{"id":168876,"date":"2018-11-29T14:16:00","date_gmt":"2018-11-29T14:16:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/?post_type=document&p=168876"},"modified":"2020-07-22T00:47:45","modified_gmt":"2020-07-22T04:47:45","slug":"as-ga-debates-question-of-palestine-members-call-for-swift-action-to-jump-start-israeli-palestinian-talks-realize-two-state-solution-press-release","status":"publish","type":"document","link":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/as-ga-debates-question-of-palestine-members-call-for-swift-action-to-jump-start-israeli-palestinian-talks-realize-two-state-solution-press-release\/","title":{"rendered":"As GA Debates Question of Palestine, Members Call for Swift Action to Jump-Start Israeli-Palestinian Talks, Realize Two-State Solution – Press Release"},"content":{"rendered":"

SEVENTY-THIRD SESSION,<\/span>\u00a042ND MEETING (PM)
\nGA\/12095
\n29 NOVEMBER 2018<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

fran\u00e7ais<\/a><\/p>\n

video<\/a><\/p>\n

The international community must take urgent action to end the suffering of the Palestinian people, ensure that Israel abides by all international laws and promote the conditions where two\u2011State talks can flourish, the General Assembly heard today as it began a debate on the question of Palestine.<\/p>\n

Many delegates expressed support for the Palestinian cause, condemned Israel for its continued settlement activities in the West Bank and blockade of Gaza and urged all parties to return to the table for talks to realize a two\u2011State solution, based on pre\u20111967 borders.\u00a0 Many recalled the historic significance of 29\u00a0November for two historic occasions.\u00a0 In 1947, the Assembly adopted resolution 181 on the question of Palestine, recommending a partition plan of Palestine into two States, and in 1977, the Assembly called for the annual observance of 29\u00a0November as the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.<\/p>\n

The Permanent Observer for the State of Palestine expressed concern about recent developments in the region, including the decision of the United States to move its embassy to Jerusalem, defunding Â鶹APP Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East\u00a0(UNRWA) and attempts to strip Palestinian refugees of their legitimate status and rights.\u00a0 Still, he said, his delegation believes in the authority and capacities of the Security Council and General Assembly to uphold the law.\u00a0 Such faith could seem remarkable considering Israel\u2019s violations and war crimes, which continue to be rewarded, rather than sanctioned, he said.<\/p>\n

He appealed for urgent global action, calling on States to uphold international law and affirm support for the Palestinian people, their inalienable rights and the realization of the State of Palestine based on pre\u20111967 borders.\u00a0 He urged Member States to ensure accountability, including through practical measures to safeguard respect for the Â鶹APP Charter.\u00a0 \u201cAs long as the benefits outweigh the cost,\u201d he said, \u201cIsrael will continue to impose its illegal occupation and to trample the Charter and Â鶹APP resolutions.\u201d<\/p>\n

Israel\u2019s representative said the Â鶹APP adopts resolutions every year to condemn his country, none of which has ever mentioned Hamas.\u00a0 Hamas, an internationally recognized terrorist organization, steals aid from the Palestinian people to fund tunnels and uses civilians as human shields.\u00a0 If the international community does not condemn Hamas, it is enabling a terrorist organization.\u00a0 Since the 1947 vote, Israel has faced wars, isolation, double standards and anti\u2011Semitism.\u00a0 As soon as the partition plan passed, the Palestinian people began teaching their children to hate Israel.<\/p>\n

\u201cEvery time we reach out with an open hand, we are not only faced with a clenched fist, but an armed one,\u201d he said.\u00a0 Noting that 65\u00a0per\u00a0cent of Palestinians are pessimistic about their future, he urged them to reject their corrupt leaders and elect those who have their best interests at heart.\u00a0 Meanwhile, Israel will continue to hold free and fair elections.\u00a0 He also urged Member States \u201cto not fuel the fire of delusion\u201d when the Palestinians bring wasteful resolutions to the Â鶹APP.<\/p>\n

