General Assembly: 15th plenary meeting, 80th session

Good morning. The 15th Plenary Meeting of the General Assembly is called to order. The Assembly will begin its consideration of Agenda Item 64, entitled Use of the Veto, to hold a debate pursuant to Resolution 276/262 of April 26th, 2022, on the situation as to which the veto was cast at the 10,000th meeting of the Security Council on September 18th, 2025. The documentation under this item is listed in the Journal of the United Nations. I will now make a statement as the President of the General Assembly.

A simple no.

It might look mundane whenever a permanent member of the Security Council casts a veto. An almost effortless act. Yet the effects are consequential. They reverberate far beyond the Security Council chamber, beyond New York, felt by communities across the world. A veto can extinguish hope for those trapped in conflict. It falls hardest on those who turn to the United Nations for peace, for relief, for a path out of suffering, for hope. And when it results in constant blockages, it can damage the credibility of this whole institution. The Charter makes clear that the Council carries the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security under Article 24. Yet the veto is not a privilege. It is a responsibility entrusted to 5 nations to be exercised rarely, in the spirit of peace and security for all. That responsibility must never forget the lives it touches. Lives like those in Gaza, where the situation is catastrophic. In the past days, weeks and months, Men, women, and children have been killed by sheltering or waiting for food. Those who survive are mourning the cold tents. They are starving. They are searching for clean water. Thousands of children without parents. At the same time, hostages remain in captivity in unimaginable conditions. Their families wait in torment, not knowing whether they are alive or dead. A situation that is politically and morally unacceptable, and where the world is wondering where the United Nations is. The situation in Gaza is precisely the kind of crisis where the United Nations is called upon to act. Where failure to act undermines the credibility of this organization itself. Therefore, we owe it not only to the people of Gaza, but also to our institution, if we are to preserve faith in it, to act now. Especially as it is clear what must be done. The world calls for an immediate ceasefire. For unhindered access to humanitarian aid, and for the immediate release of all hostages. As a deeply regrettable deadlock of the principal organ of the United Nations tasked with maintaining peace and security erodes global trust in the United Nations itself, it is therefore important that today member states take up this responsibility by bringing this topic to the General Assembly, the heart of the United Nations, through the debate on the use of the veto. The veto initiative, as many of you know, existed since 2022. In that time, 20 vetoes have been cast. And each time, the General Assembly has stepped in to provide an essential measure of accountability. As the United Nations' most representative organ, which is empowered by Article 10 of the Charter to deliberate on matters of peace and security. Each time this Assembly has been convened, it ensured that the veto is not exercised in silence, but subject to the scrutiny of the international community. Excellencies, also today the Assembly underlines by this plenary meeting that it is not the United Nations as an institution failing on Gaza. UN staff is even risking their lives to overcome the blockage of humanitarian aid. And the wider membership of this organization has spoken with clarity. The resolution vetoed in the Security Council contained the core demands that were already adopted by this Assembly: an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire respected by all parties; the immediate and dignified release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups; and the immediate lifting of all restrictions on the entry and distribution of humanitarian aid throughout Gaza, delivered safely and at scale by the United Nations and its partners in respect to international humanitarian law and its obligations. These same demands were reaffirmed only weeks ago in the New York Declaration endorsed by a large majority of states. And the good news is that since the moment the veto debate has been put on the agenda, these demands, together with last week's high-level international conference on the two-state solution, have already had an impact, including the clear call that annexation will never be accepted. On Monday, the President of the United States presented a plan building on earlier proposals from Arab Muslim countries, European states, the United States itself, and many, many other countries around the world for an immediate and permanent ceasefire. A massive increase in humanitarian aid, and the release of all hostages. These calls now have to be implemented without delay or reservation by both the Israeli government and Hamas. If implemented, it would finally offer the opportunity to end the war in Gaza, as outlined by the many GA resolutions, We must seize this chance to end the suffering in Gaza now. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict cannot be resolved through endless war, permanent occupation, or recurrent terror. The only path to lasting peace, security, and dignity for both Palestinians and Israelis is a two-state solution. After the war, as many countries and the General Assembly underlined at the beginning of this week, We need sustained dialogue, credible negotiation, and tangible steps towards releasing— realizing the two-state solution in line with the UN Charter, international law, relevant UN resolutions, and the New York Declaration. That is the path to justice, that is the path to peace, and that is how we uphold the principles and the credibility of this organization. I now give the floor to his distinguished representative of the United States.

Thank you, Thank you, Madam President. Colleagues, the United States vetoed this resolution is it failed in a very fundamental task. It failed to condemn Hamas, and it failed to recognize Israel's right to defend itself, amongst other serious defects. Council members ignored when the United States made it clear that this resolution was unacceptable. Hamas continues To this day, right now as we speak, to hold 48 hostages. Those who remain alive are captive in a living hell. We have seen the chilling videos. We have seen the images of how Hamas is starving these hostages, how they're forcing them to dig their own graves on camera. And we have heard— just yesterday, I met with 2 survivors, and we have heard their heartrending testimony. We have heard from the freed hostages as well on how Hamas has brutalized and sexually assaulted them during their captivity. The reality is that Hamas is responsible for starting and continuing this war. Israel has repeatedly accepted proposed terms that would end the war. Including just this week on Monday, September 29th, just 48 hours ago, with President Trump at the White House. President Trump's comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict sets a path forward for the immediate end of the war, the immediate release of all 48 hostages, the complete disarmament of Hamas, the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip, and the economic redevelopment of Gaza. This plan, which has been accepted by Israel and has broad support from a number of partners, from a number of Arab states, from Muslim-majority states, from Turkey, from Indonesia, will allow Gaza to begin a peaceful and prosperous future while ensuring that Hamas no longer threatens Israel while ensuring that this can never happen again. We urge Hamas to accept the deal on the table. We call on all member states to give this plan their full support and demand that Hamas immediately accept this agreement. But turning back to the issue at hand, the resolution that the United States vetoed on September 18th had numerous serious defects beyond its failure to condemn Hamas. Essentially, the United States made it clear that we would not accept a resolution that does not condemn Hamas, that does not call on Hamas to disarm and leave the Gaza Strip, that does not call for an immediate release of hostages, does not acknowledge the problems with aid diversion, in the Gaza Strip, and that makes any false equivalence between Israel's right to defend itself and the actions of Hamas. We vetoed the resolution because it did not meet these conditions. Colleagues, President Trump's plan offers us the opportunity to free the hostages, bring an end to this horrific conflict and all of its suffering, give the Gazans a future free from Hamas that they deserve, and pave the way for the entire Middle East to move to a new chapter of peace and prosperity. And we call upon all of you, all member states, to join us in supporting it. So my question to you all, Where is the outcry? Where are the demands for Hamas to accept this offer of peace? Where are the demands for Hamas to end the suffering? They could end it today by accepting this offer. And by doing that, we all together can ensure that this never, ever happens again. Madam President, I thank you.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United States, and since this was his first statement in the Assembly, I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome you, dear Ambassador, to the General Assembly. Welcome, His Excellency Mike Waltz. I now give the floor to the next speaker, the observer of the observer, State of Palestine.

Madam President! Allow me at the outset to renew our gratitude to Algeria and the elected 10 members of the Security Council for putting forward yet again a ceasefire resolution, and to all Council members that voted in favor of the draft that was blocked by a veto. In the last 10 days, a lot has happened at the political and diplomatic levels, but also many more Palestinians were killed and maimed. We must ensure such a ceasefire is achieved without any delay. Madam President, Palestinian lives are not less sacred. They are not less worthy. They are not less valuable. Over 2 million lives wait to be saved in Gaza. They are struggling to survive in the face of unimaginable horrors being inflicted on them, even as we speak, by Israel, the occupying power. Ensuring their survival and saving their lives, that is the utmost priority. It is our number one priority since the beginning of this aggression almost 2 years ago, and we were able to unite almost the entire international community for accomplishing that noble objective. It is impossible to explain that for 2 years the massacres have continued. We have a duty to bring the killing to an end, to bring the genocide to an end. Ceasefire saves lives. It saves Palestinian lives. It saves hostages' lives. It ends famine. It restores life wherever it is still possible to do so. Over the course of the last week, the entire world rallied around clear objectives as a culmination of 2 years of outrage and grief and of collective efforts aimed at finally bringing this nightmare to an end. From countries that recognize the State of Palestine— we thank all of them and urge others to follow them— to those who adopted measures to end the war and occupation, to those who pledged their political and financial and humanitarian support, to those who pledged protection to end the famine and stop the massacres. From the Madrid Group to the Hague Group to the countries that gathered at the International Peace Conference chaired— co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France and endorsed the New York Declaration and took part in the global alliance For the implementation of the two-state solution, the world mobilized for an end of the war on the Palestinian people, for the self-determination of the Palestinian people, for an independent and sovereign Palestinian state, for the two-state solution. They mobilized for peace. They mobilized for peace. Palestine is committed to the full implementation of the New York Declaration. So are you, because you voted overwhelmingly to adopt the New York Declaration, which charts a clear and irreversible path to freedom, peace, and regional integration. It will do its part and expects and urges others to do theirs. Madam President, High-Level Week also witnessed important discussions between President Trump and regional leaders to end the war and advance peace. We welcome the important efforts of President Trump to end the bloodshed and save lives. We also welcome his clear rejection of annexation of Palestinian land and of forcible displacement of the Palestinian people that was reflected in the plan he announced. Ending the onslaught is the most sacred goal, given the horrors that every day brings upon 2 million Palestinian children, women and men in Gaza struggling to survive. We hope that Qatar, Egypt, and Türkiye, which are currently discussing with Hamas, will succeed in their mediation efforts to bring an end to the bloodshed in Gaza. We reiterate Palestine's readiness to work with President Trump and the U.S. administration, with Saudi Arabia and regional actors, with European and international partners in the pursuit of an immediate end of the war and the massacres, a surge of all necessary humanitarian aid and protection for our people, the release of hostages and prisoners, an end of the famine, full Israeli withdrawal, the independence of the State of Palestine, the realization of the rights of our people, and just and lasting peace in our region. As we stated by— as was stated by the United States, it is for Palestinians to govern themselves. And as reaffirmed by the Security Council, the West Bank, the Gaza Strip must be reunified under the Palestinian National Authority. There is a critical role for regional and international actors and mechanisms in support of Palestinian governance and independence, statehood, and not as a substitute to them. Not as a substitute to them.

Thank you.

