Аргентина отказалась от вступления в БРИКС

Милей отклонил приглашение стать участником БРИКС

Буэнос-Айрес,

 29 декабря, 2023, 18:00 — 

Президент Аргентины Хавьер Милей заявил, что страна не будет присоединяться к БРИКС, сообщил 29 декабря портал Infobae.

По данным портала, об этом Милей письменно уведомил президента России Владимира Путина и председателя КНР Си Цзиньпина. Получили сообщения также премьер-министр Индии Нарендра Моди, президент Бразилии Луис Инасиу Лула да Силва и президент ЮАР Сирил Рамафоса.

Милей направил свои сообщения несколько дней назад, объявив, что страна выходит из многостороннего форума БРИКС.

Как сообщало ИА Регнум, Аргентина подала заявку на вхождение в БРИКС в июне прошлого года. На тот момент президентом республики был Альберто Фернандес.

На саммите БРИКС 24 августа 2023 года Рамафоса объявил, что Аргентину и ещё пять стран решили принять в объединение. Полноценное членство их в БРИКС должно начаться с нового года.

В ноябре в Аргентине прошли президентские выборы. Победивший на них Милей заявил, что первой страной, куда он нанесёт визит, будут США, а второй — Израиль. Он вступил в должность президента 10 декабря. После этого Милей начал реформы, вызвавшие протесты.

Президент России Владимир Путин на «Итогах года» 14 декабря, комментируя идею Милея перейти на доллар, назвал эти планы признаком утраты латиноамериканской республикой суверенитета.

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Conflict ( war)

9254TH MEETING (PM)

SC/15551

30 DECEMBER 2023

As Russian Federation’s War on Ukraine Continues, Senior United Nations Official, Briefing Security Council, Reiterates Appeal to Stop Attacking Civilians

A senior United Nations official today condemned all attacks on cities, towns, and villages in Ukraine and the Russian Federation during the second Security Council meeting in 24 hours on the subject, as aerial bombardments between the two countries escalate.

Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific in the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, told the 15-member Council that as feared the two-year cycle of death on full display during the Russian Federation’s attack on Ukraine yesterday, which at the last count killed at least 39 Ukrainian civilians, has escalated overnight.

According to Russian Federation authorities, as a result of Ukrainian missile and rocket strikes on the city of Belgorod, which lies 30 kilometres from the Ukrainian border, at least 18 civilians, including two children, were killed, he said.  At least 100 others, including 15 children, were reportedly injured. 

Russian Federation authorities are also reporting separate overnight Ukrainian drone attacks in several regions of the Russian Federation. Meanwhile, Ukrainian authorities reported new overnight Russian drone attacks targeting the Kherson region. 

“As the war continues, we will see more Ukrainian and Russian civilians killed and injured,” he warned, reiterating the Secretary General’s urgent appeal to stop attacks on civilian centres, residential areas, and energy infrastructure. 

In the ensuing discussion among Council members, many once again voiced their deep alarm at the increasing attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure.  Delegations urged a de-escalation of the fighting and an immediate return to diplomatic efforts towards a cessation of hostilities. 

Ghana’s delegate, recalling that less than 24 hours ago the Council met following the Russian Federation’s aerial attacks on many regions of Ukraine, said that it is deeply unfortunate that the two neighbouring countries have chosen military logic for dispute resolution.  “What may seem bad today could get worse if the parties persist with the military approach,” she cautioned. 

Council members now have a chance to give an objective assessment of the terrorist attack by the Kyiv regime against the Russian city of Belgorod, said the delegate from the Russian Federation.  To increase the number of victims of this terrorist attack, cluster munitions were used, including Vampire missiles produced by Prague. As a result, 18 people were killed, including three children, and 108 people were injured.  British and American consultants were directly involved in organizing this terrorist attack, he continued, adding that responsibility for it also lies with the countries of the European Union, which continue to pump up the Ukrainian ruling elite with weapons. 

Ukraine’s delegate said that the Council convened yesterday, today, and “should be ready to meet tomorrow, the day after tomorrow — every day that the Russian war against Ukraine lasts”.  As long as this war, unleashed by the “Kremlin dictator”, endures, the toll of death and suffering will continue to grow. Unfortunately, the number of casualties of yesterday’s missile and drone attack by the Russian Federation on Ukraine has increased.  And since then, several cities and villages in Ukraine have come under Russian fire. “There is only one way to stop the human suffering and destruction caused by the war — to stop the war itself,” he stressed. 

The representative of the United States said that Russian Federation President Vladimir V. Putin is solely responsible for the senseless loss of lives.  “It is his war of choice,” he stressed.  And as long as Moscow persists, Washington, D.C., will support Ukraine’s efforts to defend itself. 

France’s delegate said that this war has not stopped causing suffering to civilians.  He pointed to Moscow’s strikes of 29 December, stressing that the cost paid by Ukraine’s civilian population is unbearable.  The Russian Federation should measure the costs of this war for itself, he said, adding:  “If its troops were not present on Ukrainian soil, if it did not daily shell Ukrainian cities and villages, we would not be meeting this afternoon.”

Briefing

KHALED KHIARI, Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific, Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, said that as feared the two-year cycle of death and destruction on full display during the Russian Federation’s large-scale attack on Ukraine yesterday, which at the last count killed at least 39 Ukrainian civilians, has further escalated overnight.  According to Russian Federation authorities, as a result of Ukrainian missile and rocket strikes on the city of Belgorod, which lies 30 kilometres from the Ukrainian border, at least 18 civilians, including two children, were reportedly killed.  At least 100 others, including 15 children, were reportedly injured.  Attacks on locations in Belgorod city centre reportedly resulted in damage to civilian infrastructure, including the regional government office and the medical college of Belgorod State University.

The strikes were reported as among the deadliest cross border attacks on the Russian Federation since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, launched in violation of the Charter of the United Nations and international law, he went on to say.  The Russian military authorities also reported separate overnight Ukrainian drone attacks in several regions of the Russian Federation, including the Moscow region.  Meanwhile, Ukrainian authorities reported new overnight Russian drone attacks targeting the Kherson region.  The United Nations is “not in a position” to independently verify the various reported attacks or casualty figures. 

“As we meet again today, reports of new air raid alerts are also coming in from across Ukraine,” he said, warning:  “As the war continues, we will see more Ukrainian and Russian civilians killed and injured.”  As warned, the latest series of attacks is a stark reminder of the very real dangers of further escalation and spillover of the war.  He reiterated the Secretary-General’s appeal for an end to attacks on civilian population centres, residential areas, and civilian and energy infrastructure. He condemned all attacks on cities, towns and villages in Ukraine and in the Russian Federation.  Attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure are unacceptable.  “The war must come to an end,” he stressed.

