New york: The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Monday conducted its routine monthly briefing on 'The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question'. The meeting focused on the ongoing challenges and potential opportunities for peace in the region.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, Ramiz Alakbarov, Deputy Special Coordinator and Resident Coordinator at the Office of the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, addressed the Council via video link. He expressed a sense of "renewed hope" and encouraged the Council to "seize the opportunity" to create a more stable future for Palestinians, Israelis, and the broader region. Alakbarov acknowledged that the ceasefire in Gaza has mostly held, but emphasized the need to transition from emergency aid to long-term community rebuilding in Gaza, where the damage remains extensive.
The briefing also featured interventions from several member states. Pakistan's delegate described the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories as "dire," citing ongoing ceasefire violations and increased violence in the West Bank. The delegate called for the implementation of UNSC Resolution 2803 (2025) to promote Palestinian governance and ensure adherence to the ceasefire, humanitarian access, and an end to illegal Israeli settlements.
Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Charg© d'Affaires to the UN, echoed the need for the full implementation of UNSC Resolution 2803 (2025), advocating for an International Stabilization Force and expedited humanitarian aid in Gaza. He highlighted the necessity of stability in the West Bank and called for accountability for violence and arson attacks.
Algeria's UN Ambassador, Amar Bendjama, condemned the ongoing violence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, citing over 310 Palestinian deaths. He criticized Israel for hindering humanitarian aid and called for decisive action to maintain the ceasefire and ensure accountability for crimes aimed at obstructing a future Palestinian state.
The briefing underscored the complex dynamics in the Middle East and the pressing need for international cooperation to address humanitarian needs and foster a long-term peace process.