Our ability to work together will be critical for success. The task before us is monumental and will require collective and coordinated efforts. Madam President, there were plans before, but there was never such momentum for peace demanded by the duty we all share to bring an end to the horrors our region witnessed the last 2 years and to end the colossal human suffering that shames us all. What is the measure of success? It is Palestinian self-determination and the independence of the State of Palestine. That is the single most important contribution to peace. And a legacy-defining achievement. It will change the face of the region and the fate of its peoples. It will lead to the implementation of the two-state solution and to the peace and stability we all need. It will pave the way for regional integration, a prospect many thought and still think impossible, and that is within grasp if we collectively decide to rid this region of wars and occupation and finally choose shared peace, shared security, and shared prosperity. It is time to end this conflict once and for all, so people never experience such pain and loss again, and all peoples can live in peace and security. Peace, a billion times much better than war. Peace saves lives. War takes lives away from us. Madam President, the Palestinian people have a right to life, to liberty, to security, and to dignity. All peoples have a right to live in peace and security. What we need is not a pause in the violence and the injustice, but an end to all of it. Violence is an impasse. It must not be fueled nor tolerated. It must be stopped. And the Palestinian people must be availed protection without delay— protection for their lives, their dignity, their humanity. We will not relent in our rejection of violence against civilians, Palestinian and Israeli. This is a legal, political, moral principle we will not abandon. Likewise, injustice must never be justified or shielded. It must be brought Palestine is committed to peace. We are the ones who need it most, and peace needs to be a shared objective to become a shared reality. We must all seize this opportunity to end the suffering and work for freedom and peace, regardless of how great the challenges are. Thank you, Mr. President. We owe it to those who were killed. We owe it to those who survived. We owe it to future generations. It is time for peace. Thank you very much, Madam President.

I thank the observer of the Observer State of Palestine. Next speaker is the representative of Israel.

Thank you.

Madam President, on Monday, President Trump put forward a roadmap to peace. Prime Minister Netanyahu accepted it. For the first time in many months, there is a clear path forward— a path to bring our hostages home— a framework to end the war. This framework gives hope. Hope that families will be reunited. Hope that the people of Gaza can find a brighter future. Hope that peace in our region is possible. It is an opportunity for nations to choose action over theater. to support practical steps toward peace. Many countries have already pledged their support. Hamas has not yet accepted it. The decision is theirs. But they should know this: it can be done the easy way, or it can be done the hard way, but it will be done.

Thank you.

If they reject the plan, Israel will finish the job and bring every hostage home. This is what action looks like. President Trump and his team worked day and night. They listened. They built a roadmap based on reality on the ground. Meanwhile, here in this Assembly, We have seen great shows of theater, long speeches, grand declarations, staged walkouts. But speeches do not free hostages. Words do not stop terror. Weeks ago, in the Security Council, we saw a draft resolution that failed to condemn Hamas for its massacre on October 7th. Failed to recognize Israel's right to defend itself, and legitimized lies that benefit terrorists. The U.S. vetoed it. We commend their moral clarity in doing so. The fact that we meet here today to recycle failed resolutions that do nothing for peace proves one truth: this body Israel accepted the roadmap because it meets our clear goals to bring the hostages home, to dismantle Hamas, and to guard against renewed aggression. But let me be clear: it is not Israel's plan. It is by no means perfect for us. It has required significant compromise and difficult choices. Believe me, it is not easy to make these concessions. With a heavy heart, we agreed to release 250 convicted terrorists serving life sentences, and 1,700 terrorists detained since the war began. With painful reluctance, we agreed to possible amnesty for Hamas leaders, the men behind October 7th. At great cost, we agreed to a phased withdrawal from Gaza. Despite these dilemmas, Israel has said yes. Many Arab states are welcoming it. Western democracies are supporting it. This is a coalition effort, not a unilateral move. Madam President, Israel has suffered. October 7th scarred our nation. Children murdered. Families destroyed. Communities burned. Yet Israel has chosen compromise for the sake of peace. So let us shift our focus this morning to where it should be. The attention of this Assembly and of the world must be on the roadmap that was presented. It is time for this Assembly, and for every state that claims to want peace, to apply pressure on Hamas. Demand their answer.

Demand the release of the hostages.

Demand disarmament. Madam President, Israel fights for its security, but also for its future. Our future is not endless war. Our future is peace. To see the day when the hostages return, when Hamas is dismantled, and when the tyranny of terror is ended once Enough with the UN theatre. Enough with the meaningless bureaucracy. This chamber has become a stage. The script is written in advance. The votes are decided before a word is spoken. Some of you today will continue with that, will ignore the roadmap on the table. and spend time on empty gestures. So instead of wasting time, I will do something that matters. While you perform, I will pray. Tonight, Jews around the world will gather for Yom Kippur, the holiest day of our year. Together, we will rise and plead, Avinu Malkeinu, our Father, Our King, release the captives. For us, this is not only a prayer. It is a vow. We will bring them home, either the easy way or the hard way, but it will be done. I will read an ancient prayer for the release of our hostages.

Amen.

Master of the universe, the one who saves and delivers, may he redeem in his great mercy our captives from the hand of cruel and harsh enemies. May he swiftly return them to their land to embrace sons and daughters, women and children, to serve you with awe and reverence, with joy and with full heart. And may your great name be sanctified through them in the eyes of all who live. Amen. May these words be heard not only in our synagogues tonight, but in your hearts as well. May this prayer remind you to keep the pressure on Hamas. May this prayer bring the hostages home and with them peace to our region. Thank you, Madam President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Israel. I now give the floor to His Excellency Bruno Rodríguez Parilla, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cuba.

Madam President, the government of the United States has once again, with its abuse of the privilege of the veto in the Security Council, blocked the international community's efforts to put an end to the massacre being perpetrated by Israel in Gaza. In so doing, the government of the United States has confirmed its historical complicity with the occupying power and has guaranteed impunity in the face of genocide, extermination, ethnic cleansing, collective punishment, and All of these are crimes against humanity. Far from contributing to international peace and security, which is the very raison d'être of this primary organ of the United Nations, the U.S. government, through its use of the veto, is serving to perpetuate the Zionist cruelty waged against the Palestinian people and also is becoming responsible for that very thing—

cruelty.

Thank you.

The US government is casting doubt on its alleged intention to steer just mediation efforts to achieve a lasting permanent ceasefire agreement. Sustained political, military, logistical, and financial support from the United States to Israel is a clear expression of double standards and of the bias which characterize the United States policy. Expressions of that very same bias and double standards include the recent visit to Israel by the US Secretary of State to support the crime, and can be seen too in their intention to silence the voice of our Palestinian brothers in this universal forum. The unilateral and arbitrary decision taken to revoke and deny visas to the members of the Palestinian delegation was a decision which prevented their due participation in That decision is a violation of the 1947 Headquarters Agreement. 15 Palestinian people die every day as a result of malnutrition. 12 of them are children. They are hostages of a colonial operation, of settlement activity, and of forced displacement from the territory which is rightfully theirs.

Thank you.

It is believed that at least 132,000 children under the age of 5 suffer from acute malnutrition and that more than 43,000 are at risk of death. The total number of deaths that have been confirmed as a result of the Israeli aggression in the Gaza Strip alone and since the 7th of October, 2023, now stands at 166,055. A further 168,346 people have been wounded and maimed. It is unconscionable that Israel continues to use hunger, the delivery of food and humanitarian aid, also as weapons of war. Depriving a civilian population under siege of water, electricity, medicines, and fuel is not a military Rather, it is a crime against humanity, an act of collective punishment, and a genocide. The Israeli government's scorn for the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, international law, and international humanitarian law, as well as the international community's appeals for peace, have— has also guided their attacks against other countries in the Middle East. such as Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and Yemen. The most recent such attack was a violation of the sovereignty of the State of Qatar. Qatar is a nation that has played a constructive role in mediation efforts, and that most recent attack is one more example of the aggressive nature of the Zionist regime and the aggressions it wages against neighbor states. There is an urgent need for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and for the withdrawal Israel must allow access of humanitarian aid at scale. This access must be unconditional and unrestricted, and the Israeli government must authorize the crucial work of UNRWA. Cuba reaffirms its commitment to and support for the Palestinian cause. We reaffirm our unflinching condemnation of Israel's genocide in Gaza. Waged with the aim of exterminating or expelling these people from these occupied lands. We reaffirm our belief that it is only through the two-state solution with the creation of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state within pre-1967 borders and with East Jerusalem as its capital— it is only with that that we will And with that, and with a solution which guarantees the refugees' right of return, that we will be able to achieve a just and lasting peace. The agreements and commitments reached during the International High-Level Conference for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution must be implemented without delay. The time has come to admit Palestine now as a full-fledged member of this organization. If the Security Council, powerless in the face of the abuse of the irksome privilege of the veto, continues to stand as an obstacle in the way of the fulfillment of that aspiration, it is up to the General Assembly as the most universal and representative body of the international community to declare that right unequivocally and to single out the obstacles and the parties that stand in the way of that right being fulfilled, they must do so with the greatest political rigor. More can be done. The Assembly, the General Assembly, is in a position to declare genocide and apartheid being committed by Israel for what they are— crimes against humanity. The General Assembly can urge member states to impose an arms embargo against Israel and can exclude this country from international organizations and conferences held under the aegis of the United Nations. The General Assembly must demand the opening of all border crossings, roadways, and humanitarian corridors to guarantee safe and unfettered humanitarian access. This must be done under the direct supervision of the United Nations. The General Assembly must also urge states able to do so to provide humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people. With that goal in mind, given that other proposals are on the table and given that the Security Council is proving itself powerless, we must urgently convene a resumed session of the 10th Emergency Special Session of the General Assembly. At that meeting, we will have an opportunity to analyze and adopt by majority a wide range of measures liable to put an end to the inaction of the United Nations. The Palestinian cause is not simply an unresolved political issue. It is a litmus test of the credibility of the multilateral system and is a litmus test of the UN's capacity to defend the purposes and principles for which it was founded. As We mark 80 years since its creation. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative and the Minister of Cuba. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Denmark on behalf of the elected 10 members of the United Nations Security Council.

Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the 10 elected members of the Security Council, namely Algeria, Greece, Guyana, Pakistan, Panama, the Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, Somalia, and my own country, Denmark. We, the E10, were elected by this very Assembly and entrusted with the solemn responsibility to maintain peace and security. It was in this spirit that we put forward a draft resolution aimed at addressing the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, including the declaration of famine in Gaza City, while also demanding the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas, suffering in captivity since the horrific attacks on October 7th. Madam President, for nearly 2 years, civilians in Gaza have endured a humanitarian crisis of catastrophic proportions. Vast areas lie in ruins. Homes, schools, hospitals, all reduced to rubble. Civilians have been forced to flee repeatedly, and the majority of population is now displaced with little access to safety or shelter. Hospitals are collapsing under impossible strain. All the while, aid deliveries remain heavily restricted. Food rots on the border while civilians starve on the other side. We are now all painfully aware that famine is present in Gaza. Entire families face daily shortages of food, clean water, medicine, and fuel. Children in particular bear the brunt, suffering from starvation, malnutrition, and disease. Meanwhile, the Israeli military campaign continues to expand in scope and intensity. particularly in Gaza City. The longer the conflict continues unmitigated, the deeper the humanitarian catastrophe will grow and the greater the risk of further regional escalation. As elected members, we believe that the Council should not remain silent in the face of such devastation. When civilians are subject to relentless suffering, it is our duty to respond with resolve. Madam President, the draft resolution had 3 urgent demands, demands that many in this Assembly have made time and time again. First, an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza respected by all parties. Second, the immediate, dignified, and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups. And third, that the government of Israel immediately and unconditionally lifts all restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza and ensures its safe and unhindered distribution to the population in need of such assistance, in line with international humanitarian law. Madam President, 14 members of the Council voted in favor of the draft resolution, with only one member voting against. We deeply regret that it was not adopted and that as a result, the Council was once again prevented from responding to the urgent needs in Gaza, and the suffering in the territory has been prolonged. We are encouraged now by recent indications of progress in the negotiations for a ceasefire. We welcome these efforts and hope that they will lead to a conclusive end to the hostilities in Gaza. In closing, the elected 10 members of the Security Council remain undeterred in our commitment to upholding the mandate of the Council to maintain international peace and security, to representing the will and the expectations of this Assembly. I thank you, Madam President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Denmark on behalf of the 10 elected members of the United Nations Security Council. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union on behalf of the European Union and its member states.

