Statement by UK Political Coordinator Fergus Eckersley at
the UN Security Council meeting on the Middle East.
Thank you, Madam President. We thank the Special Coordinator for
his helpful update. We also take good note of Dr Zogby’s
briefing.
Madam President, as we’ve heard, the security situation in the
West Bank and Occupied Palestinian Territories continues to
deteriorate. Last week saw more loss of life and showed how
quickly and unpredictably events can change. It also underscored
the urgent need for restraint, calm and respect for the dignity
of human life.
Seven people, including two children, were killed in an Israeli
raid in the city of Jenin in the West Bank. Whilst the UK
supports Israel’s right to defend itself, its security operations
must be in line with international humanitarian law and every
effort must be made to avoid civilian casualties.
Terror attacks, such as the killing of four Israelis near the
settlement of Eli by Hamas-affiliated gunmen on 20 June are
barbaric, unjustifiable, and undermine the safety and security of
all Israelis and Palestinians. The UK condemns these attacks
without qualification. The glorification of these killers by
Hamas and other organisations is abhorrent and heightens tensions
where de-escalation is needed.
We also unequivocally condemn recent scenes of settler violence
in Turums Ayya where homes and property were burned down and
civilians attacked, resulting in the death of one Palestinian.
All perpetrators of these hate crimes need to be held to account,
and we urge that steps are taken to prevent similar crimes
happening again.
Madame President, turning now to the report by the Special
Coordinator, I will make three points.
First, the report demonstrates the damaging effect of what it
calls the “relentless expansion” of settlements on the prospects
for peace. The UK’s long-standing position remains unchanged: we
oppose settlements, which are illegal under international law,
and call on Israel to cease and reverse its policy of supporting
their expansion.
Second, the report also makes clear the value and importance of
the dialogue that took place between senior Israelis and
Palestinians earlier this year to build trust and manage
tensions. We echo the report’s call for all sides to honour the
commitments made in Aqaba and Sharm el-Sheikh.
Finally, the UK shares the report’s concerns about UNRWA’s
funding shortfalls. The agency provides vital services and hope
to millions and we call on all member states to work together to
address this shortfall urgently.