In the ensuing discussion, representatives resoundingly called for support to talks leading to a two\u2011State solution.\u00a0 Jordan\u2019s delegate said the Palestinian question is the key to peace and stability in the Middle East.\u00a0 \u201cThe two\u2011State solution is the only solution,\u201d she said, calling for the establishment of a Palestinian State based on pre\u20111967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.\u00a0 Pakistan\u2019s representative said that ever since the Assembly adopted a resolution partitioning the mandate of Palestine into two States 71\u00a0years ago, the tragedy of the Palestinian people has remained an unremitting tale of broken promises.\u00a0 \u201cBut, let me remind this parliament of the world that there is nothing normal about the pain and suffering faced every day by the Palestinian people,\u201d she added.<\/p>\n

Norway\u2019s representative expressed deep concerns that the period of 11\u00a0to 13\u00a0November experienced one of the fiercest exchanges of fire in Gaza since 2014.\u00a0 Hamas bears a major share of the responsibility for the situation in Gaza, but Israel must also lift the restrictions on the movement of people and goods.<\/p>\n

\u201cRecognition of Israel as an independent State must be accompanied by the recognition of Palestine as an independent State,\u201d Egypt\u2019s delegate said.\u00a0 The annual renewal of efforts by the international community to resolve the crisis is the only silver lining for the people of Palestine, he added, warning against populist rhetoric that will worsen the crisis.<\/p>\n

At the outset of the meeting, the Chair and the Rapporteur of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People introduced its report and the following draft resolutions:\u00a0\u00a0\u201cCommittee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People\u201d (document A\/73\/L.31<\/a>); \u201cPeaceful settlement of the question of Palestine\u201d (document A\/73\/L.32<\/a>); \u201cSpecial information programme on the question of Palestine of the Department of Public Information of the Secretariat\u201d (document A\/73\/L.33<\/a>); and \u201cDivision for Palestinian Rights of the Secretariat\u201d (document A\/73\/L.34<\/a>).\u00a0 Also speaking today were representatives of Libya, Maldives, Kuwait, Argentina, United Arab Emirates, Venezuela, Bahrain, Lebanon, China, Iraq, Uruguay and Indonesia.<\/p>\n

The General Assembly will reconvene at 10\u00a0a.m. on Friday, 30\u00a0November, to conclude its debate on the question of Palestine and take action on related draft resolutions, then begin its debate on the situation in the Middle East.<\/p>\n

Question of Palestine<\/u><\/p>\n

CHEIKH NIANG\u00a0(Senegal), Chair of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, introduced the following draft resolutions:\u00a0 \u201cCommittee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People\u201d\u00a0(document A\/73\/L.31); \u201cPeaceful settlement of the question of Palestine\u201d\u00a0(document A\/73\/L.32); \u201cSpecial information programme on the question of Palestine of the Department of Public Information of the Secretariat\u201d\u00a0(document A\/73\/L.33); and \u201cDivision for Palestinian Rights of the Secretariat\u201d\u00a0(document A\/73\/L.34).<\/p>\n

He commended the General Assembly President for urging the international community to translate solidarity with the Palestinian people into tangible action.\u00a0 However, the current environment is marked by a lack of clear political will to solve the Palestinian\u2011Israeli conflict.\u00a0 As such, calls for action are more relevant than ever before in the pursuit of a two\u2011State solution.\u00a0 The Committee will work with all relevant actors to keep the question of Palestine on the international agenda until Palestinians fully enjoy their inalienable rights.<\/p>\n

Highlighting the Committee\u2019s approval of the four draft resolutions by consensus, he pointed out that \u201cL.32\u201d would have the Assembly urge States to not recognize any changes to pre\u20111967 borders other than those agreed through negotiations.\u00a0 Noting 50\u00a0years of Israeli occupation, he said that through \u201cL.31\u201d the Assembly would urge the international community to intensify efforts to reach a peaceful solution to the question of Palestine.\u00a0 Turning to \u201cL.34\u201d, he said the General Assembly would renew the mandate of the Committee.\u00a0 Draft text L.33\u201d would requests the Department of Public Information to continue pursuing efforts to spread awareness of the situation in Palestine.\u00a0 He invited Member States to provide broad support for the drafts to \u201csend a message of hope to the Palestinian people\u201d.<\/p>\n

CARMELO INGUANEZ\u00a0(Malta), Committee Rapporteur, introduced the \u201cReport of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People\u201d\u00a0(document\u00a0A\/73\/35<\/a>), saying it includes a review of the political context relating to the question of Palestine during the reporting period and outlines action taken by the Committee in its engagement with Â鶹APP entities and other relevant organizations.\u00a0 Through the report\u2019s conclusions, the Committee urges the international community to redouble efforts towards achieving a two\u2011State solution and deems as null and void decisions by Member States to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.<\/p>\n