Statements

VASSILY A. NEBENZIA (Russian Federation) said the citizens of the Czech Republic, as well as other Western countries, the vast majority of which are not hostile towards his country, should understand where their money is spent and what crimes their Governments are complicit in. Brussels along with Washington, D.C., and London, as well as most countries of the European Union, are accomplices in the crimes committed by the gang in Kyiv.  Today, Council members have a chance to fulfil their duty and give an objective assessment of the terrorist attack by the Kyiv regime against the peaceful Russian city of Belgorod a few hours ago.  The city centre and residential areas were fired at with cluster munitions from multiple launch rocket systems from the border town of Volchansk in the Kharkov region.  One of the targets of the Ukrainian missiles was the Dynamo sports complex in Belgorod, where at that moment gymnastics classes were being held for children; the other was an ice rink in the city centre, with parents with children present.  Belgorod State Technological University also came under attack from Ukrainian terrorists. 

To increase the number of victims of the terrorist attack, cluster munitions were used, including Vampire missiles produced by Prague. “This is a deliberate act of terrorism that was targeting civilians,” he emphasized.  As a result of a pre-planned and carefully prepared shelling of the central part of the city, 18 people died, including three children, and 108 people were injured.  British and American consultants were directly involved in organizing this terrorist attack, he said, adding that responsibility for it also lies with the countries of the European Union, which stubbornly and irresponsibly continue to pump up the Ukrainian ruling elite with weapons.  He rejected the narrative that none of this would have happened had Moscow not started its special military operation in February 2022. His country launched the operation to stop what the Kyiv regime was doing in Donbas — eight years of shelling its cities and towns with impunity, he stressed. 

NICOLAS DE RIVIÈRE (France), recalling that the Russian Federation attacked Ukraine on 24 February 2022, said that this war has not stopped causing suffering to civilians.  He pointed to Moscow’s massive strikes on 29 December, stressing that the cost paid by Ukraine’s civilian population is unbearable.  Noting that the Russian Federation should measure the costs of this war for itself, he added:  “If its troops were not present on Ukrainian soil, if it did not daily shell Ukrainian cities and villages, we would not be meeting this afternoon.”  He called on the parties to the conflict to respect international law, while urging Moscow to stop violating Council’s resolutions — that it voted in favour of — by obtaining weapons from Iran and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. 

MOHAMED ISSA ABUSHAHAB (United Arab Emirates) noted the Council was meeting for the second time in 24 hours following a series of air strikes in Ukraine and the Russian Federation, with today’s drone attacks on the latter killing 14 and injuring more than 100 — voicing particular alarm over the killing of two children and wounding of 15. With civilian sites including a school hit, adding to the 2,600 schools damaged since the war began, he reiterated that international humanitarian law must be upheld, with civilians and civilian objects protected.  Unless the conflict is halted, the new year brings the prospect of more civilians killed and wounded and families separated, further destabilizing European and global security.  He urged the parties to pursue a negotiated settlement, ending the war in a manner that preserves Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

THOMAS PATRICK PHIPPS (United Kingdom) said that there are hundreds of thousands of Russian Federation soldiers in Ukraine.  There is not a single Ukrainian soldier in the Russian Federation.  If the Russian Federation wants someone to blame for the deaths of Russians in this war, it should start with President Vladimir V. Putin, who is responsible for sending thousands of Russian servicemen and women to bear needless death. In 2022, President Putin claimed his invasion was to stop a genocide in Donbas.  The International Court of Justice rejected this and ordered the Russian Federation to immediately end its invasion.  The Russian Federation’s real objectives were revealed soon after with its attempt to illegally annex further Ukrainian territory.  Having failed to defeat Ukraine militarily, the Russian Federation has now turned to indiscriminate attacks on civilians.  The death toll from these from this week’s attacks across Ukraine, the largest since the war started, continues to rise.  The United Kingdom stands resolutely with Ukraine and will continue to do so. 

IRIYA TAKAYUKI (Japan) condemned all violations of international humanitarian law.  “We should not lose sight of why on earth we are gathering here today.”  This situation would not have happened in the first place and would not have if the Russian Federation had not started its illegal aggression against Ukraine.  As stated by the overwhelming majority of the UN General Assembly, the Russian Federation’s aggression is a clear violation of international law, including the Charter. Japan will continue to stand with Ukraine until a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine is realized. He urged the Russian Federation to withdraw immediately and unconditionally from the internationally recognized borders of Ukraine. 

DARREN CAMILLERI (Malta) recalled that yesterday, the Russian Federation carried out another barbaric attack on several cities across Ukraine, adding to the tragic loss of life and misery the civilian population of that country has been forced to endure for 675 days.  “As Russia continues in its desperate efforts to justify the unjustifiable, and to try to present itself as the victim, we continue to stress that wars have devastating, long-lasting, and far-reaching consequences,” he said. Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Ukraine keeps deteriorating, with the most vulnerable, including women and children, paying the highest price.  The winter months and freezing temperatures will only compound existing hardships.  Accordingly, he called on the Russian Federation to immediately cease all hostilities and unconditionally and completely withdraw from Ukraine.  Until then, Ukraine has the right to defend itself from Moscow’s aggression, he added.

JOHN KELLEY (United States) said that his country mourns every Ukrainian life cut short by the Russian Federation’s aggression, adding:  “We have not lost sight that ordinary Russian civilians are bearing a brunt of the Kremlin’s brutal war.”  Noting that Vladimir V. Putin is responsible for the senseless and unnecessary loss of lives, he underscored:  “This is his war.  It is his war of choice.”  He further stressed that as long as Moscow persists, Washington, D.C., will support Ukraine’s efforts to defend itself.  Calling for protection of all civilians on all sides in every conflict, he emphasized that the Russian Federation alone is responsible for starting and prolonging this war.

GUSTAVO SÉNÉCHAL DE GOFFREDO JUNIOR (Brazil) said the deaths recorded in Belgorod illustrate once again the suffering imposed on civilians on both sides of the front line.  It is essential and urgent to de-escalate, create conditions for dialogue and begin negotiations for a lasting peace, taking into account the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the legitimate security concerns of all parties.  The increasing flow of weapons into the conflict will only fuel more violence and will not contribute to ending it.  “The end to the war is the only way to prevent such incidents from recurring week after week,” he stressed, urging the parties to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law and to engage in the search for a peaceful solution to the crisis.  Article 33 of the UN Charter outlines the tools to achieve this goal, he recalled.

ANDRIS STASTOLI (Albania) noted that yesterday in the Council, the Russian Federation explained that its 158 missiles did not cause any harm to anyone in Ukraine and that 39 innocent victims were cause by Ukraine’s defense systems.  “One must be totally immune to absurdity to believe such a high degree of fallacy,” he stressed, as according to the UN count, there are more than 20,000 civilian casualties caused by the Russian Federation in Ukraine, with Moscow not only expressing no concern, but blaming victims.  Expressing regret over every civilian casualty, whether Russian or Ukrainian, he affirmed that the core issue is that Moscow wanted, planned and executed the war and by all accounts is solely responsible for its consequences.  He vehemently opposed the Kremlin’s sinister objective to dismantle Ukraine and subjugate its people.