Madam President, I have the honor to speak on behalf of the European Union and its member states. We thank you, President, for convening this debate following the vote in the Security Council on September 18th, 2025. We also thank the E10 for their efforts in tabling a resolution which received the support of 14 Council members. The European Union welcomes President Trump's commitment to ending the war in Gaza, which offers a way out of this devastating conflict, ensuring an immediate ceasefire and release of all remaining hostages, and guaranteeing the provision of full humanitarian assistance to the Gaza Strip, with a central role for the UN and its agencies— all elements that have long constituted core European Union priorities. The EU deplores the fact that Hamas has not yet released unconditionally all the hostages that it holds and calls on Hamas to do so immediately. It also deplores the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, the unacceptable number of civilian casualties, especially children, and the levels of starvation. The IPC confirmed famine in the Gaza Governorate, where Gaza City is located. The EU calls for immediate and unimpeded humanitarian access in accordance with international law and reaffirms the urgency of full, rapid, safe, and unhindered access to humanitarian aid at scale for Palestinians in need, and of allowing and facilitating humanitarian workers and international organizations to operate safely and effectively inside Gaza. We call on Israel to fully comply with its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law. Suffering of the civilian population must stop. To that end, the EU High Representative maintained diplomatic engagement with Israeli authorities to facilitate the delivery and distribution of aid. However, the quantities distributed to the people in need remain insufficient as compared with the needs of the population. In light of this deteriorating situation, the President of the European Commission proposed a package of measures to address the situation on the ground. President, the European Union once again unequivocally condemns Hamas's brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks on October 7th, 2023. We reiterate that Hamas can have no role in Gaza's future and must never again be a threat to Israel. We affirm our readiness to engage with Arab partners as well as the United States on their proposals to chart a way forward on reconstruction, in Gaza and build a lasting Israeli-Palestinian peace with a credible pathway to Palestinian statehood. The EU urges all parties to comply with their obligations under international law, including international human rights law and international humanitarian law. President, we reiterate the essential role of UN agencies, including UNRWA, which provides crucial services to millions of people in Gaza, the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and across the region, including Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. The EU also strongly condemns the further escalation in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, following increased settler violence, intimidation, the destruction of homes and property, the expansion of illegal settlements, and also terrorist attacks against Israel. The EU will continue to work on further restrictive measures against extremist settlers and against entities and organizations that support them, as well as against Hamas. Last week, Madam President, at the UN General Assembly High-Level Week, the High-Level International Conference on the Two-State Solution, with thanks to France and Saudi Arabia, reaffirmed the unwavering commitment by world leaders to advancing a two-state solution as the only viable path toward a just and lasting peace. The Global Alliance Ministerial, co-chaired by the EU, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Norway ministers, also convened during High-Level Week and was an opportunity for the participant— participating ministers to discuss a decisive new phase of collective action building on the New York Declaration. The Global Alliance, as a political and Implementation Platform is one of the mechanisms to translate into action the broad international consensus enshrined in the New York Declaration, endorsed by 142 countries. The European Union will play a key role in taking this forward. We must guarantee that both Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace, security and dignity. The EU is ready to contribute to all efforts towards the two-state solution and calls on all parties to refrain from actions that undermine its viability. We will continue supporting the Palestinian Authority to help it address its most pressing needs, build institutional capacities, and implement its reform agenda. The EU has put together an unprecedented financial package of €1.6 billion for the years 2025-2027 in order to help the Palestinian Authority with the extremely challenging situation and support its reform efforts. We have also launched the Palestine Donor Group. Dear friends, any future Palestinian state must be viable also from an economic point of view, and this can only be achieved with the collective support, including from the Palestinians' neighbors. We urge and invite everyone to join the Palestinian donor group and this effort. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the European Union. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Liechtenstein.

Madam President, thank you so much for convening us under the veto initiative. As today's debate makes clear, the initiative applies to all vetoes, and plenary meetings will be held if no emergency special session is held within 10 working days of the veto cast. Thanks also to the Security Council for producing the special report and to the delegation casting the veto for addressing this Assembly today. Madam President, the 8th draft resolution since October '23 to be vetoed on the situation in Gaza marks another violation of our collective commitment. Only months ago, the General Assembly, in its revitalization resolution, decided to support credible, timely, and decisive action by the Security Council and called on member states to refrain from measures impeding action to prevent or end the commission of genocide. Crimes against humanity or war crimes. The veto cast 2 weeks ago prevented the Council from taking this action. In this context, it is remarkable that the same state that cast the veto is pursuing a peace plan that at first glance meets many of the objectives laid out in the vetoed resolution. Liechtenstein strongly supports an immediate cessation of hostilities that protects civilian life, ends the suffering in Gaza, ensures the immediate release of the hostages, guarantees the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid, prevents the occupation or annexation of Gaza and the West Bank, and reinforces the two-state solution. We welcome the call echoed in the New York Declaration, which Liechtenstein has endorsed, that Hamas should end its rule in Gaza and disarm. The parties to the conflict should urgently work together towards an agreement on the basis of this plan. It is long past time to end the civilian suffering in Gaza. Madam President, we encourage those behind an agreement to end the war to bring the agreement to the Security Council for formal adoption. The UN was created as a peace organization which, through its Security Council, would be able to end war with binding force on parties. The Security Council, in turn, can mandate decisive action on behalf of every member state. Liechtenstein again urges timely and decisive action by the Security Council Security Council, and if this is not forthcoming, urgent action by this Assembly, especially since many previous agreements were never fully implemented. Madam President, all those committed to ending the war in Gaza must act on the simple maxim: there is no peace without justice. In the Rome Statute on the criminal International Court, states have agreed that those who commit such crimes should as a priority be tried in their domestic legal system. It is only when this is not possible that we must resort to international judicial institutions with the purpose not only of ending the war but to demonstrate beyond doubt that it should never have been waged. Madam President, Liechtenstein mourns for all those needlessly killed in this conflict— mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters— by weapons of war and through starvation. To hold perpetrators accountable is the least we can do in service of their memory. It is time to begin the process of making sense of the senseless, to uphold the promise made to all those who mourn their lost children, as it was to Abraham, for Jews, Muslims, and Christians alike. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Liechtenstein. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Luxembourg.

Madam President, Luxembourg aligns itself with the statement made by the European Union. I will complement it with some remarks in a national capacity. Madam President, we thank you for convening this meeting. following the vote that took place in the Security Council on September 18th. We regret the veto cast by the United States, which once again prevented the adoption of a resolution concerning Gaza, which was proposed by the 10 elected members of the Council. We commend the efforts led by Denmark And the E10, whose draft resolution received the favorable vote of 14 Council members. This draft resolution focused on humanitarian issues was not adopted, even though the population in Gaza is facing extreme distress, famine, repeated forced displacements, and attacks day and night against civilians, hospitals, and journalists. No one can remain indifferent in the face of such a catastrophe. The veto blocks the adoption of a text that included 3 demands which should, in principle, be the subject of international consensus. First, an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire. Secondly, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups; and third, Israel's compliance with its international legal obligations and the immediate and unconditional lifting of all restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Luxembourg urges all parties to fully respect their obligations under international law and international humanitarian law. as well as the fundamental principles of humanitarian action. Humanitarian aid must never be instrumentalized for political or military purposes, and it must reach the civilians who vitally need it. In this regard, the role of the United Nations and its agency— agencies, particularly UNRWA, is essential in assisting the population of Gaza, the West Bank, and the entire region. Madam President, let us act together with determination to break the cycle of violence. Nothing justifies the continuation of the war in Gaza. More than ever, international solidarity must prevail, and all lives must be protected. Luxembourg is committed to this, and our objective is clear: To enable Israel and Palestine to live side by side in peace and security within safe and recognized borders. That is why Luxembourg recognized the State of Palestine on September 22nd from this very podium during the Conference for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution. The veto of September 18th has not diminish the determination of the international community to redouble its efforts to ensure the viability of the two-state solution and to work towards a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace in the Middle East. And we hope that the plan presented by the President of the United States on September 29th will further strengthen this momentum. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Luxembourg, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Egypt.

Madam President, if Israel possesses an excess of power and arrogance that has led it to intensify its assaults and boast about the killing of tens of thousands of our Palestinian brethren, children, women, and defenseless civilians in Gaza during that wanton war, then Egypt and Arab and Islamic nations also possess an abundance of self-confidence, willpower, and capabilities that reinforce our determination and ability to guarantee the right of the Palestinian people to establish their independent state, a unified state for that proud and noble people on their geographically contiguous territories along the lines of the 4th of June, 1967. From this firm standpoint, Egypt and its brothers from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Jordan, Turkey, Pakistan, and Indonesia have supported the genuine— the genuine initiative and efforts of the U.S. President Donald Trump to end the war in Gaza, to stop the bloodshed, and achieve security for all while restoring the foundations of lost trust in the Middle East. In this vein, we reaffirm our confidence in President Trump's ability to find a path to peace. We express our readiness to cooperate positively and constructively with the United States and all concerned parties to finalize the agreement and ensure its implementation, and to open horizons for peace, achieving security, stability, and peace for all the peoples of the region. In addition to ensuring the delivery of sufficient humanitarian aid to Gaza without restrictions, Preventing the displacement of Palestinians, releasing hostages, establishing a security mechanism that guarantees the safety of all parties, complete the total Israeli withdrawal, the reconstruction of Gaza, and establishing a just peace process based on the two-state solution whereby Gaza is fully unified with the West Bank and a Palestinian state. in accordance with international law as a key to achieving regional stability and security. We also look forward with great hope to the Security Council fulfilling its primary responsibility in maintaining international peace and security, thus contributing to ending the war in Gaza, initiating a settlement process, and achieving peace. Especially that the Council has all the tools and references for a just and comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian question through its resolutions. This, in turn, will enhance confidence in the multilateral system as a whole. From this platform, we reaffirm to our Palestinian brothers again that Egypt will always be your supporter and your ally, as you have known it to be. Egypt will continue to exert all efforts to support you in obtaining all your legitimate rights and to alleviate your suffering. Following the announcement of a ceasefire, Egypt will host an international conference for early recovery and reconstruction in Gaza in cooperation with the United Nations, the Palestinian Authority, and international partners to mobilize support and resources necessary for the rehabilitation projects and for rebuilding the Gaza Strip. This would allow us to heal the wounds, restore normal life in the Gaza Strip, and create conducive conditions for stability. In conclusion, Madam President, Egypt will continue to exert maximum efforts in coordination with the various parties and international actors It reiterates time and again that ending the occupation and reaching a just and comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian question is a historic milestone and an inevitable necessity dictated by considerations of justice, international legitimacy, and the requirements for achieving security and stability at both the regional and international levels. Thank you, President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Egypt, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Jordan.

