Statement by the Republic of Slovenia at the briefing on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question

Thank you Madam President,

I would like to start by thanking AS Khiari for his briefing and Ms. Efron and Mr. Levy for their testimonies. As always, today’s meeting is a sobering reminder that peace in the Middle East without an investment of astounding efforts will stay illusive. The region is shaking. The trembles are affecting lives of individuals on a daily basis and without an end in sight.

Madam President,

In Gaza, strikes, including on densely populated areas, displacement and widespread destruction carry on in flagrant violation of international humanitarian law. They are coupled with extreme hunger, disease, severe limitations to humanitarian assistance, and attacks on and looting of humanitarian convoys and humanitarian actors. International humanitarian law is clear regarding the rapid and unhindered delivery of aid. Suffering of civilians is intensifying, including of hostages still held in Gaza. All of these are further exacerbated by complete absence of law and order. We repeat that only a ceasefire will pave the way to peace.

In the occupied West Bank, the advancement of new housing units is appalling and we underline our longstanding position on the illegality of settlements: they are a violation of international law. We underline, once again and in line with the ICJ Advisory Opinion: the occupation must end. The downward spiral in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, has to end. This includes demolitions and seizures of property. We deplore the intensification of settler related violence as well as killings and injuries, including during operations, demonstrations, clashes, air strikes and other incidents.

We share the concern about the large number of Palestinians, including children, detained by Israeli forces and in administrative detention. Numerous reports of torture and other ill-treatment, including sexual violence are profoundly distressing. Access of independent monitoring bodies to detention facilities must be ensured.

We are also deeply concerned over the deep economic crisis affecting the Palestinian economy, prolonging and deepening the humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people. We support efforts to address Palestinian Government’s fiscal challenges, strengthening its governance capacity and preparing it to resume its responsibilities in Gaza.

Madam President,

Slovenia continues supporting the efforts and the role of the United Nations. We praise the work of the UN works on the ground, including of UNRWA, to address the suffering of civilians. We repeat our call to the Israeli Government not to implement laws concerning UNRWA. The Agency contributes to the broader efforts toward achieving a two-state solution, which is the only just and sustainable solution for peace and security for both Palestinians and Israelis.

We admire the dedication of UN representatives and in this regard, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Special Coordinator Wennesland for his work.

I thank you Madam President.

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