The report also reiterates a need to reframe the Palestinian\u2011Israeli conflict from a territorial dispute between two equal parties to that of \u201cone State occupying, colonizing and annexing the territory of another State\u201d, he said.\u00a0 \u201cThe Committee calls on the international community to shift from a humanitarian to a political and human rights framework in addressing the plight of the Palestinian People,\u201d he said, demanding an end to the 11\u2011year\u2011old Israeli blockade of Gaza.\u00a0 States and private entities must not contribute to \u201cgrave Israeli violations of human rights\u201d, he asserted.<\/p>\n

For its part, he said, the Committee continues to enhance cooperation with the League of Arab States and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation\u00a0(OIC).\u00a0 He called on the European Union to take \u201ca more politically active role in moderating an end to the conflict\u201d.\u00a0 Efforts by the Committee to engage with civil society organizations are set to expand, he said, also calling on the Â鶹APP Department of Public Information to continue its special information programme on the question of Palestine.\u00a0 He also called for the Assembly to adopt the four related draft resolutions.<\/p>\n

RIYAD H. MANSOUR, Permanent Observer for the\u00a0State of Palestine<\/u>, expressed commitment to diplomatic, political, legal and non\u2011violent means to realize the rights of the Palestinian people.\u00a0 He underscored his faith in the authority and capacities of the Security Council and General Assembly \u2014 \u201cdespite blows to their credibility\u201d \u2014 to uphold the law towards attaining a just, lasting and peaceful solution to this question.\u00a0 \u201cSuch faith must be shared by all who still believe in the purposes and principles of this Organization, the rule of law and the true spirit of multilateralism,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Questioning how such faith has survived after so many years, he expressed concern over recent regional developments including the decision of the United States on moving its embassy to Jerusalem, the termination of funding to Â鶹APP Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East\u00a0(UNRWA) and the attempts to strip Palestinian refugees of their legitimate status and rights.\u00a0 \u201cOnly a deep conviction in the law and the inevitability of justice could have kept us on this path,\u201d he said, adding that such faith should seem remarkable considering Israel\u2019s violations and war crimes, which continue to be rewarded, rather than sanctioned, by the international community. \u00a0This is what makes it particularly difficult to continue to justify such a commitment to a peaceful path while convincing Palestinian people, especially the youth, of its logic and benefits.<\/p>\n

Israel is in grave breach of virtually all international and legal obligations, acting in blatant contempt of the Security Council, he said.\u00a0 Israel also ignores demands to cease its illegal policies and practices in occupied Palestinian territory and continues to systematically destroy the two\u2011State solution, which is based on the pre\u20111967 borders.\u00a0 In the past year, illegal Israeli settlement activities in the West Bank and in and around East Jerusalem have continued.\u00a0 Israel has also continued building its annexation wall, transferring settlers, stealing Palestinian land, demolishing Palestinian homes and forcing the displacement of Palestinian civilians.\u00a0 It has persisted in its provocations against holy sites, particularly in occupied East Jerusalem, including violating the historic status quo at the Al\u2011Haram Al\u2011Sharif.<\/p>\n

Israel has also continued its collective punishment of the Palestinian people, he said.\u00a0 The most heinous of such restrictions remains Israel\u2019s 11\u2011year blockade of Gaza, where 2\u00a0million Palestinians are being deliberately isolated.\u00a0 Moreover, one discriminatory law and racist policy after another, led by extremist members of the Prime Minister of Israel\u2019s coalition, continues to further dispossess, marginalize and dehumanize Palestinians.\u00a0 The most offensive of such is the recent \u201cJewish Nation\u2011State Bill\u201d, he said, adding that \u201conly Jews are entitled to self-determination in Israel.\u201d<\/p>\n