Thank you, Madam President. At the outset, I would like to thank you for convening this important session. We are meeting today while the Security Council is unable to undertake its responsibility in maintaining international peace and security. There is an unprecedented catastrophe caused by the Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip, which has claimed the lives of more than 66,000 Palestinians since it started 2 years ago. This constitutes a blatant violation of international law, of international humanitarian law, and the decisions of the ICJ. We reaffirm our rejection of the use by Israel of starvation as a weapon of war. This has led to an increase in malnutrition, leading to the death of more than 450 people, including 150 Palestinian children. We reiterate our calls for an immediate and comprehensive cessation of aggressions on the Gaza Strip, and we reaffirm the need to allow the delivery of humanitarian assistance to the Gaza Strip at scale and immediately in order to end this unprecedented suffering. At the same time, the health sector in Gaza has been greatly devastated. Israel has destroyed more than 22 out of 36 hospitals, while hospitals are also lacking 70% of basic medication. Madam President, we seize the occasion to welcome the leading role of the U.S. President and his genuine efforts to end the war in Gaza. We appreciate his proposal to end the war and to rebuild Gaza, to prevent the displacement of the Palestinian people, and to push forward comprehensive peace. We also welcome his declaration that he will not allow Israel to annex the West Bank. We reaffirm our readiness to cooperate constructively and positively with the United States and international partners and regional partners to adopt and implement the agreement. Madam President, Your Excellencies, Jordan condemns the Israeli illegal and unilateral practices in the occupied Palestinian territories, including the ongoing settlements, the confiscation of land, terrorizing the people, and besieging the Palestinian Authority. And people, in addition to illegitimate attempts to undermine the two-state solutions. We reaffirm the importance of the Jordanian custodianship over the Arab and Islamic and Christian identity of the holy sites. We also condemn the Israeli aggressions against these holy sites, the incursion of the settlers into Al-Quds al-Sharif in violation of the legal and historic status of these sites. We remind Israel, as the occupying power, of its obligation, and we reaffirm that Jordan is ready to send hundreds of trucks daily to the Gaza Strip as soon as Israel lifts its illegal measures imposed on the delivery of humanitarian assistance. In the same vein, we reaffirm our support to all the efforts made by Egypt the State of Qatar and the United States in order to reach a deal that would impose a ceasefire in Gaza. We also welcome the International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution in New York on the margin of the 80th session of the GA. That conference has recognized the Palestinian state, and we commend the efforts of the KSA and of France in co-chairing this high-level international conference for the settlement of the Palestinian question and the implementation of the two-state solution. In conclusion, Madam President, we reaffirm that the Palestinian people have the right to their legitimate rights, and this is the basis of comprehensive and lasting peace. This organization, in its— in all its agencies, is the guarantor And we should allow the Palestinian people to establish an independent sovereign state along the lines of the 4th of June, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, based on the two-state solution. This is the only way to achieve a just and lasting peace that would guarantee all the Palestinian rights. Thank you, President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Jordan, and I now give I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Austria.

Madam President, We meet in this hall today because one of the permanent members of the Security Council cast a veto on a resolution presented by the 10 elected members of the Council. This is highly regrettable, particularly given the unity that was demonstrated by the other Council members in the face of the horrific humanitarian situation in Gaza. Members of the Security Council, and especially the permanent members, serve on behalf of all of us. They were conferred a special responsibility through the UN Charter. This is why Austria strongly supports the holding of today's debate in conformity with General Assembly Resolution 76/262. On substance, the humanitarian situation in Gaza is nothing short of catastrophic. Too many civilians, too many children have lost their lives. The suffering of the civilian population must stop immediately. For Austria, it is clear the attacks by Hamas on Israel on October 7th were horrible beyond imaginable brutality. They must be condemned by all of us. At the same time, nothing justifies the devastating humanitarian catastrophe we are witnessing in Gaza. Civilians must be protected at all times. There is no justification for violating international law, including international humanitarian law. This war must end immediately. and all hostages must be freed now. And more humanitarian aid must reach the suffering civilians in Gaza without any further delay. We commend the efforts led by the United States and others to achieve a swift end to this war. With the latest US initiative, a concrete plan is now before us. It is now up to Hamas to release the hostages and lay down its arms. Our vision, the Austrian vision, and not just the Austrian vision, is clear: a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the Middle East. 2 states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security within recognized borders. Austria's support for the 2-state solution is not just words. Our president, Van der Bellen participated in last week's 2-state solution conference co-sponsored by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and France. And we have supported both as an EU member state and also bilaterally the Palestinian Authority for many decades. I am under no illusion that our shared goal of a 2-state solution faces greater challenges today than ever before. Yet these recent months have only strengthened our conviction that the two-state solution remains the only viable path to peace. Madam President, a sustainable long-term solution must rest on a few core principles. First, international law must guide every stage of this process, from managing current conflict to future negotiations. Second, Gaza is and must remain Palestinian. Palestinian. Any calls for displacement or annexation of Palestinian land are illegal and will only lead to more chaos and violence in the region. Third, Austria rejects any unilateral attempts to undermine the prospects for a two-state solution. The expansion of settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories, particularly in the West Bank, is a clear violation of international law and an obstacle peace. We demand that Israel halts all construction of additional settlements. Today is also Yom Kippur. It's a day of forgiving each other. Maybe that's a good moment. And finally, the terror regime of Hamas has no place in Gaza's future. Hamas must not be part of any legitimate governance framework. Israel's security is legitimate. Are non-negotiable and must be fully respected by all sides in this context. In conclusion, let me reiterate that we stand ready to work with our European, Israeli, Arab, and all other international partners to create the conditions for a viable peace process, one that delivers security, dignity, and prosperity for Israelis and Palestinians alike, and one— and the whole region and one that guarantees stability for the region and beyond. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Austria, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of France.

Madame la Présidente.

Madam President, France reiterates its call for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire and will not stop requiring the immediate, unconditional, and dignified release of all hostages. We reiterate our condemnation of the terrorist attacks perpetrated by Hamas on October 7th, 2023, whose tragic anniversary we will commemorate next week. Hamas can have no place in Palestine's future. Madam President, the resolution presented by the elected members of the Security Council on September 18th had that precise purpose, to respond to the unacceptable humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza and reiterate the urgency of a ceasefire and require the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages. That text did not succeed, which we regret. The situation remains dire and we must act. We welcome the plan proposed on Monday by President Trump to end the war in Gaza, and we call on the parties to the conflict to cease it without delay, to restore a horizon for peace and collective security in the region. France stands ready to contribute to the implementation of this plan in accordance with the principles of the New York Declaration on the two-state solution. Implementing the two-state solution requires the establishment of a sovereign Palestine state— Palestinian state led by a reformed and strengthened Palestinian Authority. That is why France alongside 11 other countries, launched an emergency coalition for the financial sustainability of the Palestinian Authority. The goal is to stabilize its finances and preserve its ability to govern, provide essential services, and maintain security. In Gaza and the West Bank, we reiterate our firm opposition to any plans for annexation, occupation, Or forced displacement of the Palestinian population. We condemn in the strongest terms the Israeli offensive in Gaza City, which lacks military logic and has tragic humanitarian consequences. France reiterates its condemnation of settlement activity. The E1 settlement project in the West Bank seriously undermines the two-state solution. France calls on Israel to respect its international obligations. Respect for international humanitarian law is imperative and non-negotiable. Civilians must be protected. The use of famine as a weapon of war may constitute a war crime. All obstacles to the delivery of aid must be lifted immediately, and such aid must not be instrumentalized for political or military purposes. The plan proposed by President Trump also recalls the central role that UN agencies must play in delivering aid. France will continue to work towards the implementation of the two-state solution endorsed by 142 states. The New York Declaration supports a reformed Palestine Authority, the disarmament of Hamas and its exclusion from Gaza's governance, as well as the stabilization and reconstruction of Gaza. Madam President, last week, 2 hopes were born here: the broad support of this Assembly for the 2-state solution and the development of the peace plan by the President of the United States presented in Washington. France resolutely supports them for the peace and security of Israel, Palestinians, Israelis, Palestine, and the states of the region. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of France, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom.

Thank you, President. The United Kingdom voted in favor of the draft Security Council resolution proposed for adoption on 18th of September, in line with our longstanding demand for urgent action to address the appalling humanitarian situation in Gaza, bring the hostages home, and end the conflict. Since Hamas's atrocities of October 7th, hostages have been held in unimaginable conditions in Gaza. We reiterate our condemnation of Hamas and its terrorist ideology. Hamas must have no role in the future of Gaza. They need to disarm and end their rule. However, the path to peace must be through dialogue and diplomacy, not further bloodshed. The UK condemns Israel's reckless expansion of its military operation, which has already cost the lives of 65,000 Palestinians. We are witnessing an entirely man-made famine in Gaza and are shocked by images of starving Palestinians killed while desperately seeking scraps of food for their families. This is abhorrent. We urge Israel to ensure the protection of civilians and immediately lift its restrictions on the entry of aid to allow the UN and humanitarian agencies to save lives in line with its obligations under international humanitarian law. As my Prime Minister said this week, we welcome U.S. efforts to develop a plan for sustainable peace. We call on all sides to come together and to work with the U.S. administration to finalize this agreement and bring it into reality. Hamas should now agree to the plan and end the misery by laying down their arms and releasing all remaining hostages. Together with our international partners, we will continue to work to achieve consensus on a permanent end to the conflict and a pathway towards a peaceful, peaceful future. President, the UK's historic recognition of the State of Palestine last week is part of our commitment to protecting the viability of a two-state solution, the only path to a just and lasting peace, and to security for Palestinians and Israelis alike. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia.