ADRIAN DOMINIK HAURI (Switzerland) said that today’s attacks on Belgorod are yet another tragic consequence of the Russian Federation’s war against Ukraine.  Calling on the parties to strictly respect international humanitarian law and not to target civilians, he pointed to one of Moscow’s “heaviest waves” of missile and drone attacks in several regions of Ukraine since the start of the military aggression, which took place on 29 December, causing numerous fatalities.  In addition to direct causalities, these attacks exacerbate the suffering of the population, particularly in the harsh winter conditions, he noted, observing that the Russian Federation continues its strikes against Ukraine.  “These attacks must stop,” he stressed, underscoring the importance of de-escalation to avoid further suffering of civilians.

EDWIGE KOUMBY MISSAMBO (Gabon) said that the war in Ukraine has caused far too many deaths, destruction of civilian infrastructure and international environmental and economic consequences.  Reiterating that the population and civilian infrastructure must not be targeted, she expressed concern over the increasing number of drone attacks that risk extending the theatre of hostilities. She also said that the attack on Belgorod as well as the earlier attacks on Kyiv, Kharkiv and other Ukrainian cities reflect deadly violence that could extend the scope of fighting.  “It’s time to end the war in Ukraine,” she underscored.

TARCÍSIO BALTAZAR BUANAHAGI (Mozambique) said that the facts are clear enough:  the longer the conflict persists, the more severe the consequences become. Furthermore, he urged all parties in this conflict to fulfil their responsibilities to safeguard civilians and rigorously abide by all relevant instruments of international humanitarian law, including pertinent Security Council resolutions such as 1265 (1999) and 1296 (2000).  He expressed support to a diplomatic and negotiated solution between the two neighbouring countries.  “It is our sincere hope that the contending parts will embrace diplomacy and dialogue as a means of resolving this worrying conflict,” he stressed. 

KHALILAH HACKMAN (Ghana), recalling that less than 24 hours ago the Council met following the Russian Federation’s aerial attacks on many regions of Ukraine, said:  “We are gathered once again in this Chamber, upon reports of attacks by Ukraine against the Russian city of Belgorod.”  Noting that the two neighbouring countries have chosen military logic for dispute resolution, she cautioned against this approach.  “What may seem bad today could get worse if the parties persist with the military approach,” she added, stressing that civilians and civilian infrastructure should not be targets of war.  Calling for de-escalation and urgent diplomatic efforts towards cessation of hostilities, she urged the parties to avail themselves to a peaceful dispute settlement.

GENG SHUANG (China) stated that the flurry of Council deliberations in recent days over grievous civilian casualties, so close to the end of the year, “leaves us sad and distressed” over the drawn-out Ukraine crisis.  There are no winners in conflict and war, he stressed, as it causes nothing but profound suffering to innocent people and damage to global security.  He renewed the call for an early end to hostilities, with all international stakeholders stepping up diplomatic mediation with greater urgency, further noting that China will continue to stand on the side of peace and dialogue and remain committed to facilitating peace talks.

JOSÉ JAVIER DE LA GASCA (Ecuador), Council President for December, spoke in his national capacity to recall that this 15-member organ was established with the primary responsibility of maintaining international peace and security.  On 6 May 2022, the Council expressed its deep concern for the maintenance of peace and security in Ukraine; that day, it further reiterated that all Member States have assumed the obligation to settle their international disputes by peaceful means.  In this context, he called on all parties to refrain from attacking the civilian population or civilian infrastructure and to respect the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution.  Expressing regret about all loss of human life, particularly that of children, since the beginning of this conflict, he underscored that the military aggression against Ukraine must end and warned about the possibility of escalation and spillover of the conflict.

Mr. NEBENZIA (Russian Federation), taking the floor again, said that if in 2013 Ukraine did not have an anti-Government coup that was supported and “blessed” by the West, if in 2014 the Government that took power did not begin the war in Donbas against its own citizens, and if the Minsk Agreements were implemented, nothing that happened in 2022 would have occurred. “Russia does not target peaceful Ukrainian civilians, no matter how many times we keep repeating it,” he stressed, noting that it only targets military infrastructure. 

SERHII DVORNYK (Ukraine) said that the Security Council convened yesterday and is meeting again today.  “And you should be ready to meet tomorrow, the day after tomorrow — every day that the Russian war against Ukraine lasts,” he said.  As long as this war, unleashed by the “Kremlin dictator”, endures, the toll of death and suffering will continue to grow. Yesterday, the delegation of Ukraine informed the Council of the devastating outcomes of the missile and drone attack by the Russian Federation which happened that day.  Unfortunately, the number of casualties of that attack has increased.  Today, seven more bodies were retrieved from the rubble of a storage facility hit yesterday by a Russian missile, and as Ukraine is still recovering from yesterday’s horrendous strike, new waves of Russian terror persist. 

Just hours ago, the Russian Federation again terrorized Kharkiv with S-300 missiles, hitting a residential building and a hotel, he said. Since this morning several cities and villages in Ukraine have come under Russian fire, including in the Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv, Sumy, Chernigiv and Kherson regions.  “There is only one way to stop the human suffering and destruction caused by the war — to stop the war itself,” he stressed.  “And it is baffling that such a simple idea eludes the members of the Russian delegation identifying themselves as diplomats,” he said. The Russian Federation should make the only just decision, as outlined by the UN General Assembly resolution of 23 February 2023 titled “Principles of the Charter of the United Nations underlying a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine”.  Once Russia’s bloody war is over, there will be no more human suffering and no more civilian casualties in Europe

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9521ST MEETING (AM)

SC/15548

29 DECEMBER 2023

Adopting Resolution 2721 (2023), Security Council Requests Secretary-General Appoint Special Envoy for Afghanistan

The Security Council today adopted a resolution requesting the Secretary-General to appoint a Special Envoy for Afghanistan, provided with robust expertise on human rights and gender, as it also stressed the critical importance of a continued presence of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).

Adopting resolution 2721 (2023) (to be issued as document S/RES/2721(2023)), the 15-nation Council by a vote of 13 in favour to none against, with two abstentions (China, Russian Federation), reiterated its full support to UNAMA and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General.  It also took positive note of the independent assessment on Afghanistan (document S/2023/856) and encouraged Member States and other relevant stakeholders to consider the implementation of its recommendations, especially in regards to increasing international engagement in a more coordinated manner.

By the text, the Council also affirmed that the objective of this process should be an Afghanistan at peace with itself and its neighbours, fully reintegrated into the international community and meeting international obligations.  Further, it recognized the need to ensure the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of Afghan women in the process throughout.  As well, it welcomed the Secretary-General’s intention to convene the next meeting of the Special Envoys and Special Representatives on Afghanistan and requested that the UN chief brief the Council on the outcome of these consultations and discussions within 60 days.