He appealed for urgent international action, calling on States to uphold international law and affirm support for the Palestinian people, their inalienable rights and the realization of the State of Palestine based on the pre\u20111967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.\u00a0 States must also do more to ensure that they are not complicit with Israel\u2019s illegal actions, including by not recognizing as legitimate the unlawful situation created by Israel\u2019s policies in occupied Palestinian territory.\u00a0 He urged Member States to ensure accountability, including through practical measures to safeguard respect for the Â鶹APP Charter and international humanitarian law.\u00a0 \u201cAs long as the benefits outweigh the cost,\u201d he said, \u201cIsrael will continue to impose its illegal occupation and to trample the Charter and Â鶹APP resolutions.\u201d<\/p>\n

DANNY BEN YOSEF DANON\u00a0(Israel<\/u>) said every year the Â鶹APP adopts resolutions to condemn his country, none of which has ever mentioned Hamas.\u00a0 These resolutions do not lead the Palestinian people forward.\u00a0 Instead, the international community can take a moral stance to condemn Hamas, which is an internationally recognized terrorist organization.\u00a0 Hamas steals aid from the Palestinian people to fund tunnels and uses civilians as human shields.\u00a0 If the international community does not condemn Hamas, it is enabling a terrorist organization.<\/p>\n

The historic land of the Jewish people remained a barren desert for centuries as it was passed on between countless empires, he continued.\u00a0 \u201cOur people were exiled from our land,\u201d he said, recalling that on this day, 71\u00a0years ago, 33\u00a0Member States adopted a plan to designate a small portion of the land to the Jewish people.\u00a0 Since then, Israel has faced wars, isolation, double standards and anti\u2011Semitism.\u00a0 This did not stop Israel from building \u201csomething miraculous, an oasis in the desert and the one and only democracy for hundreds of miles.\u201d\u00a0 The vote on 29\u00a0November\u00a01947 did not give Israel all that it wanted, but Israel took that and turned it into something extraordinary.<\/p>\n

As soon as the partition plan passed, the Palestinian people began teaching their children to hate Israel, he said.\u00a0 It is time the Palestinian people recalculate their route, so that partnership, prosperity and peace are possible.\u00a0 Israel represents seven decades of human rights and hope.\u00a0 Israeli elections are free and fair.\u00a0 Israelis enjoy full freedom of speech and press.\u00a0 Israel champions the rights of all its people.\u00a0 Women participate in Government in large numbers.\u00a0 He noted Israel\u2019s various technological breakthroughs from health care to fighting terrorism.\u00a0 \u201cWe are eager to share our knowledge, expertise and capabilities with our neighbours and around the world,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Palestinians have shown no interest in improving lives, instead wasting decades sponsoring terrorism, he continued.\u00a0 Instead of ventures, they chose violence.\u00a0 Instead of progress, they choose the past.\u00a0 The Â鶹APP voted to recognize a Jewish State and an Arab State.\u00a0 \u201cEvery time we reach out with an open hand, we are not only faced with a clenched fist, but an armed one,\u201d he said.\u00a0 Mahmoud Abbas was elected in\u00a02005, the last Palestine Liberation Organization elections to be held.\u00a0 It is no secret that the Palestinian leadership sponsors terrorism, he said, adding that Mr.\u00a0Abbas allocated $355\u00a0million to terrorist organizations.\u00a0 The current leadership is not capable of leading nor is it interested in the responsibility of governing.<\/p>\n

Palestinians could surge ahead, but instead have decided to incite violence and deny Israel\u2019s connection to its land, he said.\u00a0 In\u00a02005, Israel removed all its Jewish communities and even uprooted its cemeteries from Gaza.\u00a0 The Palestinians had an opportunity to turn Gaza into something special, but they elected Hamas and Gaza became a terminal for terrorism.\u00a0 Noting that 65\u00a0per\u00a0cent of Palestinians are pessimistic about their future, he urged them to reject their corrupt leaders and instead elect those who have their best interests at heart.\u00a0 He also urged Member States \u201cto not fuel the fire of delusion\u201d when the Palestinians bring wasteful resolutions to the Â鶹APP.\u00a0 Israel is committed to prosperity in partnership with its neighbours, he said, adding that the Jewish people will continue to flourish, regardless of the obstacles they face.<\/p>\n