Madam President, thank you for convening this meeting. Once again, we gather here to respond to the paralysis of the Security Council and the disconnect between the veto power and global conscience. On September 16th, Commission of Inquiry determined that genocide has been committed and continues to be committed against the Palestinians in Gaza. Yet just 2 days after, on its 10,000th meeting, the Council was again unable to adopt a resolution that would have called for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire. fire and lifted all restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Hence, over 2 million Palestinians remain under siege and under unprecedented humanitarian catastrophes. The Council's inability to adopt the resolution due to a veto should not be seen as a merely Council procedural failure. but a responsibility once again unfulfilled. Madam President, a permanent ceasefire in Gaza is the indispensable first step towards the unhindered flow of humanitarian assistance and to create conditions conducive for peace talks. All efforts must be taken to achieve this. In this regard, we commend the 10 elected members of the Security Council who have put forward the draft resolution in the pursuit of the ceasefire. We also observed that the majority of nations are advancing efforts to resolving the humanitarian crisis in Palestine and safeguarding the 2-state solution, as has been reflected by the endorsement of New York Declaration a few weeks ago in this hall. Mindful of different perspectives, and approaches towards the peace process, it is important to underline that true peace is not one unilaterally imposed. It requires a genuine and inclusive process guided by internationally agreed parameters. This is in line with the calls made by many leaders last week during the High-Level Week that the 80th year of the UN must serve as a pivotal moment to recommit to the integrity of international law, including on the question of Palestine. Madam President, this Assembly must serve as a platform to show that nations are responsive to global conscience and are therefore steadfast to protect humanity and end the great suffering. Together, we must send a message that any viable political solution to the Palestinian question must address the fundamental issues of colonialism and historical injustice. Our focus must extend beyond today. The repeated misuse of veto power has eroded trust in the multilateral system. Therefore, the Security Council must be reformed to ensure that accountability prevails and the veto power does not allow atrocities atrocities go unchecked. Indonesia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to stand with humanity, and we will continue to work for the United Nations that stands with humanity. I thank you, Madam President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malta.

Madam President, Excellencies. Malta aligns with the statement delivered by the European Union, but I would like to make the following remarks in my national capacity. My country, Malta, fully supports supports the content of the Security Council resolution tabled by the 10 elected members, calling for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire, along with the release of all hostages and the lifting of all restrictions by Israel regarding the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. We thank Denmark in particular for its approach as PEN and the other elected members for their efforts to generate consensus on this resolution. Malta has repeatedly and unequivocally condemned Hamas's terror attacks of October 7th, and we reiterate that the immediate release of all remaining hostages must continue to be a priority. However, the scale of famine and human suffering unfolding in Gaza represents a profound violation of the fundamental principles of international humanitarian law and is, quite simply, indefensible. In the face of such grave suffering, it is imperative that the Security Council calls for a permanent cessation of hostilities. Regrettably, almost 2 full years into this conflict, it has been unable to do so. This has real-world consequences. Every day we have, and we continue to witness, horrific scenes of human tragedy, including increased rates of famine, children severely injured through bombardment, and people who are killed or wounded while seeking life-saving aid. As many leaders, including Malta's Prime Minister, outlined during the general debate in this Chamber only last week, the ending of the violence and bloodshed in Gaza must continue to be a first-order priority for the United Nations. The ongoing war has already cost the lives of more than 65,000 Palestinians, and it has the potential to do even more lasting damage to entire generations of Palestinian children. Malta welcomes all genuine efforts aimed at ending hostilities in Gaza, including the recent proposal announced by the United States. Malta reaffirms its commitment to contributing to concrete initiatives that end this conflict and create a meaningful pathway to peace, which must include a secure Israel existing alongside an independent Palestinian state.

I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Malta, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Qatar.

Thank you, Madam President. I thank you for convening this important meeting. Under the item use of the veto, Qatar expresses its thanks to the elected 10 members of the Security Council for tabling the draft resolution on the situation in Gaza. Madam President, we hold this meeting today after the use of the veto in the Council on the 18th of September with regards to a draft resolution tabled by the elected members on the situation in Gaza. In this context, Qatar expresses its regret that the Council was unable to adopt this resolution that aimed to end the catastrophic suffering of the civilians in Gaza as a result of the continued Israeli aggression, and that called for an unconditional and immediate ceasefire by all parties and the immediate release of all hostages, in addition to calling on Israel to lift all restrictions on humanitarian aid. And guaranteeing the distribution in a safe and unhindered manner through cooperation with the United Nations and other humanitarian organizations. Madam President, the State of Qatar continued as part of its efforts to de-escalate this situation in the region and to preserve the two-state solution for 2 years to reach a settlement that ends the war in Gaza. And we are proud in It is in this context that our mediation efforts together with Egypt and the United States have succeeded in releasing a large number of Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees, in addition to allowing humanitarian access into Gaza despite the challenges and the complex situation. The State of Qatar has reaffirmed its readiness to continue its active participation and efforts in order to end the war in Gaza within the context of the U.S. President's initiative. This is a continuation of Qatar's approach and commitment to the peaceful settlement of conflicts and in accordance with our role in support of regional peace and security. In this context, we reiterate that we welcome the leading role of the U.S. President Donald Trump and his genuine efforts efforts to end the war in Gaza. And we emphasize our belief in his ability to find the path towards peace. And we have supported the plan through a declaration by Arab and Muslim countries, and a declaration issued recently, and that we will continue our efforts with the U.S. to implement peace in the region. And we welcome the U.S. President's announcement of his plan that will end the war, and prevent the displacement and allow for the reconstruction and push forward with the peace process, and that he will not allow the annexation of the West Bank. And the states have expressed their readiness to cooperate with the U.S. and relevant actors to implement the plan and guarantee its success in a manner that guarantees peace, security, and stability for the people of the region, and out of joint commitment to efforts with the U.S. to end the war in Gaza through a comprehensive agreement that guarantees humanitarian access without restriction and the non-displacement of Palestinians and the release of hostages, and creating a security mechanism that guarantees security for all parties and that guarantees the full withdrawal of Israel and the reconstruction of Gaza and implementing the two-state solution. by which Gaza would be united with the West Bank under a Palestinian state as per international law, as this is the key to achieve regional stability and peace and security. Madam President, Qatar reiterates its welcome of the New York Declaration on the 2-state solution and the establishment of a Palestinian state, which was issued by the High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the question of Palestine. And here we thank the sisterly Saudi Arabia and France for their efforts. And we welcome the successive recognitions of the State of Palestine as a step towards the two-state pollution— solution and a full and just lasting peace. And with the context of our support for the Palestinian people and their just cause, and their right to self-determination as per international resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative, which guarantees the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the borders of 1967 with East Jerusalem as its capital. Thank you, Madam President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Qatar, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia.

In the name of God, most compassionate, most merciful. Madam President, this session convenes under the item, Use of the Veto, after The draft resolution that has not been adopted on the 18th of September as a result of the veto, despite 14 members voting in its favor. It is a scene that has recurred many times with regards to the Palestinian question, which always threatens the credibility of the international order and its institutions. And entrenches the inability to end the Israeli war and entrenches double standards and selectivity. Madam President, ladies and gentlemen, despite it being 8 decades since the establishment of the United Nations, the question of Palestine remains and continues to prove day after day the organization's inability to uphold its responsibility towards the Palestinians. And it has revealed the urgent need for reform and increase in effectiveness. Arbitrary use of the veto is no longer just a barrier from upholding the duty of the Security Council, but it is a weakness that affects its competence and ability to perform the role for which it was established. Despite the repeated failures of the Security Council, this has not succeeded in hiding the overwhelming will of the majority of the member states in supporting Palestinian rights. The suffering of the Palestinians and the unprecedented disaster in Gaza contradict the principles of the Charter and international law and international humanitarian law. As the occupying power continues its crimes of starvation and methodic killing, it cannot be justified under any excuse. The use of veto has been practiced against any resolution that demands an end to these practices. Which has given a green light to the occupying power to continue its aggression. The last of which was the blatant attack against the sisterly state of Qatar. All these violations and blatant attacks require international action to stop and deter Israel from continuing its crimes that destabilize the region and create instability. Madam President, it is time to realize a lasting and just and comprehensive solution to the question of Palestine. Military escalation will not achieve peace and security, but rather continues the vicious cycle of violence. Accordingly, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia cooperated with the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the European Union through launching the Global Alliance for the Two-State Solution. We have also co-chaired with France the High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Two-State Solution. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia commends the adoption of the New York Declaration, which enjoyed the support of an overwhelming majority. And we also welcome the increasing number of states that recognize the State of Palestine. And we call on everyone to recognize the State of Palestine and to support the two-state solution. Out of commitment to the international law and peace and security in the region and the world. In conclusion, Madam President, ladies and gentlemen, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reaffirms its position in support of the Palestinian question and Palestinian rights, and we will continue our efforts and cooperation with sisterly and friendly nations in order to realize a viable and urgent solution that ends the bloodshed and end the escalation and the vicious cycle of violence. This comes out of the Kingdom's belief in that just and lasting peace is the strategic choice that will guarantee regional peace and stability. The King of Saudi Arabia welcomes, in this context, the U.S. administration's announcement of President Donald Trump's plan comprehensive plan to end this conflict in Gaza and to allow for reconstruction and humanitarian access without interruption, including the, the non-allowance for annexation of the West Bank. And we express our readiness to cooperate with the United States to achieve a comprehensive agreement to end the war in Gaza and to implement the full Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip. and to allow for sufficient and unhindered humanitarian access in order to strengthen the efforts to achieve a lasting and just peace on the base of the two-state solution in a manner that guarantees the establishment of a Palestinian state on the borders of 1967 with East Jerusalem as its capital. Thank you, Madam President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal.

Thank you, Madam President, Excellencies. Portugal aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union and wishes to add the following remarks in our national capacity. As a co-sponsor of the veto initiative, Portugal stresses the need for accountability and transparency in the Security Council's use of the veto. We regret that the veto, once again used to block the elected members' draft resolution on Gaza, preventive collective action during a severe humanitarian crisis. The veto was used 10 times since October 2023, eroding the Council's credibility. We reaffirm our support for the veto initiative, convinced that greater General Assembly scrutiny strengthens the legitimacy of multilateralism. In the present context, Excellencies, Portugal wants to start by welcoming President Donald Trump's initiative to put an end to the conflict in Gaza and to create the conditions that will allow the further development and implementation of the two-state solution. We also commend the Arab states and mediators for their peace endeavors. A ceasefire, the resumption of humanitarian assistance, and the release of hostages are imperative. The suffering in Gaza must end immediately. Portugal urges Hamas to accept the new peace plan. We remain gravely concerned about the grievous humanitarian situation in Gaza. Gaza and developments in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Both realities threaten the prospect of a peace settlement of the question of Palestine and the implementation of the two-state solution. We, my country Portugal, formally recognized the State of Palestine on the 21st of September. This decision reflected our longstanding position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Conflict and seeks to promote and protect a just and lasting peace in the Middle East based on the two-state solution. The international community cannot miss the opportunity brought by the latest US plan finally— to finally bring about a complete and immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages and the swift, full, and unimpeded resumption of humanitarian assistance consistent with international humanitarian law. The Palestinian Authority should be involved in any peace and administration plans regarding Gaza. Likewise, the United Nations and all its agencies, including UNRWA, need to maintain their role. Portugal hails this new chance for peace, which hopefully would also help pave the way for the implementation of the New York Declaration on the two-state solution. We also continue to support the efforts of the mediators— US, Egypt, Qatar— and also the role of Turkey, as well as the work of the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Portugal, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa.

