UN official tells Security Council that ‘horror’ in Gaza has no end in sight
Briefing the Ambassadors on Security CouncilMuhannad Hadi, Deputy Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, outlined the impact of the conflict, now in its second year.
“As winter approaches, the horror in Gaza continues without end,” he said. speak.
Sparked by terrorist attacks last October by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups in southern Israel, the conflict is believed to have claimed the lives of more than 44,000 Palestinians and 1,700 Israelis and Palestinians. foreign.
Tens of thousands more have been injured and more than 100 Israeli hostages remain in Gaza in terrible conditions.
The situation remains serious in Gaza
Mr. Hadi emphasized the devastating impact of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) operations in northern Gaza, which resulted in mass displacement and many deaths, including women and children.
Humanitarian support for people in need was also seriously affected, when United Nations aid convoys were looted by Palestinian armed groups.
A convoy of 109 United Nations food trucks was robbed on November 16, resulting in the loss of 97 trucks. Days later, more than 20 individuals were reported killed in operations targeting looters, led by Gaza authorities.
“Attacks on humanitarian and military convoys must stop immediately. Law and order must be restored and people must have safe access to vital aid, Hadi said.
Violence escalates in the West Bank
Mr. Hadi further informed the Security Council about increasing violence in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem.
Thirty-two Palestinians have been killed in Israeli security operations over the past few weeks, and Israeli settler attacks on Palestinian communities, especially during the olive harvest, have escalate.
He said Palestinian gun attacks and car rammings continued, although no deaths were reported in the occupied West Bank or Israel.
He added that Israel’s push for settlements and demolition of Palestinian-owned structures also continues, with some ministers “now openly calling” for the annexation of the occupied West Bank.
“I reiterate that the annexation is a violation of international law and must be firmly rejected,” he noted.
Impact on the wider area
Mr. Hadi also noted the impact of the conflict in Israel, where civilians continue to face attacks from both Hamas and Hezbollah.
“Unfortunately, the situation remains serious across the region. Israeli military operations continue across the Green Line with Lebanon, as does Hezbullah’s rocket fire toward Israel, including an attack this weekend,” he said.
He welcomed ongoing diplomatic efforts to achieve a cessation of hostilities and called on all parties to accept a ceasefire “based on the full implementation of Security Council provisions.” resolution 1701.”
Call for a ceasefire
Mr. Hadi also warned that developments across the occupied Palestinian territory show “the imminent risk of losing the frameworks” that we have operated since 1967 and 1973 when the Security Council passed resolutions. resolution “to lay the foundations for a just and lasting peace”. ”.
“We continue to call for an immediate ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and de-escalation of tensions around the region,” he added, calling for political frameworks governance and security can help resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and end the conflict between Israel and Palestine. occupation and achieving a two-state solution.
To prevent further escalation, he called on the international community to renew its commitment to diplomacy and support measures that ensure the long-term safety and security of both Israelis and Palestinians.
“We need a ceasefire; we need to get the hostages out; “Right now, we need life-saving support to be delivered safely,” Mr. Hadi added.
Tor Wennesland (on screen), Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, briefs the Security Council.
Final thoughts
Also speaking, United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Tor Wennesland reflected on the challenges facing the region and the efforts of the international community to resolve the crisis is going on.
He reiterated the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the provision of vital humanitarian aid as he acknowledged difficulties.
“We have protests on the ground and in the Council about how difficult the current situation is…I am extremely disappointed after my visit to Gaza and seeing that despite all efforts… there is still no can provide aid and assistance in the necessary quantities to civilians living in Gaza.”
Marking his final appearance at the official meeting of the Security Council, Mr. Wennesland thanked Council members, the United Nations Secretariat and all colleagues for their cooperation and support. Surname.
In conclusion, he emphasized the need for sustained international engagement in finding a just and lasting solution to the crisis.