SIMA SAMI I. BAHOUS (Jordan<\/u>) commended the Committee\u2019s efforts to keep the interests of Palestinians at the forefront of the international community.\u00a0 Quoting the King of Jordan, she said the Palestinian question is the key to peace and stability in the Middle East.\u00a0 \u201cThe two\u2011State solution is the only solution,\u201d she said, calling for the establishment of a Palestinian State based on pre\u20111967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.\u00a0 Jordan promotes the peaceful resolution of the conflict and prompts States to stand up for the rights of the Palestinian people.\u00a0 \u201cThe plight of the Palestinian people, particularly in the Gaza strip, calls for immediate action,\u201d she said, assuring Palestine of her Government\u2019s continued support.\u00a0 Calling for increased support for\u00a0UNRWA, she said preserving the Agency means promoting the rights of refugees to live in dignity.<\/p>\n

ELMAHDI S. ELMAJERBI (Libya<\/u>) said the reports presented today \u201ccategorically prove\u201d the fairness of considering the question of Palestine in the Assembly.\u00a0 \u201cIt is unfortunate that Israel continues to violate all relevant resolutions of the General Assembly,\u201d he continued.\u00a0 Israeli aggression against the occupied territory persists in flagrant contempt of Â鶹APP resolutions and in violation of its international legal obligations.\u00a0 Such actions undermine efforts to achieve a two\u2011State solution, he said, adding that Israeli security forces are provoking the Palestinian people to pursue a religious conflict.\u00a0 Asking why Israel should be trusted to respect peace efforts, he warned that the country\u2019s narrative of the conflict is based on myths.\u00a0 Asserting that the Golan is part of Syria, he called on the international community to take serious steps to establish lasting peace.\u00a0 \u201cMake no mistake,\u201d he said.\u00a0 \u201cPalestine and its people will stay.\u201d<\/p>\n

AISHATH FAREENA (Maldives<\/u>) noted that it has been 71\u00a0years since the Assembly adopted a historic resolution that set out the framework for establishing a sovereign and independent State of Palestine.\u00a0 That resolution remains historic because of its failure to realize its own promise of creating two separate independent States, living side\u2011by\u2011side in peace and harmony.\u00a0 It is also historic because of its failure to protect the fundamental rights of Palestinians to live in their homes with dignity and respect.\u00a0 She condemned the continued violation of human rights and the disregard for international law in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and urged Israel to return to the right side of international law, restart negotiations with the State of Palestine in good faith and end the seven decades of occupation.<\/p>\n

BADER ABDULLAH N. M. ALMUNAYEKH (Kuwait<\/u>) said that for years, numerous international resolutions have passed and Israel continues to refuse to shoulder its responsibility as outlined in the Â鶹APP Charter.\u00a0 Israel undermines all humanitarian criteria by continuing its forced evictions and displacements.\u00a0 The Palestinian people face the most heinous forms of human rights violations.\u00a0 Israel\u2019s policies continue to undermine any prospect of a two\u2011State solution, he said, reiterating Kuwait\u2019s full support for Security Council resolution 2334<\/a>\u00a0(2016).\u00a0 Kuwait will continue to defend the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and will urge the Security Council to champion the Palestinian cause.\u00a0 He commended the Palestinian people\u2019s determination and called on the international community, especially the Security Council, to protect them against the \u201cIsraeli military machine\u201d.\u00a0 All parties, especially those sponsoring the peace process in the Middle East, must redouble their efforts to place pressure on Israel to halt its illegal actions.<\/p>\n

MART\u00cdN GARC\u00cdA MORIT\u00c1N (Argentina<\/u>) said the peace process between the Palestinians and Israelis is going through its most difficult time since the signing of the Oslo Accords.\u00a0 Indeed, the seriousness of the situation on the ground demands a collective effort to keep alive the prospect of a two\u2011State solution.\u00a0 Yet, Israel\u2019s illegal settlements in occupied Palestinian territories are an obstacle to peace and perpetuate an unsustainable status quo.\u00a0 Meanwhile, the attacks against Israeli citizens are completely inadmissible and must immediately stop, he said, condemning the hostile actions of Hamas and other Palestinian organizations.\u00a0 While recognizing Israel\u2019s right to exercise its legitimate defence, such actions must be compatible with international humanitarian law.\u00a0 In light of financial difficulties facing UNRWA, the international community must ensure that the Agency has the funds needed to avoid the interruption of its services.\u00a0 Highlighting the special status of Jerusalem, he called for unfettered access to the holy sites for Jews, Muslims and Christians and condemned any attempts to deny or relativize the historical connection and profound meaning of these places to each religion, which would only reinforce prejudice and mistrust.<\/p>\n

