Friday, 12 July 2024

Mr. President,

My Delegation would like to take this opportunity to reiterate its support for the mandate of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East  (UNRWA), particularly in light of the current circumstances.

It is with great sadness that we reflect on the tragic events that have unfolded in Israel and in Palestine since the atrocious terroristic attack against the Israeli population on 7 October last year. These developments have had a profoundly negative impact on the lives of countless innocent individuals.

The Holy See would like to reiterate the crucial role of UNRWAin addressing the basic needs of over 5 million Palestinian refugees in the Middle East, especially in the context of the ongoing catastrophic humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. Consequently, the Holy See reaffirms its pledge of financial support and encourages all Member States to contribute to UNRWA or resume contributions in order to support the Agency’s crucial efforts.

In the meantime, the Holy See considers it of the utmost importance to preserve and promote the neutrality of UNRWA in order to fulfill its mandate in accordance with Res A/RES/302 (IV), 8 December 1949.

Mr. President,

My Delegation would like to highlight the following:

The Holy See urges the parties involved in the hostilities in Gaza to engage in constructive dialogue on peace proposals, including the one outlined in UNSC Resolution S/RES/2735 (2024).

The Holy See calls for a ceasefire on all fronts, the immediate release of the Israeli hostages in Gaza, the unhindered delivery of essential aid to the Palestinian people, and respect for international humanitarian law by all parties involved, without exception.

In this context, the Holy See calls for the reopening of all Gaza’s entry points to facilitate the delivery of the much-needed humanitarian assistance, including food, water and medicine, to the suffering population in Gaza. It also emphasizes the importance of an orderly distribution of food and supplies, with particular attention being paid to children and the needy.

Furthermore, the Holy See reiterates that in any conflict, places that must guarantee the protection of the civilian population, such as schools, hospitals and places of worship, and UN Agencies’ facilities cannot be used for or be targeted by military operations. It is incumbent upon all parties to ensure the safety of humanitarian personnel, who are engaged in tireless efforts to assist those in need.

Mr. President,

I would be remiss if I did not conclude with the recent compelling appeal of Pope Francis: “All of us must work and commit ourselves to achieving a lasting peace, where the State of Palestine and the State of Israel can live side by side, breaking down the walls of enmity and hatred. We must all cherish Jerusalem so that it will become the city of fraternal encounter among Christians, Jews and Muslims, protected by a special internationally guaranteed status.” [1] 

Thank you, Mr. President.

 

[1]  Pope Francis, Address during the Tenth Anniversary of the Invocation for Peace in the Holy Land, 7 June 2024.