UN Security Council Convenes to Address Escalating Tensions in the Occupied West Bank

United nations: The UN Security Council convened a ministerial meeting to deliberate on the ongoing situation in the Middle East, with a particular focus on the Palestinian issue. The session was led by Yvette Cooper, the UK's Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, as the United Kingdom holds the Council's presidency for February. According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the meeting took place against the backdrop of recent decisions by Israel's security cabinet, which have drawn widespread international condemnation. On February 8, measures were approved to tighten control over Areas A and B in the occupied West Bank, facilitating land acquisition and expanding Israeli administrative authority. A subsequent decision on February 15 authorized a land registration process in Area C, requiring Palestinians to prove ownership or face confiscation-a move affecting approximately 60% of the West Bank. During the meeting, Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo high lighted the critical juncture at which the Middle East stands. She emphasized the necessity for decisive actions by both the involved parties and the Council to ensure sustained peace. DiCarlo underscored that consolidating the ceasefire in Gaza and alleviating suffering, in accordance with international law, are crucial steps toward stabilization and recovery. She also echoed the Secretary-General's concerns about Israel's recent enforcement measures, suggesting they represent a significant expansion of Israeli authority in the occupied West Bank and called for their immediate reversal. The Russian Federation's delegate criticized Israel's actions as attempts to irrevocably alter the status quo in the West Bank, potentially breaching several agreements, including the Oslo II Agreements and associated protocols. Mohammad Ishaq Dar of Pakistan reiterated his country's commitment to diplomatic efforts for a permanent cessation of hostilities and a just resolution to the conflict. He, along with foreign ministe rs from the Group of Eight Arab and Islamic countries, condemned Israel's expansion of control over the West Bank, labeling it a violation of international law. Yvette Cooper advocated for the decommissioning of Hamas's weapons and emphasized the need for preventing destabilization in the West Bank. Somalia's representative condemned Israel's recognition of a secessionist group in Somalia as an infringement on the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The US representative highlighted the progress achieved in Phase I of the peace plan and urged support for the Board of Peace, which is set to announce significant pledges for rebuilding efforts. The representative noted the reopening of the Rafah crossing and an increase in aid deliveries to Gaza as positive developments.