Statement by Ambassador at the UN Security Council
meeting on the Middle East peace process.
Thank you President, and I thank Special Coordinator Wennesland
for his helpful but sobering briefing.
Let me start by welcoming both Prime Minister Lapid and President
Abbas’ support for a two-state solution, during their speeches to
the General Assembly last week. The UK firmly believes that a
two-state solution, based on 1967 lines, with Jerusalem as a
shared capital and a just solution for refugees is the best way
to deliver long-term peace.
The challenges facing a two-state solution however remain
significant. We share deep concerns about the deteriorating
security situation in the West Bank. And we urge all parties to
reduce tensions and avoid de-stabilising unilateral actions.
We urge Israel not to proceed with demolitions at Masafer Yatta,
which would cause unnecessary suffering, and are against
international law in all but the most exceptional circumstances.
We unequivocally condemn the execution of five Gazans by Hamas
this month. The UK opposes the death penalty in all
circumstances.
In the West Bank, in 2022 more Palestinians have been killed by
Israeli forces since the UN started recording fatalities in 2005.
The UK remains fully supportive of Israel’s right to
self-defence, but where there are accusations of excessive use of
force, we advocate swift, transparent investigations.
We are appalled too by terrorist attacks against Israeli
citizens. Such attacks cannot be justified.
We appreciate Norway’s leadership in convening the Ad Hoc Liaison
Committee this month. We welcome progress on economic measures,
including the electronic payment of Palestinian workers in
Israel, and work ensuring the continued success of E-Vat.
However, bolder and faster action is needed to deliver real
economic change in the OPTs. TThe UK is committed to supporting
another meeting of the Joint Economic Committee as soon as
possible.
We also thank Jordan and Sweden for hosting a Ministerial meeting
in support of UNRWA. The UK is a long-standing financial and
political supporter of UNRWA, and we welcome UNRWA’s continued
support to Palestinian refugees across the region. We encourage
further dialogue among partners to ensure delivery on UNRWA’s
mandate.
In conclusion President,
Peace will only be achieved only through meaningful dialogue
between the parties, which tackles the drivers of instability and
violence in the immediate term. We encourage further and deeper
engagement towards this goal.
