New York, 13 November 2025 

Mr. Chair,

The Holy See is deeply concerned by the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East, a region that is rich in faith, history and culture, yet still plagued by cycles of division and conflict. The international community must continue to work tirelessly to foster peace, stability, and fraternity for all peoples in the region.

The Holy See reiterates its support for the two States - Israel and Palestine - living side by side in peace and security, within internationally recognized borders. Genuine progress can only be achieved through multilateralism, patient dialogue and inclusive cooperation, not through the use of force.

Mr. Chair,

For more than seven decades, UNRWA has carried out an essential mission mandated by this Organization. Across Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Palestine, it continues to provide emergency relief and comprehensive humanitarian assistance in the form of education, healthcare, food assistance and social services. The Agency especially supports those who are most vulnerable, children, women and the elderly, offering them hope, protection and the possibility of a dignified life.

The Holy See conveys its sorrow and offers its prayers for the numerous casualties among UNRWA personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty. My Delegation calls for international humanitarian law to be respected, and for the safe, sustained and unimpeded access to humanitarian assistance. This is both a moral duty and a legal obligation under international law.

The Holy See deplores the attacks on UNRWA facilities, including offices, schools and hospitals. Such facilities, together with places of worship must remain inviolable spaces that provide protection and care for civilians.

Mr. Chair,

The Holy See considers it vital that the work of UNRWA remains firmly rooted in the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence. These principles must also guide the recruitment, administration and activities of local staff. Respecting these principles is essential if the Agency is to remain a trusted instrument of solidarity and peace.

Supporting UNRWA is very important because it sustains the lives of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians who otherwise would have no other source of help. Therefore, Holy See calls upon all Member States to renew and strengthen their political and financial support for UNRWA.

Finally, my Delegation would like to emphasize the importance of safeguarding UNRWA’s mandate. Any consideration of modifying it should take place within the framework of the General Assembly, reflecting the collective will and shared responsibility of all Member States.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.