Speaking before the vote, Yamazaki Kazuyuki (Japan), also on behalf of the United Arab Emirates, the co-penholder of the file, said that the Council deliberated multiple times on the issue of the situation in Afghanistan over the past year and that the draft resolution is the product of those extensive consultations.  The resolution expresses the Council’s strong determination to facilitate a new strategy that addresses a wide range of issues, including the need to engage more coherently and in a more structured manner with Afghanistan.  “By adopting this resolution, we will also demonstrate to the people of Afghanistan — including relevant authorities, women, girls and civil society — that the international community remains committed to a peaceful, stable, prosperous and inclusive Afghanistan,” he said, adding that the country continues to face enormous challenges.

Speaking after the vote, Lana Zaki Nusseibeh (United Arab Emirates) commended the collaborative nature of the work done on the text, and paid tribute to Afghan people — both in the country and in the diaspora — stating:  “I would like to salute their spirit.”  However, she expressed deep concern about the Taliban’s move to ban girls from attending school.  Afghanistan’s people, but most notably its women and girls, are increasingly isolated. Afghanis are also struggling to access basic goods and services like food, health care and education.  “Let today signal the beginning of the end for all of that,” she declared, adding that compromises are required and the resolution sets forth a practical approach.

Washington, D.C., stressed Lisa Browne (United States), is committed to promoting peace and stability in Afghanistan, but remains concerned over the Taliban’s policies against Afghan women and girls.  This has only moved the Taliban further away from being able to normalize relations with the international community.  She welcomed the resolution’s request to set up a Special Envoy for Afghanistan, emphasizing that such a post would help coordinate work to achieve progress in the country.

Adding to that, Barbara Woodward (United Kingdom) said Council members should seize the momentum of the independent assessment with the hope of shaping Afghanistan’s “current negative trajectory”.  She also noted that the Taliban has a responsibility to meet its international commitments, including by immediately reversing the policies restricting women’s rights and fundamental freedoms.  She encouraged all parties, including Afghan and international stakeholders, to take forward the independent assessment’s recommendations and to work towards an Afghanistan that is at peace with its people, its neighbours and the international community.

The vote showed the common resolve within the Security Council to address the situation in Afghanistan, observed Harold Adlai Agyeman (Ghana), also speaking for Gabon and Mozambique.  Reaffirming his commitment to the sovereignty, territorial integrity and national unity of Afghanistan, he emphasized that the resolution is not merely procedural.  In this regard, he called on the Taliban to reverse its discriminating policies against Afghan women and girls and urged frank and robust discussions and coherent efforts to ameliorate the political, security and human rights situation on the ground.  “The road ahead for Afghanistan is fraught with challenges.  But it is a road we must traverse with them,” he said, adding that “the rights, hopes and dreams of the Afghan people must not be ignored”.

However, Geng Shuang (China) stressed that the actions of the Council and the Secretary-General — including appointments of Special Envoys — should be based on thorough communication with the country concerned.  Therefore, the Council’s follow-up to the independent assessment should be done in full communication with the Afghan authorities.  Forcibly appointing a Special Envoy without regard for the country’s views may not only lead to a situation in which the Special Envoy would not be able to function but may also heighten confrontation between the international community and the Afghan authorities.  As Council members are divided on the follow-up implementation of the independent assessment’s report, and as the Afghan authorities still have reservations, it “seems hasty” to force the adoption of a resolution. Noting that his delegation abstained, he emphasized that Afghanistan’s history demonstrates that externally imposed solutions will end in failure.

Nevertheless, Anna M. Evstigneeva (Russian Federation), while noting that her country abstained, pointed to the many ideas that her delegation is in sync on.  Because it is imperative to maintain peace and stability in Afghanistan, the international community must therefore move towards pragmatic consultations with Afghanistan’s de facto authorities that would help restore many essential aspects of the country, including its recommitment to rebuilding and development.  She also commended efforts to ensure work is being done on countering terrorism and drug threats.  However, she warned against attempts to force Afghanistan to “dance under someone else’s tune”.  Doing so would not help the country progress.  She also called on Western donors to refrain from tying aid to certain political goals.

Underlining the usefulness of a unified strategy in Afghanistan, Nicolas De Rivière (France) said the independent assessment in front of the Council was helpful.  Recognizing the importance of further structuring the political and humanitarian coordination of the international community in Afghanistan, he said that France will contribute to a further road map to help reintegrate an Afghanistan that respects its international obligations.  Nonetheless, he condemned the systematic persecution of the Afghans by the Taliban, adding that his country will continue to follow the situation closely to ensure the five demands, in particular respect for women’s rights, continue to guide international actions

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UPDATING LIVE: UN Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East

United Nations

 

Security Council meets on the situation in the Middle East

29 December 2023

Peace and Security

The UN Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, amid rising tensions in the occupied West Bank and while the relentless fighting in the Gaza Strip continues to exact a terrible toll on civilians. A senior UN official warned of the risk of a spillover of the conflict with “devastating consequences” for the entire region.

Live video feed of the meeting.

Follow this page and @UN_News_Centre on X, formerly Twitter, for updates.

11:52 PM

Gilad Menashe Erdan, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Israel to UN, questioned why an “urgent briefing” of the Security Council is not called when Israeli civilians and civilian sites are attacked.

“Do these attacks sound like a mere spillover, is this violence occurring magically on its own. Is it not clear genocidal terrorists are seeking to murder Israeli citizens every single day,” he said.

“This Council is quick to show solidarity with civilians across the Middle East so long as they are not Israelis,” he added, asking why the Security Council is silent when innocent Israeli civilians are targeted.

“Why have you not condemned the rocket fire from Lebanon, Syria and Yemen,” he said, warning that the situation in northern Israel is “reaching the point of no return.”

“Every day, innocent Israelis are under attack. If these attacks persist, Israel will ensure that these acts of terror stop,” Ambassador Erdan said, reiterating that if the attacks continue, “the situation will escalate will escalate and may lead to a full scale war.”

11:35 AM

Majed Bamya, Deputy Permanent Observer of the Observer State of Palestine addressed the Security Council, stating that the killing of Palestinian civilians is “not a collateral effect” of war.

United Nations

 

Majed Bamya, Deputy Permanent Observer of the Observer State of Palestine, addresses the Security Council.

“This Israeli assault relies, by design, on mass and indiscriminate killing of civilians. The humanitarian catastrophe is not the consequence of the war, it is a tool employed by Israel to pressure people and force them out,” he said.

He went on to note that the Council has called for the protection of civilians and for immediate, safe, unhindered and expanded humanitarian access to deliver assistance throughout the Gaza Strip, for respect for the laws of laws, and that it has rejected forced displacement.

“All of which require an immediate ceasefire that this Council has been prevented to call for, repeatedly,” he said, noting that Israeli has reacted with “disregard and disdain.”

“Why are they getting away with murder at this unprecedented scale,” he said, adding “because they were never held accountable.”

“That is why they confess to their crimes, that is why steal our lives, our land, our resources, our money, our past, our present and our future in broad daylight,” he said.

11:28 AM

All parties showing ‘reckless disregard’: Norwegian Refugee Council

Itay Epshtain, Senior Advisor at the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), informed Council members of the legal observations that underpin the NRC’s response to the humanitarian crisis.