SAUD HAMAD GHANEM HAMAD ALSHAMSI (United Arab Emirates<\/u>) expressed support for the Palestinian people in fulfilling their legitimate aspirations to self\u2011determination.\u00a0 Highlighting the need to prevent anyone from undermining efforts towards peace and stability, he cautioned against a pattern of managing crises rather than resolving them.\u00a0 In this context, he recommended regional and international initiatives aimed at advancing the Middle East peace process, including efforts by Egypt to achieve an intra\u2011Palestinian reconciliation and a restoration of calm.\u00a0 Condemning Israel\u2019s \u201cbelligerent behaviour\u201d \u2014 notably the promulgation of a Jewish nation\u2011State law and the construction of settlements on occupied Palestinian territories \u2014 he said such illegitimate practices represent a major obstacle to peace efforts.\u00a0 At the same time, the world cannot ignore the deteriorating humanitarian and economic situation in the Palestinian territories, he said, renewing the call for Member States to increase their contributions to the Palestinian people.\u00a0 For its part, the United Arab Emirates has disbursed more than $65\u00a0million to\u00a0UNRWA.<\/p>\n

SAMUEL MONCADA (Venezuela<\/u>) said observance of a day of solidarity for the Palestinian people offers an opportunity to reach a lasting solution to the question of Palestine.\u00a0 Voicing support for an independent State of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital, he denounced ongoing Israeli violations, including attempts to change the demographic composition of Jerusalem.\u00a0 He rejected any measure to alter the\u00a0corpus separatum<\/em>status of Jerusalem and deplored the upsurge of violence in Gaza.\u00a0 Calling for an end to illegal settlements and detentions, he recognized UNRWA initiatives to promote the rights of Palestinian refugees.\u00a0 The Â鶹APP must provide the resources needed for the Agency to effectively pursue its mandate.\u00a0 \u201cWe support the quest for a lasting solution to the question of Palestine based on a two\u2011State solution,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

MALEEHA LODHI (Pakistan<\/u>) said that ever since the Assembly adopted a resolution partitioning the mandate of Palestine into two States 71\u00a0years ago, the tragedy of the Palestinian people has remained an unremitting tale of broken promises and unfulfilled rights.\u00a0 Today, many warn that the entire region can plunge into a fresh vortex of violence.\u00a0 The world unfortunately seems to have grown so accustomed to the disastrous events taking place in the occupied Palestine territory that the current failure to reach a peace deal seems to have become the new normal.\u00a0 \u201cBut, let me remind this parliament of the world that there is nothing normal about the pain and suffering faced every day by the Palestinian people,\u201d she said, citing a series of unfortunate events, including the decision by some countries to relocate their embassies to Jerusalem, the decision by a major donor to cease all financial support to UNRWA and attempts to deflect the attention of the international community by bringing a resolution to the General Assembly that does nothing to pave the way to peace.\u00a0 Pakistan joins other Member States in rejecting this move and, by extension, the related resolution.<\/p>\n

JAMAL FARES ALROWAIEI (Bahrain<\/u>) said the question of Palestine remains unresolved despite numerous General Assembly resolutions on the matter.\u00a0 Drawing attention to the Committee\u2019s report, he said Israel, as the occupying Power, must protect civilians and called for an end to the illegal occupation of Gaza.\u00a0 \u201cPalestinians must enjoy their inalienable rights, including to build an independent State with East Jerusalem as its capital, based on 1967\u00a0borders,\u201d he said.\u00a0 The international community must address the suffering of Palestinians, including addressing Charter violations in the construction of settlements on occupied territory, and put pressure on Tel Aviv to end such practices and implement relevant Â鶹APP resolutions.\u00a0 Emphasizing that UNRWA contributes to improving the living standards of Palestinian refugees, he called for adequate resourcing the Agency.<\/p>\n

