Ambassador Michel Xavier BIANG, Permanent Representative of the Gabonese Republic to the UN, said that the hope generated by the Council’s adoption of resolution 2712 (2023) on 15 November is shrinking daily as fighting continues, adding to the terrible human and material toll in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.
All parties must exercise restraint and respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, he said, also underscoring the need for a greater commitment to accountability for serious violations of international law. The collective punishment of civilian populations is unacceptable and contrary to international humanitarian law. There should be unimpeded, safe, and sustainable access to the delivery and distribution of essential goods and services to millions of people in need.
Noting the recent agreement on hostages, he called for their unconditional release as well as a broadened scope for the agreement to include hope for children.