horizon to be restored as soon as possible.
Because the situation is not sustainable and if not properly and quickly addressed, it can only lead to more violence and hopelessness.
We have said it many times and we reiterate it: Only a clear perspective of peace for both sides, Israelis and Palestinians, will help reduce violence, bloodshed and never-ending suffering. And for it to happen, parties must first commit seriously and resolutely to de-escalation. Just like they did in Aqaba and Sharm el Sheikh, where they committed to restraint unilateral steps. But commitments take real meaning not just because they are voiced or written, but only if they are kept and implemented.
We condemn any and all acts of indiscriminate violence against civilians and recognize the right of Israel to self-defense. We reiterate that every security operation should strongly abide by the principle of proportionality and be in full respect of International Humanitarian Law.
We call on the Palestinian youth to distance themselves from instigation of violence and extremism. Youth should lead the change on the ground for themselves and for the future of Palestinian generations. Everyone should condemn terrorism and violent extremism.
We strongly condemn the settler’s violence against Palestinian civilians and call for full investigation and accountability for those responsible.
Here, I would like to reiterate our concern for the impact the increase of violence is having on women and children.
We also reiterate our concern on the plans to advance settlements. They contradict international law and are an impediment to peace efforts. We call for the implementation of Security Council Resolution 2334 and the strict observance of the international law. All unilateral steps that obstruct peace and the viability of the two-state solution must be withdrawn.
Let me conclude by recalling that the end of the conflict in the Middle East requires genuine and sustained efforts for peace, development and prosperity for all; it requires respect for rights, freedoms and dignity, which in our view, can be achieved through the two-state solution, a secure Israel and a viable and democratic Palestine, living side by side, with full and equal rights.
It represents the best prospect for the stability, peace, security and prosperity for over 400 million people of the wider region and a precious contribution to peace and stability worldwide.
Thank you.