AMAL MUDALLALI (Lebanon<\/u>) said Palestinians have an inalienable right to build an independent State on their own territory.\u00a0 \u201cThe international community must build peace,\u201d she said, warning that despite numerous resolutions, the question of Palestine remains unresolved.\u00a0 Lebanon is committed to supporting the Palestinian people as their suffering continues under Israeli occupation.\u00a0 \u201cPrinciples of peace are undermined systematically,\u201d she said.\u00a0 Such resolutions are the pillar of a lasting solution to guarantee peace for all the people of the region.\u00a0 The legitimate rights of Palestinians are ignored as the situation on the ground deteriorates.\u00a0 \u201cIt is cruel to see attempts to cut funding for UNRWA,\u201d she said, adding that the expansion of Israeli settlements threatens the viability of a two\u2011State solution.\u00a0 She echoed Arab countries\u2019 calls on Israel to support peace efforts and to withdraw from all occupied territories.<\/p>\n

WU HAITAO (China<\/u>) said finding a comprehensive and just solution is a common aspiration and in the interest of the Palestinian people, the region and the world.\u00a0 Calling on all parties to exercise restraint and implement relevant Â鶹APP resolutions, he said the international community must scale up its funding of UNRWA.\u00a0 A two\u2011State solution is the only comprehensive, just and lasting solution to the question of Palestine.\u00a0 He called on all parties to implement Security Council resolution 2334\u00a0(2016) and take immediate measures to prevent violence against civilians.\u00a0 Parties who have major influence in the Middle East should play a constructive role and break the impasse in the peace process.\u00a0 All parties should strive to reach a balanced solution based on relevant Security Council resolutions.\u00a0 The conflict and confrontation continue and the developments on the ground are worrying, he said.\u00a0 The international community should promote dialogue and ensure that parties turn stability into lasting peace.\u00a0 He also expressed support for integrating the Palestinian State within the international community.<\/p>\n

TORE HATTREM (Norway<\/u>) said a comprehensive resolution addressing the final status issues and aspirations of Israel and Palestine is long overdue.\u00a0 \u201cOnly the two\u2011State solution can provide durable peace and security for both parties,\u201d he said.\u00a0 Voicing concern over the situation in Gaza, he said the period of 11\u00a0to 13\u00a0November experienced one of the fiercest exchanges of fire since 2014.\u00a0 Norway chaired a ministerial level meeting of the international donor group to Palestine on 27\u00a0September, which welcomed the Â鶹APP humanitarian package to Gaza and called for its urgent implementation.\u00a0 \u201cGaza is facing severe economic, humanitarian and social challenges,\u201d he said, calling for improved access to clean water and energy in the territory.\u00a0 Hamas bears a major share of the responsibility for the situation in Gaza, he said, expressing support for Egyptian\u2011led efforts to facilitate Palestinian reconciliation.\u00a0 \u201cIsrael, for its part, must lift the extensive restrictions on the movement of people and goods into and out of Gaza,\u201d he said, adding that UNRWA has been providing essential services to and contributes to regional stability.<\/p>\n

MOHAMMED HUSSEIN BAHR ALULOOM (Iraq<\/u>), said the Palestinian people have great hope for the future despite the deprivation of their fundamental rights.\u00a0 Supporting efforts to educate the international community about the relevance of International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, he called for their rights to be respected in line with Â鶹APP resolutions.\u00a0 Meanwhile, Iraq is alarmed over the level of suffering felt in Palestine at the hands of Israel.\u00a0 Noting that Israeli settlements continue to expand in the West Bank, he said such initiatives deprive Palestinians of the ability to establish an independent State.\u00a0 \u201cA solution to the Palestinian question can only be reached through the establishment of a Palestinian State based on 1967 borders,\u201d he said, rejecting all violations of international law related to the status of Jerusalem.\u00a0 The international community must recognize the Palestinian State in order to consolidate peace in the Middle East, he concluded.<\/p>\n

LUIS HOMERO BERM\u00daDEZ \u00c1LVAREZ (Uruguay<\/u>), noting that 71\u00a0years have passed since the adoption of the resolution on the partition on Palestine, said the arrangement was not undertaken in accordance with the original plan.\u00a0 Uruguay is a staunch supporter of the two\u2011State solution and of the right of Israel and Palestine to live in peace within safe and recognized borders.\u00a0 Palestine\u2019s ability to exercise its right to self\u2011determination is a precondition for peace in the region.\u00a0 Noting that his country has recognized the State of Palestine, he said the international community must encourage parties to return to negotiations to find a lasting solution to the conflict.\u00a0 \u201cTo reach this end, parties must respect international law,\u201d he said, warning that a mutually acceptable solution is currently far from reach.\u00a0 Uruguay remains concerned about Israel\u2019s settlement policy and its demolition of Palestinian houses.\u00a0 \u201cSettlements are illegal under international law,\u201d he said, adding that the practice makes a two\u2011State solution unviable.<\/p>\n