“Some capture serious violations that have been perpetrated and continue to occur, others relate to premeditated atrocities that should be prevented by this august Council,” he said, noting that all parties – Palestinians armed groups and Israel – have shown reckless disregard for the norms of international law, including the basic rules of international humanitarian law, “the very rules they must comply with in all circumstances, breached.”

He emphasized that the NRC has condemned the atrocious violence launched by Hamas against Israeli civilians and continues to call for the immediate release of all hostages. It also calls for humane treatment of Palestinians detainees, in keeping with international law.

“The same legal certainty must also mean a halt to the Israeli offensive from which ordinary Gazans have no refuge before it claims the lives of even more civilians, many of them women and children,” he said.

11:08 AM

Risk of spillover ‘remains high’: UN official

Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East at UN DPPA, informed Council members that the situation in the Middle East is alarming and continues to deteriorate, including “several interconnected theatres conflict”.

United Nations

 

Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General, briefs the Security Council.

He noted “intense” Israeli ground operations and fighting between Israeli forces and Hamas and other groups in most areas of Gaza, as Hamas and other Palestinian factions continue to fire rockets from Gaza into Israel.

“Civilians from both sides, particularly in Gaza strip currently, continue to bear the brunt of this conflict,” he said.

Reiterating the Secretary-General’s call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, Mr. Khiari warned that the risk of regional spillover of this conflict with potential devastating consequences for the entire region “remains high” given also a multitude of actors involved.

He informed Council members of “continued daily exchanges” of fire across the Blue Line between Lebanon and Israel, posing a “grave risk” to regional stability.

“Increasingly, there have been strikes on civilian areas, with civilian casualties, on both sides of the Blue Line, in addition to a rising number of fatalities among combatants,” he added.

Mr. Khiari also noted attacks on US bases in Iraq and Syria, with the US conducting some airstrikes against groups suspected of these actions in Iraq and Syria. He also cited reports of Israeli air strikes inside Syria, as well as tensions in the Red Sea. 

11:05 AM

Meeting called to order

José Javier De La Gasca, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Ecuador, which holds the Presidency of the Security Council for December, called the meeting to order.

Israel has been invited to the meeting, as has the been the Observer State of Palestine.

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

10:35 AM

The United Arab Emirates (UAE), a non-permanent member 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 meeting follows a resolution adopted last week by the Security Council calling for a scale-up in aid deliveries to civilians in the Gaza Strip. The resolution passed with 13 votes in favour, and the US and Russia abstaining.

Tensions in occupied West Bank

Earlier this month, Tor Wennesland, the UN Special Envoy for the Middle East Peace Process, voiced “deep concerns” over escalating tensions in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem.

Briefing the Security Council on 19 December, he noted “intensified armed exchanges” between Palestinians and Israeli security forces, predominantly in the context of Israeli operations, which led to exceedingly high levels of fatalities and arrests.

Mr. Wennesland also expressed alarm at lethal attacks carried out by Israeli settlers against Palestinians and by Palestinians against Israelis in the occupied West Bank and Israel.

“All perpetrators of violence must be held accountable and swiftly brought to justice,” he stressed.

Humanitarian situation in Gaza

Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in the enclave remains dire.

Earlier today, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) cited reports from Gazan health authorities that half of all the pregnant women seeking safety in shelters suffer from thirst, malnutrition and a lack of healthcare. There is a lack of vaccinations for newborns and one in every two displaced children faces dehydration, malnutrition and disease.

Some 1.9 million Gazans, or 85 per cent of the enclave’s population, have been internally displaced since the start of Israel’s retaliation following Hamas’ deadly terror attacks in southern Israel on 7 October

https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/12/1145182

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Rebuild trust and restore hope in 2024: UN chief’s call

UN Photo/Mark Garten

 

UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

28 December 2023

Peace and Security

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for global unity to make 2024 a year for “building trust and hope” following the immense suffering, violence, and climate chaos that characterized 2023.

“Humanity is strongest when we stand together. 2024 must be a year for rebuilding trust and restoring hope,” expressed Mr. Guterres in his New Year’s message.

“Let’s resolve to make 2024 a year of building trust and hope in all that we can accomplish together,” he urged, concluding with warm wishes for a happy and peaceful New Year

Secretary-General's New Year Message

Humanity in pain, planet in peril

In his message, the UN chief reflected on the pain and suffering afflicting humanity.  

Conflicts persist, claiming tens of thousands of civilian lives, many of them women and children. Millions have been driven from their homes, facing hunger and disease.

At the same time, “the planet is peril”, Mr. Guterres said, marked by record-breaking temperatures and worsening impacts of climate change.

“2023 has been a year of enormous suffering, violence, and climate chaos […] 2023 is the hottest year on record; people are getting crushed by growing poverty and hunger; wars are growing in number and ferocity,” noted the Secretary-General.

‘We must come together’

Mr. Guterres highlight the scarcity of trust and emphasized that “pointing fingers and pointing guns lead nowhere.”

“Humanity is strongest when we stand together […] We must come together across divides for shared solutions – for climate action, for economic opportunity and a fairer global financial system that delivers for all,” said Mr. Guterres.

Addressing discrimination and hatred poisoning relations between countries and communities, he stressed the importance of ensuring that new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, serve as forces for good.

“The United Nations will keep rallying the world for peace, sustainable development and human rights,” affirmed the UN chief.

“Let’s resolve to make 2024 a year of building trust and hope in all that we can accomplish together.”

https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/12/1145137

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Турция начала военные операции на севере Ирака

23 декабря 2023, 21:36

Турецкая армия после гибели двенадцати своих военнослужащих сообщила о проведении военных операций на севере Ирака против запрещенной в стране Рабочей партии Курдистана (РПК). Об этом 23 декабря пишет РИА Новости.

Военные были убиты на севере Ирака в ночь на субботу в результате нападения со стороны боевиков РПК. Президент Турции Реджеп Тайип Эрдоган заявил, что страна «не потерпит наличие террористических образований на севере Сирии и Ирака». Кроме того, еще шестеро военнослужащих погибли и один был ранен в столкновении с боевиками РПК в районе операции «Коготь-замок». Турки же убили 13 бойцов противника.

Сейчас проводятся «внезапные воздушные операции против выявленных целей».

РПК в Турции считается террористической организацией. Ее боевики имеют базы на севере Ирака и Сирии, поэтому Анкара периодически проводит воздушные и наземные операции против них.

https://www.fontanka.ru/2023/12/23/73053560

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Несколько стран Евросоюза не поддержали гарантии безопасности для Украины

24 декабря 2023, 02:38

Несколько стран Евросоюза не поддержали гарантии безопасности для Украины

Шесть стран ЕС не поддержали декларацию о гарантиях безопасности для Киева

Global Look Press

Заместитель руководителя офиса президента Украины Владимира Зеленского Андрей Сибига назвал шесть стран Евросоюза, которые не присоединились к декларации о гарантиях безопасности для Киева. Об этом сообщает «Страна.ua».

