Mr. President,

I brief the Council today on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

One year into the conflict in Gaza, the devastation is immeasurable. Over a million people have been displaced multiple times. Entire neighborhoods have been levelled. The health system has been shattered. Schools, universities, mosques, and churches have been destroyed. The scale of destruction is staggering and the suffering of civilians is unconscionable.

Marking One Year

On 7 October 2024, the Middle East entered a catastrophic cycle of violence that has cost tens of thousands of lives, wounded hundreds of thousands more, and displaced nearly the entire population of Gaza. The attacks on Israeli communities that day — the killing of civilians, the taking of hostages — were acts of terror that shocked the world. The response has resulted in a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza that has also shocked the world.

The UN has been unequivocal: the protection of civilian life is non-negotiable. International humanitarian law applies at all times, to all parties. There are no exceptions.

Hostages

We continue to call for the unconditional and immediate release of all hostages still held in Gaza. Their suffering — and the suffering of their families — is beyond measure. Their release must be achieved without delay.

Gaza: Current Situation

As of this briefing, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. Famine conditions persist in northern Gaza. Aid delivery continues to fall far short of need. The health system has not recovered. Shelter is inadequate for the displaced population approaching winter.

West Bank

In the West Bank, settlement construction has reached record levels. Settler violence has increased dramatically. Israeli military operations in Palestinian cities have intensified. The Palestinian Authority is on the verge of financial collapse.

The Path Forward

The international community must act. The window for a two-state solution is closing. The cost of inaction will be borne by generations to come. We call on this Council, and on every member of the international community, to take the decisive steps required to stop the violence, address the humanitarian emergency, and lay the groundwork for a just and lasting peace.

Thank you.