DIAN TRIANSYAH DJANI\u00a0(Indonesia<\/u>) noted that the yearly International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People appears to be aimed more at keeping the hopes of the Palestinian population alive than seeking a solution to the problem.\u00a0 All Israeli State organs deploy tactics in breach of international law and Â鶹APP resolutions.\u00a0 Israel\u2019s settlement policy reflects its ambitions in the region, he continued, expressing regret that the Â鶹APP has been unable to stop these illegal acts and protect Palestinian civilians.\u00a0 Peace will only be achieved if countries respect their commitments under international law, he said, calling on Member States that have not done so to recognize the State of Palestine so both parties to the conflict can stand on equal footing.\u00a0 \u201cThe sad reality we are witnessing now is of a \u2018one\u2011State solution,\u2019 as the performance of the Security Council lags far behind the cause of justice and the world\u2019s expectation,\u201d he said.\u00a0 Turning to Gaza, he said Israeli actions there amount to collective punishment, which is a violation of international law.<\/p>\n

TAREK FATHI MOHAMED MOHAMED TAYEL (Egypt<\/u>) said Israel\u2019s occupation of Palestine is now 51\u00a0years old and has transitioned into a semi\u2011permanent form.\u00a0 The international community has always called for Palestinians and Israelis to coexist side\u2011by\u2011side in peace.\u00a0 However, Israel has fostered conditions that undermine efforts to achieve a two\u2011State solution.\u00a0 \u201cRecognition of Israel as an independent State must be accompanied by the recognition of Palestine as an independent State,\u201d he said.\u00a0 The annual renewal of efforts by the international community to resolve the crisis is the only silver lining for the people of Palestine, he said, adding that until the people of Israel and Palestine recognize each other\u2019s rights, peace will be unattainable.\u00a0 He called for a return to negotiations based on a two\u2011State solution, warning against populist rhetoric that will worsen the crisis.\u00a0 All parties must respect international law, he said.<\/p>\n

For information media. Not an official record.<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

SEVENTY-THIRD SESSION,\u00a042ND MEETING (PM) GA\/12095 29 NOVEMBER 2018 fran\u00e7ais video The international community must take urgent action to end the suffering of the Palestinian people, ensure that Israel abides by all international laws and promote the conditions where two\u2011State talks can flourish, the General Assembly heard today as it began a debate on the question […]<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":172,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"template":"template-page.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"country":[672,690,759,810,885,891,909,921,933,5609,963,1029,1035,1593,1197,1209,1218],"document-category":[2433,1329,2805,4389],"document-source":[1753,1365,1897],"committee-meeting":[],"document-subject":[1749,1905,2473,2741],"entity":[1729],"document-language":[6542,6541],"class_list":["post-168876","document","type-document","status-publish","hentry","country-argentina","country-bahrain","country-china","country-egypt","country-indonesia","country-iraq","country-jordan","country-kuwait","country-lebanon","country-libya","country-maldives","country-norway","country-pakistan","country-palestine-state-of","country-united-arab-emirates","country-uruguay","country-venezuela","document-category-french-text","document-category-press-release","document-category-video","document-category-webcast","document-source-ceirpp","document-source-general-assembly","document-source-united-nations-department-of-public-information-dpi","document-subject-palestine-question","document-subject-peace-proposals-and-efforts","document-subject-solidarity-day","document-subject-statehood-related","entity-united-nations-system","document-language-english","document-language-french"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document\/168876","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/document"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/172"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document\/168876\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=168876"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"country","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/country?post=168876"},{"taxonomy":"document-category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document-category?post=168876"},{"taxonomy":"document-source","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document-source?post=168876"},{"taxonomy":"committee-meeting","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/committee-meeting?post=168876"},{"taxonomy":"document-subject","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document-subject?post=168876"},{"taxonomy":"entity","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/entity?post=168876"},{"taxonomy":"document-language","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/document-language?post=168876"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}