Madame President, in November of last year, this Council adopted Resolution 2803, which conveyed a robust message of global backing for President Trump’s comprehensive 20-point plan concerning Gaza.
As noted by High Representative Mladenov, significant progress has been achieved, which we acknowledge. However, the success of these efforts hinges on the actions taken by the involved parties.
It is imperative that all parties honour their commitments. The ceasefire must be upheld, with Israel adhering to the obligations outlined in the 20-point plan, which includes a gradual withdrawal of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) from Gaza. Concurrently, Hamas is expected to fulfil its promise to dismantle its arsenal and terror infrastructure. Furthermore, a credible transition to Palestinian-led governance and security across the entirety of the Gaza Strip is essential.
We urge the Palestinian Authority to implement the necessary reforms to assume its responsibilities effectively. The anticipated legislative elections in November and national elections planned for the following year are crucial developments. These elections must be conducted in a manner that is free, fair, and inclusive.
Humanitarian Challenges and Aid Resumption
Resolution 2803 also necessitates the complete resumption of aid to Gaza and the restoration of vital infrastructure. Nevertheless, the humanitarian crisis persists, with the situation remaining critically dire.
It is unacceptable for the standard to be averting starvation. Currently, 59% of Gaza’s population experiences levels of food insecurity that are classified as crisis or worse; additionally, 1.9 million Palestinians remain displaced. Fuel shortages are severely impacting hospitals and essential water and sanitation services.
The Israeli government must lift excessive restrictions on aid, ensuring that all necessary supplies, including fuel and engine oil, can enter Gaza consistently and in substantial quantities. All border crossings should be reopened, and a review of the dual-use list is imperative to facilitate the passage of crucial aid supplies. Moreover, Hamas must cease obstructing humanitarian operations, as evidenced by their actions in July when they interfered with a UN warehouse and food distribution centre, resulting in the disruption of life-saving assistance and assaults on truck drivers.
The alarming trend of intimidation, violence, and obstruction that endangers humanitarian workers must come to an end. The sanctity of UN facilities must be upheld; thus, the recent forcible entry and reported seizure of UNRWA’s Kalandia Training Centre in Jerusalem is deeply troubling. UN bodies, including UNRWA, as well as NGOs, should be able to operate safely and effectively in accordance with international humanitarian law.
Accountability and Violence in the Region
Accountability is crucial when these standards are not upheld. It is appropriate that the Israeli military has initiated a criminal investigation into the tragic deaths of five-year-old Hind Rajab, six of her family members, and two paramedics in Gaza earlier this year. However, the decision to refrain from criminal action regarding the lethal strikes on a World Central Kitchen convoy in April, which resulted in the deaths of seven staff members, including three British nationals, is unacceptable. Their families are entitled to justice, accountability, and clarity from the Israeli government.
Turning to the West Bank, UNSC Resolution 2334 clearly states that Israeli settlements in this territory are illegal. We urge the Israeli government to immediately retract construction tenders for the E1 settlement project, as these unilateral actions only serve to hinder peace efforts. Such developments risk further dividing the West Bank, isolating East Jerusalem, and exacerbating instability.
Escalating Violence and Economic Pressures
As Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband has emphasised, we cannot passively accept moves that threaten the viability of the Two-State Solution. Unfortunately, we have witnessed the devastating repercussions of unprecedented violence. Reports indicate that eighty Palestinians and three Israelis have lost their lives in the West Bank this year alone. We are appalled by the recent attacks by settlers in Taybeh, the ongoing siege of homes in Qusra, and the tragic killing of a 17-year-old in Sa’ir.
The Israeli government has stated that addressing extremist violence is a priority; however, the situation in Qusra illustrates that the current strategies are ineffective. More decisive action is necessary to combat settler violence, prevent actions that facilitate such behaviour, and ensure accountability for those responsible.
Moreover, restrictions on the Palestinian economy are pushing it towards a precipice, with over $6 billion in revenues withheld since May 2025, and $5.8 billion trapped in banks, jeopardising essential banking services. This situation threatens public services, the banking system, and the very viability of the Palestinian Authority.
Madame President, there exists substantial international support for the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 2803. However, it is crucial that the involved parties fulfil their commitments and refrain from actions that undermine peace. They must work towards providing both Palestinians and Israelis the future they deserve—one where a secure Israel coexists peacefully alongside a sovereign and viable Palestinian state encompassing Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.