Statement by Ambassador at the Security Council
meeting on the Situation in the Middle East.
"Thank you President, and thank you Special Coordinator
Wennesland for your thoughtful briefing.
The UK is gravely concerned by increasing instability in the West
Bank and Jerusalem. Since 14 November, four Israelis have lost
their lives in terror attacks in the city of Ariel and in
Jerusalem, including a 16 year old. There is no justification for
this violence. During this time, two Palestinian minors have also
been killed in the West Bank, including a 15 year-old. 141
Palestinians have now been killed by Israeli Security Forces
since 1 January – the most in a single year since UN records
began in 2005. In the same period, 30 Israelis have also lost
their lives. Each life lost is a tragedy for all communities,
particularly the families affected. So this ongoing conflict
needs to be resolved for the sake of all Israelis and
Palestinians alike.
The UK stands ready to support the new Israeli administration and
the Palestinian Authority to deescalate and address the root
drivers of conflict. The UK remains fully supportive of Israel’s
right to self-defence. But Israeli Security Forces should show
maximum restraint in the use of force, and investigate all
Palestinian deaths.
We urge both parties to engage in meaningful dialogue, refrain
from escalatory actions, and work to restore trust and a pathway
towards peace and a resolution of this conflict. The UK shares
the concern of others at scenes of settler violence perpetrated
against Palestinians in Hebron in recent days. Settler violence
must end, and we call upon Israel to hold those responsible to
account.
We condemn the demolition by Israel of a primary school in
Masafer Yatta. Mr. President, all children have a basic right to
access education safely, and we call on the Government of Israel
to uphold these rights.
Finally, I urge Israel and the Palestinian Authority to
accelerate efforts to improve the economic and humanitarian
conditions in the West Bank and Gaza. I welcome ongoing dialogue
to address PA Clearance Revenues and call for the parties to
honour their recent AHLC commitments.
The UK remains a firm supporter of a two state solution, based on
1967 lines, with Jerusalem as a shared capital, as the only way
to ensure a lasting peace between the parties.
Thank you President."