По его словам, речь идет об Австрии, Хорватии, Польше, Венгрии, Словакии и Мальте.

Сибига считает, что все эти страны имеют политическую волю стать стороной декларации.

Ранее глава офиса Зеленского Андрей Ермак , что к декларации о гарантиях безопасности Украине присоединились 31 из 51 государства, еще 15 стран готовы приступить к консультациям по двусторонним соглашениям.

Ермак подчеркнул, что Украина готова перейти к переговорам со странами по заключению соглашений о гарантиях безопасности.

Советник главы офиса украинского лидера Михаил Подоляк сентябре заявил, что Киев выражает надежду на то, что ключевыми гарантами ее безопасности станет 51 страна.

Ранее США и Украина начали переговоры по гарантиям безопасности Киеву.

https://m.gazeta.ru/politics/news/2023/12/24/21993577.shtml

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9520TH MEETING (AM)

SC/15546

22 DECEMBER 2023

Security Council Requests UN Coordinator for Humanitarian Aid in Gaza, Adopting Resolution 2720 (2023) by Recorded Vote

Parties to Conflict Told to Allow Deliveries to Proceed ‘At Scale’

The Security Council today requested the Secretary-General to appoint a Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for the Gaza Strip as it demanded the parties to the conflict to allow, facilitate and enable the immediate, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance at scale directly to Palestinian civilians throughout that territory. 

Adopting resolution 2720 (2023) by a recorded vote of 13 in favour to none against, with 2 abstentions (United States, Russian Federation), the Council determined that the Coordinator will be responsible for facilitating, coordinating, monitoring and verifying, in Gaza, the humanitarian nature of all humanitarian relief consignments provided through States which are not parties to the conflict.

It further requested that the Coordinator establish a United Nations mechanism for speeding up the provision of humanitarian relief consignments to Gaza through States which are not party to the conflict, and in consultation with all relevant parties.  In that regard, it demanded that the parties to conflict cooperate with the Coordinator to fulfil their mandate without delay or obstruction.

Through its resolution, the Council demanded that the parties to the conflict allow and facilitate the use of all available routes to and throughout the entire Gaza Strip, including border crossings — and including full and prompt implementation of the announced Karem Abu Salem/Kerem Shalom border crossing — for the provision of humanitarian assistance.  This is to ensure that humanitarian personnel and assistance — including fuel, food and medical supplies and emergency shelter assistance — reaches the civilian population in need throughout the Gaza Strip without diversion and through the most direct routes, according to the terms of the resolution.

Through the text, the Council reiterated its demand — contained in resolution 2712 (2023), adopted on 15 November — that all parties to the conflict comply with their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law.  It also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages as well as ensuring humanitarian access to address the hostages’ medical needs. It further demanded the provision of fuel to Gaza at levels that will meet humanitarian needs.  In addition, the Council requested that the Coordinator report to the Council on their work within 20 days, and then every 90 days thereafter through 30 September 2024.

Prior to adoption, the Council failed to adopt an amendment put forth by the Russian Federation owing to the United States casting a veto.  It would have had the Council call for an urgent suspension of hostilities to allow safe and unhindered humanitarian access, and for urgent steps towards a sustainable cessation of hostilities.  The vote was 10 in favour to 1 against (United States), with 4 abstentions (Albania, Japan, Switzerland, United Kingdom).

The United Arab Emirates’ representative, whose delegation presented the resolution, called it the product of extensive consultations between members of the Council and concerned parties.  “The purpose of this text is very simple:  It responds with action to the dire humanitarian situation on the ground for the Palestinian people bearing the brunt of this conflict while protecting those who are trying to deliver life-saving aid, and it demands the urgent release of the hostages and for humanitarian access to address their medical needs,” she said. 

“This was tough, but we got there,” the United States’ representative said.  Through the text, the Council can provide a glimmer of hope in a sea of unimaginable suffering.  She emphasized that international humanitarian law applies both to Israel and Hamas, which she described as a terror group that instigated the conflict and wages war from inside homes, hospitals and United Nations facilities.

The Permanent Observer of the State of Palestine said that so far, 20,000 Palestinians — almost half of them children — have been killed in Gaza, with another 2 million people forcibly displaced.  Israel’s objective is “no future for Palestinians in Palestine”, he asserted.  He called the Israeli military “a rogue army, unhinged and empowered by the impunity it enjoys, certain that it will not be held accountable.”  Only an immediate ceasefire can stop the war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide under way in Gaza, he added.

Israel’s representative said that it has been 77 days since Hamas terrorists murdered, raped and mutilated 1,300 Israelis and took 250 hostages, yet the Council issued not one statement condemning that group and its atrocities.  He also noted that the remaining 150 hostages held by Hamas are not even allowed visits by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).  Israel already facilitates hundreds of truckloads of aid into Gaza every day and it could expand that.  However, UN monitoring of aid deliveries cannot be done at the expense of Israel’s security inspections, as Israel will not permit the regrouping and rearming of Hamas, he emphasized.

Egypt’s representative called today’s resolution is a step in the right direction to ensure that aid will be delivered and that humanitarian work will not remain hostage to the will of the occupying Power.  He emphasized that this first step should be followed by many others, including obliging Israel to unconditionally halt hostilities throughout Gaza. 

The Russian Federation’s representative called today a tragic moment for the Council, not one of triumph.  He stated that he would have vetoed the text had it not been supported by several Arab States.  He categorically disagreed with the content of operative paragraph 2, saying:  “We will not put our names to this.” 

France’s representative said the Council could have been more ambitious in its language regarding a ceasefire.  On the importance of observing international humanitarian law, she called on the Council to condemn terrorist attacks and sexual violence by groups such as Hamas.  “It is incomprehensible that this Council has still not been able to do so,” she said.

Statements

LANA ZAKI NUSSEIBEH (United Arab Emirates), in a statement prior to action, said that a recent visit to the Gaza Strip by Security Council members left an indelible impression of the desperate situation on the ground.  Unless the Council takes drastic action, there will be famine in Gaza, she warned, adding that there is a real risk of a regional spillover of the conflict. Efforts by Egypt to mitigate the situation are admirable, but there must be an international response.  The draft resolution before the Council is the product of extensive consultations and engagements between Council members and concerned parties, in particular Egypt and Palestine, she said.

“The purpose of this text is very simple:  It responds with action to the dire humanitarian situation on the ground for the Palestinian people bearing the brunt of this conflict while protecting those who are trying to deliver life-saving aid — and it demands the urgent release of the hostages and for humanitarian access to address their medical needs.”  The text, which builds on resolution 2712 (2023), is not perfect and only a ceasefire will end the suffering.  Today’s text responds to calls for a sustainable cessation of hostilities and a massive scaling-up of humanitarian aid.  “Often, in diplomacy, the challenge is meeting the moment in the world we live in, not in the world that we want — and we will never tire of pushing for full humanitarian ceasefire,” she said.