Madam President, thank you for convening this debate for the umpteenth time to discuss the failure of the UN Security Council, entrusted with the maintenance of international peace and security, to once again demand an immediate ceasefire, release of hostages, and full humanitarian access to prevent further wanton death and destruction in Gaza. We are here today because a permanent member used its veto to prevent a halt to a genocidal bombardment and occupation of this narrow strip of Palestinian land yet again. It is tragically symbolic that the Security Council's 10,000th meeting will be marked and remembered for the failure of the Council to come to the aid of innocent people whose lives are being decimated and existence snuffed out through the most heinous means possible: genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. The inadequacies of the UN Security Council, with a decision-making structure that empowers a single permanent member to go against the moral will of almost all other member states of the United Nations should be addressed through urgent Security Council reform to restore the credibility of the United Nations. Madam President, it is deeply concerning that the Security Council has become paralyzed and unable to deliver on its mandate by passing a resolution that would have delivered on the expectations of both the Palestinian and Israeli people for an end to the suffering on both sides. The inability of the Council to take even the most minimal action means that civilians will continue to be exposed to indescribable horrors and atrocities, therefore failing in responsibility to protect civilians in armed conflict. It further renders the Council incapable of of preventing the conflict from spilling over into the wider regional— into a wider regional crisis. We believe that the international community has an obligation to put an end to the ongoing genocide before it is too late. The Gaza Strip has been facing a war of genocide, destruction, starvation, and displacement waged by the Israeli occupation for forces, in which they have injured more than 220,000 Palestinians and killed more than 65,000, the majority of whom are unarmed children, women, and the elderly. Madam President, Israel is perpetrating these violations and crimes willfully and wantonly, confidently knowing that they are allowed through the Security Council veto to act with impunity and are allowed to force its terms for an end to the conflict on the people of Palestine in utter disregard for Palestinian self-determination. All the while, Palestinians continue to face extermination. Israel is violating every provision of international humanitarian law and international human rights law intended to protect civilians. Israel is waging war on the Palestinian people themselves with the brutal use of starvation, displacement, and impoverishment, denial of basic healthcare, denial of lifesaving humanitarian access, and an unjustified campaign against UNRWA and the UN as a whole. Madam President, the so-called E1 plan recently approved by the Israeli government should be rejected. This plan would divide the West Bank into 2 parts and would isolate occupied Jerusalem from its surroundings and would undermine the option of the 2-state solution in a blatant violation of international law and relevant Security Council resolutions. The Israeli government has brazenly denied the possibility of a Palestinian state, while 157 countries recognize the Palestinian state and global community has come together to reaffirm the fundamental importance of a two-state solution. South Africa supported the outcome of the International Conference on the Two-State Solution held in July and the subsequent GA resolution whereby it was adopted. The outcome was a way to give greater impetus to the two-state solution's implementation, trusting that the practical measures and requirements outlined in the outcome could be useful in an inclusive, negotiated, and peaceful resolution on the question of Palestine. Madam President, we reiterate that the international community cannot proclaim the importance of international law and the UN Charter in some situations and not in others, as the rule of law only applies— as if the rule of law only applies to a select few. For international law to be credible, it should be uniformly applied and not selectively. Furthermore, the United Nations Security Council should not be an obstacle to international law and fundamental principles for international law such as jus cogens norms that protect all humanity. The failure or inability of the Security Council to act and respond effectively to conflict situations such as in Gaza has highlighted repeatedly the urgent need for the reform of the Security Council. We cannot afford to delay this any longer. The veto should never block urgently needed action to maintain peace and security. This equally applies to the actual use of the veto as well as it does to the threat of The efforts and initiatives towards limiting the use of the veto have a key role to play in this regard, but can never replace the urgent need for structural reform of the United Nations Security Council. Madam President, South Africa believes that addressing the root cause of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is long overdue. At the center of the root cause is the illegal occupation of Palestine, of the Palestinian territories. Illegal settlements leading to dispossession and displacements and human rights abuses are a flagrant violation of United Nations General Assembly and Security Council resolutions and contravenes international law. The continued policies of the occupying power can only spur hatred and resentment. In conclusion, to promote peace and stability, there is an urgent need for a negotiated settlement towards a two-state solution, which this Assembly and the Security Council has recognized in its resolutions and the acceptance of Palestine as a full member of the United Nations. The situation in Gaza should serve as a catalyst for finding a just and lasting peace for Palestinians as well as Israelis. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of South Africa, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan.

Thank you, Madam President. This month marks yet another painful milestone. 2 years since October 7th, the day when Hamas and other militant groups brutally killed more than 1,000 Israelis and took over 200 hostages. Japan once again firmly condemns these heinous acts of terror. The taking of civilians as hostages and their inhumane treatment are completely unacceptable. Hamas must immediately release all the remaining hostages. Yet these 2 years have also been a time of unspeakable tragedy for the Palestinians in Gaza. Tens of thousands of innocent people have been killed, wounded, displaced, and left to endure an ever-deepening humanitarian catastrophe, even famine. Israel has intensified its ground operations in Gaza City, claiming yet more lives and exacerbating an already catastrophic situation. As both our Prime Minister and Foreign Minister clearly stated in this very hall, last week. Japan strongly condemns these actions. We call on Israel to immediately cease its military operation and all unilateral measures. What is urgently required is an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and unhindered large-scale delivery of humanitarian aid across Gaza. It is regrettable the Security Council has thus far failed to act decisively to achieve these goals. A veto must not become business as usual. Reform of the Security Council is crucial for the Council to regain the trust of the member states and the international community. Madam President, on September 29th, President Trump announced a comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict. Japan highly welcomes his leadership and efforts to achieve peace. This is a significant step toward a two-state solution, including a ceasefire, improving the humanitarian situation, and releasing hostages. We expect all parties concerned to proceed in accordance with this plan. Hamas must accept the proposal. Should an agreement be reached. We urge Israel to implement it in good faith. Meanwhile, Japan remains committed to safeguarding the lives and dignity of the people in Gaza. In this regard, my country has most recently contributed over $3 million to WFP and $6 million to WHO, respectively, for urgent food and medical assistance, adding to the more than $230 million in humanitarian aid we have provided over the past 2 years. Madam President, peace in the region is not born out of war or nourished by hatred. It can only be achieved through a just and lasting 2-state solution where Israel and Palestine live side by side in peace. peace, security, and mutual dignity. Together with partners, Japan will continue to pursue diplomatic efforts to make this vision a reality. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Japan, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico.

Madam President. The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is unconscionable. Every time we meet in this hall, the numbers of the dead, wounded, displaced persons, and victims of famine have swelled at an alarming pace. The dehumanization that these figures allow is equally concerning. The international community cannot stand idly by twiddling its fingers when we are witnessing the clear reduction of the space within which humanitarian organizations are allowed to operate, when we witness the ever-hastening expansion of evacuation orders, shellings and demolitions which are increasingly close to humanitarian facilities, and when we are witnessing the constant use of ammunition in humanitarian aid distribution centers. We need urgent collective actions. To halt and reverse this humanitarian crisis, which has no precedent in recent decades. In view of this heart-wrenching state of affairs, Mexico values the efforts undertaken by the 10 elected members of the Security Council. The E10, through these efforts, proposed a Security Council resolution focused on providing urgent relief to the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Following the veto cast against this draft resolution, my country is compelled to emphasize once again that there can be no justification whatsoever for the paralysis of the Security Council when the life of tens of thousands of people are at stake, and when those lives depend on the very decisions that the Security Council takes. The international community has repudiated the fact that one or two countries in opposition to the majority of the membership are able to veto UN action. Which could result in less death or less hunger for vast numbers of human beings. Allow me once again to reiterate the historic position of Mexico as regards the veto. Since the negotiations on the UN Charter in San Francisco, my country has maintained that the veto does not serve the collective interests of the international community. Rather, it has simply furthered individual political interests of whoever has cast it since then. I wish to take this opportunity to invite all countries that have not yet done so to accede to the Franco-Mexican Initiative on the Suspension of the use of the veto in cases of mass atrocities. It is of pivotal importance to suspend the use of the veto until we achieve its abolition. Given that the Security Council is currently unable to act, Mexico here reaffirms its convictions. Regarding the role that it is incumbent upon this General Assembly to play. They must shoulder their own responsibilities in terms of safeguarding the 3 fundamental pillars of our Charter. The General Assembly recently adopted a resolution on the revitalization of this organ. That resolution contained clear guidelines to facilitate the adoption of measures following a debate on the use of the veto. Let us not allow this opportunity to slip through our fingers, the opportunity to ensure that our action does not simply boil down to empty words issued from this rostrum. Madam President, the New York Declaration adopted by the General Assembly less than a month ago marked a turning point in terms of how member states view the two-state solution. The two-state solution for the consolidation of a Palestinian state state living side by side the State of Israel. However, the ratcheting up of hostilities means that the Palestinian civilian population in Gaza has no viable horizon for what we have come to call the day after war. or for the reconstruction of its social fabric. We must also guarantee that we never again see atrocious attacks such as those that occurred on the fated day of the 7th of October, 2023. Lastly, we wish to echo The words of our Secretary-General. We hope that the peace plans that have emerged in the last few hours will allow an urgent ceasefire, and we hope that they will result in progress towards peace in the Middle East. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Mexico and now give the floor to the distinguished representative of

President, we meet once again to discuss the use of the veto preventing the Security Council from adopting a resolution demanding an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza. And the unrestricted entry of humanitarian assistance to Gaza. We remain shocked by harrowing images of famine in Gaza and by Israeli military actions that can only be described as grossly disproportionate. Palestinian civilians continue to bear the brunt of Israel's actions. Humanitarian and medical workers continue to be killed, and health facilities and vital infrastructure in Gaza have been almost completely destroyed. For some time, the humanitarian situation in Gaza has been an utter catastrophe. Palestinian citizens have now endured 2 appalling and hellish years since the crisis escalated. We were therefore disappointed that the use of the veto once again blocked a renewed effort to achieve a ceasefire and humanitarian access. The need for the Council to act could not be clearer. President, New Zealand is a longstanding opponent of the use of the veto. We have actively supported the veto initiative since its inception 3 years ago and remain strong proponent of Resolution 76262. The Security Council's legitimacy is fundamentally defined by its ability to exercise its responsibility under the UN Charter to maintain international peace and security. The use of the veto deprives the Security Council of the ability and increases the importance of an empowered General Assembly. Each and every veto impacts the perception of Council's legitimacy and, by extension, the United Nations' broader legitimacy and effectiveness. That is something in which all member states have a stake. Despite the Council's failure to adopt this particular resolution, New Zealand's strongly believes the international community must retain its focus on the very urgent and practical challenge of getting as much humanitarian assistance as possible into Gaza. In support of this objective, we announced a few days ago a further significant financial contribution of $10 million for our international humanitarian partners to support their delivery of emergency supplies into Gaza. We note that the vetoed resolution which led to this meeting also reiterated a demand for the immediate, dignified, and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups. This is another point which New Zealand continues to strongly support. Further, we have repeatedly called for a ceasefire and for Israel to allow vital assistance to flow into Gaza. We strongly reiterate these calls once again. Aid must flow. Violence must cease. To this end, New Zealand welcomed the United States announcement earlier this week of a proposed plan to end the conflict in Gaza, and we urge the parties to seize the opportunity to fully implement the terms of that proposal. Thank you, President.

