The security situation in the West Bank and Occupied Palestinian Territories continues to deteriorate: UK statement at the Security Council
Statement by UK Political Coordinator Fergus Eckersley at the UN Security Council meeting on the Middle East.
Thank you, Madam President. We thank the Special Coordinator for his helpful update. We also take good note of Dr Zogby’s briefing.
Madam President, as we’ve heard, the security situation in the West Bank and Occupied Palestinian Territories continues to deteriorate. Last week saw more loss of life and showed how quickly and unpredictably events can change. It also underscored the urgent need for restraint, calm and respect for the dignity of human life.
Seven people, including two children, were killed in an Israeli raid in the city of Jenin in the West Bank. Whilst the UK supports Israel’s right to defend itself, its security operations must be in line with international humanitarian law and every effort must be made to avoid civilian casualties.
Terror attacks, such as the killing of four Israelis near the settlement of Eli by Hamas-affiliated gunmen on 20 June are barbaric, unjustifiable, and undermine the safety and security of all Israelis and Palestinians. The UK condemns these attacks without qualification. The glorification of these killers by Hamas and other organisations is abhorrent and heightens tensions where de-escalation is needed.
We also unequivocally condemn recent scenes of settler violence in Turums Ayya where homes and property were burned down and civilians attacked, resulting in the death of one Palestinian. All perpetrators of these hate crimes need to be held to account, and we urge that steps are taken to prevent similar crimes happening again.
Madame President, turning now to the report by the Special Coordinator, I will make three points.
First, the report demonstrates the damaging effect of what it calls the “relentless expansion” of settlements on the prospects for peace. The UK’s long-standing position remains unchanged: we oppose settlements, which are illegal under international law, and call on Israel to cease and reverse its policy of supporting their expansion.
Second, the report also makes clear the value and importance of the dialogue that took place between senior Israelis and Palestinians earlier this year to build trust and manage tensions. We echo the report’s call for all sides to honour the commitments made in Aqaba and Sharm el-Sheikh.
Finally, the UK shares the report’s concerns about UNRWA’s funding shortfalls. The agency provides vital services and hope to millions and we call on all member states to work together to address this shortfall urgently.
Thank you.