VASSILY A. NEBENZIA (Russian Federation) accused the United States of sabotaging the Council’s adoption of the draft resolution proposed by the United Arab Emirates.  It had given the Council an ultimatum:  either adopt a text convenient for Washington or face another veto.  He proposed an amendment to operative paragraph 2, replacing the phrase “and in this regard calls for urgent steps to immediately allow safe, unhindered and expanded humanitarian access and to create the conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities” with “and in this regard calls for an urgent suspension of hostilities to allow safe and unhindered humanitarian access, and for urgent steps towards a sustainable cessation of hostilities”.  Urging Council members to vote for this amendment — “the lowest common denominator” — he said it could be a moment of truth to show real support the people of Gaza and to end the violence there.

The Council then failed to adopt the proposed amendment by a vote of 10 in favour to 1 against (United States), with 4 abstentions (Albania, Japan, Switzerland, United Kingdom), owing to the negative vote of a permanent member.

LINDA THOMAS-GREENFIELD (United States), noting that she voted against the proposed amendment, said that the draft resolution calls for urgent steps to immediately allow unhindered and expanded humanitarian access into Gaza and to create the conditions for the cessation of hostilities.  “This is a strong step forward,” she said.

The Council then adopted draft resolution S/2023/1029 (to be issued as document S/RES/2720(2023)) by a recorded vote of 13 in favour to none against, with 2 abstentions (Russian Federation, United States).

Ms. THOMAS-GREENFIELD (United States) said:  “This was tough, but we got there.”  Since the start of the conflict, the United States has worked tirelessly to alleviate the humanitarian crisis, get life-saving assistance into Gaza and get hostages out, and push for protection of innocent civilians and humanitarian workers. “Today’s vote bolsters those efforts and lends support to our direct diplomacy.”  She thanked the United Arab Emirates and others for “working with us in good faith to craft a strong humanitarian-focused resolution”.  As a result, the Council can provide a glimmer of hope in a sea of unimaginable suffering.  She added that international humanitarian law applies not only to Israel, but also to Hamas, a terror group that instigated the conflict and wages war from inside homes, hospitals and United Nations sites.  Welcoming the call for the appointment of a senior UN official to expedite delivery of humanitarian aid, she said that she was appalled that the Council was once again unable to condemn Hamas’ horrific terrorist attack on 7 October. 

BARBARA WOODWARD (United Kingdom), welcoming the resolution’s adoption, noted that the United Kingdom has tripled its aid to the region. It was also the first country to call on Israel to open more crossings and to deploy experts to provide logistical support at Al-Arish in Egypt.  The text will streamline aid checks so as to massively scale-up the humanitarian response.  It will also, “for avoidance of doubt”, stipulate that such aid is without prejudice to the rights and obligations of parties under international humanitarian law.  Today’s adoption is an important signal of the Council’s commitment, and its actions — both today and in the future — must help ensure that the horror of 7 October never happens again.  Condemning Hamas’ acts of terror and supporting Israel’s right to self-defence, she added that the United Kingdom supports a two-State solution that guarantees true security and stability for both Israelis and Palestinians.

SÉRGIO FRANÇA DANESE (Brazil) said that the time for a humanitarian response in Gaza is now and not tomorrow or whenever the conflict ends.  After more than 70 days of hostilities, the situation is dire.  The remaining hostages must be released immediately and civilians and civilian facilities must be protected.  “This is not just a moral or ethical choice — it is an obligation under international humanitarian law as is humanitarian access.”  Humanitarian aid allowed into Gaza must be substantially increased and should contain all essential items, including fuel, he said, calling for full implementation of the resolution.

VANESSA FRAZIER (Malta) said that the resolution, as well as resolution 2712 (2023), must be fully implemented.  She emphasized the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire and called for compliance with international law, the protection of civilians and medical personnel, and accountability for violators.  Implementation of a monitoring mechanism should not hinder humanitarian assistance, she said, adding:  “On the contrary it should rapidly and efficiently facilitate it.”  She went on to emphasize the importance of political engagement for lasting peace and support the resolution’s commitment to a two-State solution.

DAI BING (China) said that for reasons known to all, the draft resolution contained several adjustments touching on important aspects which did not meet the expectations of Member States.  However, the Council’s action offers at least a glimmer of hope.  Whether this glimmer can be truly felt by the people of Gaza depends on whether the resolution can be effectively implemented. “We expect urgent action to be taken,” he said, expressing hope that the monitoring mechanism will be put in place. Only a ceasefire can prevent political settlement prospects from being completely destroyed, he said, adding that for this reason, China voted in favour of the Russian Federation’s proposed amendment.

YAMAZAKI KAZUYUKI (Japan) said that the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza needs urgent attention and meaningful action by the Council.  Japan voted in favor of the resolution as the people in Gaza cannot wait any longer.  Calling for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, he said that he hoped that the resolution will be a first step towards real change on the ground.  He acknowledged serious diplomatic efforts by the United States to improve the situation on the ground and cited the entry of humanitarian convoys through the Kerem Shalom crossing.  However, gunfire and bombardments must stop immediately in order to allow meaningful humanitarian operations, he said.

PASCALE CHRISTINE BAERISWYL (Switzerland) said that images from the Rafah crossing illustrate that the civilian population is desperate and requires immediate support from the international community to survive.  Today’s resolution, along with the opening of the Kerem Shalom crossing, will help, she said, adding that the resolution provides for the appointment of a humanitarian and reconstruction coordinator and a UN mechanism to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those in need as soon as possible.  The text also calls for conditions to be created for a lasting ceasefire that does not prejudice Israel’s right to defend its security. Further, it is complementary to international humanitarian law, according to which all parties to conflict must authorize and facilitate rescue operations to help populations in need, she said.

FERIT HOXHA (Albania) said the resolution marks an important step forward.  Albania would have liked a more robust text, but the resolution adopted today has notable merits.  He welcomed the establishment of a clear and straightforward mechanism to allow unhindered access for humanitarian assistance at scale for the people in Gaza.  “Countless families are in dire need.  They must be helped now, today and every day,” he said, adding that it is urgent for the United Nations to act.  He called for the resolution’s speedy and full implementation, adding that Albania’s vote in favour of the text should not be misused by Hamas as condoning the unacceptable and unjustifiable.

NATHALIE BROADHURST ESTIVAL (France) said that the Council could have been more ambitious in its language regarding a ceasefire.  France has consistently advocated for an immediate and durable humanitarian truce that leads to a lasting ceasefire.  Additionally, France mobilized the international community during the international humanitarian conference in November, which gathered more than €1 billion in pledges from Western nations.  Emphasizing the importance of observing international humanitarian law, she called on the Council to condemn terrorist attacks and sexual violence by groups such as Hamas.  “It is incomprehensible that this Council has still not been able to do so,” she said.