I thank the distinguished representative of New Zealand, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Canada.

Senator Hawley. Madam President, yesterday my wife and I had the opportunity and the great honor of attending a service in this building, a memorial service that was held to commemorate the courage, the suffering of those who died and were injured in the terrible Hamas attack on Israel and innocent civilians on October 7th, 2 years ago, and at the same time to reflect on the courage and the extraordinary heroism of women who were involved in saving lives. And it's important for us to remember that the attack that took place on that day was the most dramatic attack on Israel and on Jewish citizens that had taken place since the Holocaust. We need to be able to hold in our hearts and in our minds 2 thoughts at the same time. The first is to understand the depth of the trauma that has been felt by the Israeli people because of the nature of that attack, and also their feeling that the rest of the world was indifferent or not sufficiently responding to the nature of that assault. Canada continues to condemn unequivocally Hamas's brutal terrorist attacks on October 7th, 2023, and we call once again for the immediate release of all the remaining hostages. And so we need to retain in our minds that sense. But we also need to recognize the sheer horror of the catastrophe that has taken place in Gaza. I do not intend to use this podium to, in any way, take away from what I've said earlier about the nature of the attack that took place on October 7th. But just as we recognize that, we also have to recognize the nature of the attacks that took place in response to the original attack. Canada believes that, yes, there's a right to self-defense. But there's also an obligation to carry out self-defense in a way that creates the least damage possible to human life. And that's not just some personal view, that happens to be the law. That's what the law tells us we have to do. We now see that famine is spreading, essential services have collapsed, Medical infrastructure is decimated, and humanitarian access remains severely obstructed in Gaza. This is further exacerbated by the repeated displacement of a vulnerable population. We see the pictures constantly of people moving around in the hundreds of thousands. The scale of human suffering is intolerable and demands urgent and collective action. And so, as we call for the immediate release of all the remaining hostages, we also repeat our call once again for an immediate and permanent ceasefire to protect civilians, including humanitarian workers. The level of aid that is now reaching civilians in Gaza is not acceptable. It does not meet the standards of common decency. And it does not meet the standards of international humanitarian law. Israel has an obligation to allow and facilitate the rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian aid in accordance with this law. This includes reopening all crossings and corridors, allowing the entry of essential supplies, including food, water, shelter, fuel, and medicine, Allowing the UN, including UNRWA, the Red Cross, and experienced humanitarian NGO partners to operate freely and safely across Gaza. The efforts that have been made by Israel and by others to establish some kind of an alternative to this reasoned, necessary approach do not meet the standard. They do not meet the test. They have not been a success. And we need to understand that. We have to have impartial, needs-based humanitarian assistance that is free from political interference of any kind. Aid must reach all citizens throughout the entirety of the Gaza Strip. Canada regrets that this resolution was blocked by a veto. And that's why we agreed on the need for this debate, and we will have further discussions on the need for United Nations reform. But we also want to make it clear, as our Prime Minister has stated yesterday, that we welcome the efforts that have been led by the United States and by President Trump that were announced. on September 29th to bring an end to the devastating war in Gaza and to secure the release of all hostages. We must seize the current momentum to lay the foundation for lasting peace through credible post-war security and governance arrangements in Gaza. Canada also joined with our French colleagues and our Saudi colleagues and many others to sign the New York Declaration and also to recognize the need for a sovereign Palestine and to recognize the State of Palestine, which we did. We have to advance towards a two-state solution, which we continue to believe is the only viable path to long-term peace and security for Israelis, for Palestinians and the Middle East more broadly. Nearly 2 years after the atrocities of October 7th, we must work to ensure that they are never allowed to be repeated, and we will stand by to support these efforts. For further clarity, let me repeat once more: To Hamas, we say, The war should be over. You have an obligation to free the hostages. Your seizing of the hostages was a crime of war. Your holding of the hostages is an ongoing crime of war. You must release the hostages. You must lay down your arms. The war must stop. Hamas needs to accept the need for peace. And that they, because of what they've done, they can have no role in the future governance of the State of Palestine. To Israel, we say quite simply, do everything you can to accept the responsibility of following the basic standards of international law. 2 states must be allowed. We have to get to a point where we see the logic of accepting the reality of the other. It will not do to focus only on our own suffering and fail to recognize the suffering of other people. And to all of us, I have to say we have watched with admiration the efforts of so many to lead us in a better direction. To my French and To our Saudi colleagues, I say we are in your debt for having refused to accept the view that there's nothing more to be done, and in fact to insist that the two states has to be brought back. To our American friends, we say, yes, well done on what is an extraordinary effort to bring together many countries from the region that in the past were never have taken this leap and never have gone this far. We all have a job, but we say this— I don't see these 2 efforts as being contradictory or one against the other. We don't have to pick sides. We have to pick the side of peace. We have to pick the side of dignity. We have to pick the side of reconciliation. of reconstruction, of renewal. This is the side we have to pick, and this is the side that my country has chosen. We believe profoundly that both Palestinians and Israelis have the same rights to peace, have the same rights to security, have the same rights to sovereignty, and have the same rights to prosperity. And we all have an ongoing obligation to make sure that we take the path forward. Sometimes people say these debates don't matter, that the words are empty. I often hear people stand up in this podium and say words don't matter, and they proceed to give further words. That's human nature. I often hear politicians stand at a podium and say, I'm not a politician. as soon as you stand at the podium, you are. You have to understand, we are all in this together. This debate is helpful in allowing us to focus on the enormity of the moment and the challenge that we face together, and that's what we have to live up to. Thank you for the opportunity to speak to you all. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Canada, and I now give the I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil.

Mr.

President, dear colleagues, it's always a challenge to speak right after Ambassador Bob Rae, one of our greatest orators in our General Assembly. Madam President, Brazil deeply regrets that on September 18th, the Security Council, on its symbolic 10,000th meeting, once again failed to meet its responsibilities under the UN Charter. 14 members voted in favor of a resolution that could have offered a concrete step toward alleviating the suffering in Gaza, yet the will of the international community was blocked again by the veto. The repeated and excessive resort to the veto has become a systemic failure of the Council. Instead of preserving peace and security, it has too often obstructed collective action, prevented responses to egregious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law, and perpetuated cycles of violence. The cost is measured not in abstractions, but in human lives, including children, women and humanitarian workers. Nowhere is this clearer than in Gaza, where we are witnessing one of the gravest humanitarian crises of our time. The destruction, deprivation and suffering inflicted on civilians constitute a collective tragedy. Brazil has consistently condemned these atrocities and all violations of international humanitarian law, including the taking of hostages. The Council must uphold its responsibilities under the UN Charter and in respect of our common humanity. Continued paralysis in the face of what the international community has already recognized as genocide is indefensible. Despite repeated briefings, consultations, and draft resolutions, the Council has been unable to take the decisive measures required. This paralysis undermines its credibility and erodes the foundations of multilateralism. Brazil calls for a profound reflection on the veto. It must never be a shield for impunity or a tool perpetuate suffering. The credibility of the Council depends on its ability to act. Inaction is costing thousands of innocent lives in Gaza and beyond. It is time for the Council to live up to its Charter responsibilities. The world cannot wait anymore. Gaza cannot wait anymore. Civilians martyred by conflict everywhere cannot wait anymore. Enough is enough. Lastly, we also regret that Resolution 76/262 has fallen short of the expectations to inhibit Council members to cast vetoes. Coming to the GA to explain the reasons why a resolution was vetoed has simply become naturalized. It has become nothing more than a platform for permanent members to voice before the entire General Assembly the same arguments they used to block Council action.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Brazil, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Chile.

Thank you, Madam President. I take the floor before this General Assembly with a profound sense of responsibility. The responsibility of my country. I also take the floor with the conviction that our collective work as member states cannot be paralyzed in the face of human suffering. Once again, we are witnessing how the Security Council, an organ whose primary responsibility is to maintain international peace and security, how such an organ has remained silent as a result of a veto being cast. This inaction is something we've also seen previously. It was seen on the 4th of June this year and has served to prolong the suffering of thousands of civilians, including older persons, women, and children. For 2 years now, these people have seen much more than their lives and hope being snuffed out. In other words, the actions of the Security Council have a direct impact, a direct specific impact in terms of wreaking suffering upon women, children, and older persons, among others. In recent weeks, we have seen how through manifold initiatives the international community has not remained indifferent to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This emergency meeting, this very meeting, is a reflection of the will of all citizens who hope to see the United Nations remain faithful to its founding promise, that is, to protect the peace and security of succeeding generations. The General Assembly has the mandate and the moral obligation to act when the Security Council cannot do just that. Today, more than ever before, this principle must guide our collective action. It is for this reason that today we raise our voice loud and clear, and we will never tire of doing just that. We are speaking out to reaffirm basic principles enshrined in international law and international humanitarian law, principles regarding the urgent need for a ceasefire and to protect civilians. We wish to echo the appeal issued in the resolution presented by the Security Council, an appeal to engage in a political process that will lead to a just, lasting, and definitive solution based on the two-state solution With Israel and Palestine living in peace and security in accordance with resolutions adopted by the United Nations. Madam President, the trust and the, the confidence in and credibility of this organization depends on our ability to act on behalf of those who cannot speak out. For this reason, we are grateful to all of those that voted in favor of the resolution. That resolution has the protection of human life at its heart, as well as the imperative need for peace. Chile values and is hopeful in view of the mediation efforts and the peace proposal recently presented by the United States. We will continue championing a ceasefire, advocating for the release of all hostages and the access of all humanitarian aid necessary for the civilian population. Moreover, we appreciate the holding of the International Conference on the Two-State Solution that was held last week at this General Assembly. It was an invaluable demonstration of consensus, and it was an inspiring example of multilateral action. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Chile. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation.