DOMINGOS ESTÊVÃO FERNANDES (Mozambique) said that his delegation’s vote in favour reflected Mozambique’s commitment to the principle of protection of civilians during any armed conflict.  While the resolution is not a perfect text, it is an effort to respond to the critical role of humanitarian personnel in providing aid to civilians affected by the conflict.  Having visited the Rafah hospital and the Rafah crossing border, his delegation “could see with our eyes and feel with our own hearts” the tragedy of the Palestinian people, he said.

HAROLD ADLAI AGYEMAN (Ghana) said that while it is time for hostilities to end, his delegation voted in favour of the resolution because with so many lives lost - mostly women and children — and many more on the verge of starvation, famine and pestilence, it is imperative to take every opportunity to save lives and facilitate humanitarian access.  All parties to the conflict have an obligation to comply with international law, in particular as it impacts civilians, and to protect UN personnel and premises.  He urged the easing of all rigid procedures to speed up delivery of humanitarian aid and reiterated the call for the immediate, unconditional release of all hostages.  Going forward, the Council cannot lose sight of its historical responsibility for the implementation of the two-State solution “even in this most darkest of moments”.

Mr. NEBENZIA (Russian Federation), recalling the vote on his delegation’s proposed amendment, said that the United States exposed its true face to the world by blocking an extremely weak call for a cessation of hostilities in Gaza.  Today is a tragic moment for the Council, not one of triumph.  Essentially, the Council was being asked not to get in the way while the United States “goes around twisting arms in the region”.  Noting that his delegation would have vetoed the text if it was not supported by several Arab States, he said the Arab world can take decisions and bear responsibility for them.  However, he categorically disagreed with the content of operative paragraph 2, stressing:  “We will not put our names to this.”  Implementing a Council resolution in Gaza is impossible absent a ceasefire, as the experience of resolution 2712 (2023) has shown, he said, stating that the Council will return to this issue and unambiguously demand a cessation of hostilities.

Ms. NUSSEIBEH (United Arab Emirates), welcoming the adoption of resolution 2720 (2023), said that she was grateful for the Council’s support. “The text compels the international community to finally share in the burden that Egypt has been shouldering and it commits all of us to breaking the cruel blockade strangling Gaza for the last 16 years.”  Every instance of progress serves a reminder of the scale of the tragedy.  However, “we are still unable to stop the war” and Palestinians are being asked to accept that diplomacy is the art of what is possible.  But what is possible is not predetermined; it is the product of active choices.  “The collective choices of this Council, influenced by its structure, has shaped this grim reality.  They can help shape a different future,” she said.

JOSÉ JAVIER DE LA GASCA (Ecuador), Council President for December, speaking in his national capacity, said that today’s adoption was the outcome of careful negotiations, good faith and the constructive spirit.  Recalling last week’s visit to the Rafah crossing by Council members, he said the humanitarian situation in Gaza is “disastrous and despairing”.  Today’s resolution aims to significantly increase the quantity of aid going into Gaza; it also calls for increased humanitarian access.  “This resolution in no way contravenes the previous resolution 2712 (2023) and should be seen as an additional step towards the urgent need for a ceasefire.”  Reiterating his condemnation for Hamas’s actions on 7 October, he said that today’s resolution should have explicitly mentioned that it is that group which is holding the hostages.

RIYAD H. MANSOUR, Permanent Observer of the State of Palestine, said that since the start of the war, 20,000 Palestinian people — almost half of them children — have been killed, plus 60,000 wounded and 2 million forcibly displaced.  Today’s resolution will allow the Palestine Red Crescent, Palestinian medical and civilian rescue teams and United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) personnel to save human lives.  Referring to a statement by the Deputy Head of the Civil Administration of Israel on 4 November, he said that Israel’s goal and true objective is “no future for Palestinians in Palestine”.  Furthermore, Israel also targets storytellers and journalists, he said, adding:  “Israel’s target is not only the past and the present of our people, but indeed the future.”

He drew attention to the killing by Israeli troops of three Israeli hostages in Gaza as well as to the ongoing ill treatment and mass arrests of Palestinians.  “Those are the soldiers of a rogue army, unhinged and empowered by the impunity it enjoys, certain that it will not be held accountable.”  Death in all of its manifestations is everywhere in Gaza and the Council resolution just adopted seeks to address this inhumane situation. Noting that the Council took 75 days to “finally utter the words ‘cessation of hostilities’”, he added:  “There is no way to stop the war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide under way but [for] an immediate ceasefire.”

BRETT JONATHAN MILLER (Israel) recalled that it once took the Council one day to condemn an act of terror in Iran and to express its sympathy for the victims and their families.  On the other hand, 77 days after Hamas intentionally murdered, raped and mutilated 1,300 Israelis and took 250 hostages, the Council has yet to issue a single statement condemning that group and its atrocities. While humanitarian aid is pouring into Gaza, the remaining 150 hostages held by Hamas are not even allowed visits by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) — “the most heinous war crime imaginable”. Israel is already facilitating hundreds of truckloads of aid into Gaza every day, and it is willing and able to exponentially increase its entry.  However, any enhancement of UN aid monitoring cannot be done at the expense of Israel’s security inspections, he said. 

Israel will not permit the regrouping and rearming of Hamas, as its 7 October atrocities cannot be repeated, he continued. Israel recently exposed another four-kilometre terror tunnel in Gaza, located 50 metres underground, he noted. For years and countless times, Israel met with officials to outline Hamas’s growing terror threat, “but our words fell on deaf ears.”  Just as the Council is committed to increasing aid, it should be committed to supporting Israel’s mission to return the hostages, block the smuggling of arms to terrorists and ensure that aid is not diverted to terrorists.  Any resolution should hold Hamas accountable, as it is a genocidal terror organization and a direct threat to Israel, Gazans and regional stability, he said.

OSAMA MAHMOUD ABDELKHALEK MAHMOUD (Egypt) said that today’s resolution is a step in the right direction to address the humanitarian impact of the war in Gaza.  It will ensure that aid will be delivered, unhindered, through a mechanism under UN supervision so that humanitarian work will not remain hostage to the will of the occupying Power.  Gaza is starving and houses, hospitals and medical facilities are being destroyed, accompanied by continued settler attacks in the West Bank and East Jerusalem that could lead to spreading violence.  Now that the Council has adopted a resolution, UN agencies and bodies must implement it without delay by drawing up a comprehensive plan to translate the text into a functioning, effective mechanism in full coordination with the international community, he said.

“This is a first step,” he continued, emphasizing that it should be followed by many others, including obliging Israel to unconditionally halt hostilities throughout Gaza.  All efforts aimed at alleviating the humanitarian crisis will only bear fruit if the Council implements a binding resolution concerning a comprehensive, lasting ceasefire.  He also pointed out that today’s resolution is not confined to humanitarian issues, as it also stresses that international law obligations should be respected, that civilians should not be forcibly transferred and that the unity of Palestinian territory in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank should be respected.  These are not less important than the humanitarian aspects, he said, reiterating the importance of realizing the legitimate aspirations of Palestinians

https://press.un.org/en/2023/sc15546.doc.htm

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