Madam President, distinguished colleagues, nearly 2 weeks ago, On September 18th, the United States, for the 7th time since the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict on October 7th, 2023, used its veto to block a draft resolution prepared by the non-permanent members of the Security Council, a resolution focused on the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. That document contained nothing that would not have found support among the overwhelming majority of of delegations gathered in this hall. It contained the demand for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, the release of all hostages held by Hamas, the lifting of the humanitarian blockade of Gaza, and the provision of safe and unhindered access to those in need. Unfortunately, in Washington and in West Jerusalem, these fundamental humanitarian elements aimed at alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people are stubbornly being interpreted as a reward to Hamas from the international community for the terrorist attack of October 7th. That same distorted logic is being applied to the recent wave of recognitions of Palestine by a number of Western states. It is difficult to understand how the international community is supposedly indulging Hamas when it demands the immediate and unconditional release of hostages, and when the New York Declaration clearly states that future control over Gaza should be transferred to the Palestinian National Authority. The Hamas attack on October 7th undoubtedly deserves condemnation, but it cannot be used to justify the collective punishment of innocent Palestinians or as a pretext to fuel war in the Middle East. In our view, the most recent veto was more of a gift to Israel, an undeserved reward for West Jerusalem's course of continuing military operations in Gaza, regardless of civilian casualties and the horrific humanitarian catastrophe in the Strip. Washington is thus attempting to reduce the role of the Security Council to that of a passive observer of the tragedy which is unfolding. Even the resolutions that were adopted over the past 2 years were either publicly declared non-legally binding like Resolution 2728, or remained on paper like Resolution 2735 with the infamous Biden plan. However, the Security Council must act. It must not content itself with the role assigned to it by the US and Israel. Our efforts must focus on the prospect of a two-state solution, which West Jerusalem is trying to cast aside at all costs. cost. We note that the situation in the occupied Palestinian territory and in the Middle East will be one of the key agenda items at the first Russia-League of Arab States summit, which will be held in Moscow on October 15th. We are convinced that the principled position of 14 out of 15 Security Council members and our collective efforts are bearing fruit. The Security Council's consideration of the draft resolution, as well as the recent high-level international conference to support the two-state solution have given momentum to the negotiation process around the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. In this context, serious attention should be given to the plan recently presented by U.S. President Donald Trump to end Israel's military operation in Gaza. That plan includes important elements such as a ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, release of hostages, hostages and detainees, scaling up humanitarian aid under UN auspices and as well as those of the Red Crescent, rejection of forced displacement of Gazans, and occupation or annexation of Gaza. We note that this initiative has been supported by leading countries of the Arab and Muslim world. The Palestinian National Authority is also ready to constructively engage with all partners develop a comprehensive peace agreement. Importantly, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not opposed the plan. We are convinced that any steps and initiatives aimed at the immediate cessation of hostilities and bloodshed in Gaza deserve support. The next stage should be the launch of large-scale efforts to rebuild the infrastructure of the Strip, which lies in ruins due to the hostilities. We hope that the plan will receive sustained support from both sides and that its successful implementation will pave the way for the relaunching of the peace process on a universally recognized international legal basis centered around the two-state solution. There is no alternative to this. Moreover, during the 2 rounds of the High-Level International Conference on Palestine, a broad consensus was confirmed regarding the recognition of the legitimate rights and aspirations of of the Palestinian people to their own independent state within the 1967 borders, with its capital in East Jerusalem, coexisting in peace and security with Israel. This is a position that Russia has consistently and unwaveringly held for many years. Thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of

Madam President, we recognize and value the leadership shown by the elected members of the Security Council of the United Nations.

When they championed and tabled draft resolution S/2025/583, we deeply regret the fact that that text, whose primary goal was to demand an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, as well as the release of all hostages still in Hamas hands, as well as Unfettered access of humanitarian aid. We deeply regret that it was vetoed by a permanent member of the Council on the 18th of September. Guatemala reaffirms its support for the Franco-Mexican initiative. That initiative seeks to suspend the veto when what is at stake is preventing or halting situations involving mass atrocities. As the United Nations, we have not discharged our mandate, that is, to act when military operators lay waste to individuals, families, or communities in their entirety in the name of security and sovereignty, particularly when what we're talking about are urgent decisions to save lives and to guarantee adherence to international humanitarian law. We have failed in that mission. Madam President, in Guatemala's view, a last peace in the region will not— will only be achieved if we apply a political solution and not a military one. Our solution must be based on the coexistence of 2 states, a solution which allows Israel and Palestine to live side by side in peace and security within defined, safe, and internationally recognized borders. This should guarantee the peaceful coexistence of the 2 peoples in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the Security Council and the United Nations General Assembly. As a founding member of this organization, Guatemala reaffirms its commitment to the fundamental principles of multilateralism. These principles must guide our collective efforts to preserve peace, protect human rights, and to guarantee the dignity The responsibility to protect, prevent, and respond to threats against peace is a responsibility that falls squarely on all of our shoulders, but particularly on those of the permanent members of the Security Council. They have a particular duty to defend the international rule-based order. International peace and security cannot continue to be compromised by the paralysis of the Security Council or a lack of political will within it. To continue with that state of affairs would not only call into question the effectiveness of the Security Council, but the very legitimacy which underpins its existence. Once again, we reiterate that the Security Council must act with resolve and a full sense of its responsibility. It must discharge its mandate as established by the United Nations Charter. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Guatemala, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Spain.

Madam President, Spain is grateful for the convening of this United Nations General Assembly special session following the Security Council's inability to adopt a resolution calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire on the 18th of September. That followed the veto being cast by one of its permanent members. We wish to thank the Security Council And particularly the 14 members of it that voted in favour of the resolution. We thank them for their efforts to agree upon a text to put an end to the violence in Gaza. As we stand just a few days away from marking 2 years since the beginning of the war, the Security Council's agreement was more necessary than ever. Spain condemns a conflict that has created an unconscionable number of civilian victims in Gaza. More than 65,000 civilians have died since the indiscriminate and brutal terrorist attacks waged by Hamas against Israel on the 7th of October. It is vital that we put an end to the violence in Gaza and usher in a new phase. We will continue to urge parties to reach a ceasefire agreement that allows for the unconditional release of hostages and the rapid, unfettered entry of humanitarian aid. We are grateful to the mediators for their work, and we encourage them to continue. With this in mind, Spain commends the plan presented by the United States. It may constitute a significant step forward. We appeal to the parties to commit to ending the violence. It is urgent that we halt the suffering that has gone on for too long. The war must end, and we must work to bring about a lasting peace on the basis of mutual of the implementation of the two-state solution. In this connection, the historic New York Declaration, supported by the vast majority of the international community, and the Peace Conference in New York for the implementation of the two-state solution confirmed that there is strong consensus within the international community around the need to implement the two-state solution that is seen as the only viable path towards a just and lasting peace. It is our roadmap to end the conflict. And in accordance with the New York Declaration, the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution is the mechanism that will allow us to turn proposals into concrete actions. Spain has always been very clear as regards its position on the conflict. The ratcheting up of Israeli military operations on the city of Gaza The destruction of critical infrastructure such as hospitals or schools, the forced displacement of the Palestinian population, are flagrant violations of international law, of international humanitarian law, and of international human rights law. In the West Bank, we condemn the growing settler violence, the operations of the Israeli forces, and the policy of settlement expansion. Spain reiterates that settlements are illegal. Under international law. They are a threat to peace and they hinder the implementation of the two-state solution. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is marked by famine and is unconscionable. We will continue to demand the rapid and unfettered entry of humanitarian aid at scale. This aid must be distributed by the United Nations agencies and by other international humanitarian organizations in accordance with humanitarian principles. We call upon Israel to guarantee that NGOs can operate beyond the 10th of November, and we call upon them to remove all obstacles stymieing their work. Spain will continue to decisively support UNRWA, both financially and politically, to preserve the agency's essential role, including in the stabilization phase. In this connection, the Spanish government has announced an additional contribution of €10 million to UNRWA. Our aid to the organization now stands at €60 million disbursed since the 7th of October. We appeal to the other member states to financially support UNRWA and to protect its mandate, which is set to be renewed in November 2025. In the face of current challenges, Spain reiterates its support for the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice. We defend their work. We reiterate our belief that international law is fully applicable, including international humanitarian law. Madam President, stabilization when we come to the day after the war requires our immediate attention. The political and financial support of the Palestinian Authority is vital so that it, as a united government, can assume its responsibilities in all Palestinian territory. The Palestinian Authority is our partner in peace. And Spain reiterates that Hamas has no role to play in the future of Gaza or Palestine. All of the international community must support the PA so that it can be successful in restoring security and basic services, and so that it can take on the task of rebuilding Gaza. With that in mind, Spain, together with Saudi Arabia, Norway, and France, have launched the Emergency Coalition for Palestine. 12 countries are already part of that coalition. As much as this coalition seeks to avoid the financial collapse of the PA, we also need to maintain our financial and political support for the PA. This coalition seeks to do that because it's necessary to preserve the two-state solution. I wish to thank the states that have joined the coalition and encourage others to do so. To conclude, Spain once again reaffirms that the only solution to the conflict in the Middle East is the implementation of the two-state solution. to make decisive progress in that direction. We need to put an end first and foremost to the unbearable violence in Gaza. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of España, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Thailand.

Mr. President, Thailand shares profound concern with the international community over the grave and prolonged humanitarian situation in Gaza.

This hardship has gone too far and too long that it must now come to an immediate end. Thailand urges all parties concerned to exercise the utmost restraint to prevent further escalation.

An immediate ceasefire agreement is imperative to ensure that the full protection of civilians and the immediate, safe, and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance to all those in need in accordance with international humanitarian law. Thailand welcomes the ongoing efforts of the international community, including those led by the President of the United States, to facilitate dialogue towards ending the conflict and pursuing a path to peace.

We encourage all parties to maintain this momentum and to turn plans and commitments into concrete action so that the suffering of innocent civilians can be alleviated and lasting peace and security in the Middle East be realized.

Thailand reiterates our unwavering support for peaceful resolution through genuine dialogue between Israel and Palestine in line with two-state solution whereby the states of Israel and Palestine coexist side by side in peace, security, and mutual recognition in accordance with international law and relevant UN resolutions. In this spirit, Thailand joins the international community in endorsing the New York Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.

Madam President, Thailand will continue to closely monitor developments in Gaza and render our support to all initiatives that seek to transform collective resolve into concrete actions towards a future of sustainable peace, stability, security for Israel and Palestine.

Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Thailand, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland.

Madame la Présidente.

Madam President, thank you for convening this meeting. Since the adoption in 2022 of the Initiative on the Exercise of the Right of Veto by this Assembly, 23 vetoes have been cast by the permanent members of the Security Council. Our message remains the same: we advocate for a more responsible and restrained use of the veto. We deeply regret It is unfortunate that the draft resolution submitted by the elected members of the Security Council on the war in Gaza and supported by 14 of its members failed to be adopted due to a veto. Against a backdrop of great human suffering, the Security Council has once again been prevented from fulfilling its responsibilities for peace and security. The escalation of military operations in central Gaza is exacerbating an already untenable situation. The draft resolution contained essential demands: an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the unconditional and immediate release of all hostages, and safe, rapid, and unhindered humanitarian access. Switzerland has repeatedly reiterated these demands. The parties must respect their obligations under international law, in particular international humanitarian law and human rights law, and they must protect the civilian population, including UN humanitarian personnel. This also includes Israel's obligations as the occupying power. Israel's occupation of the Palestinian territories is illegal and must end, as confirmed by the International Court of Justice. Switzerland rejects any attempt at annexation or measures that would facilitate the forced displacement of Palestinians. A political horizon must be re-established and the war in Gaza must end. In this regard, Switzerland welcomes the proposal put forward by the United States on Monday. Any initiative must be based on international law, guarantee the protection of civilians, the release of all hostages, unimpeded humanitarian assistance, humanitarian access, respect for international humanitarian and human rights law, and must lay the foundations for a lasting peace based on the two-state solution. On September 12th, this Assembly demonstrated its support for these principles and its determination to achieve them by endorsing the New York Declaration. Switzerland encourages the parties to take advantage of this momentum to end the spiral of violence And guarantee the self-determination of the Palestinian people and the security of Israel. Switzerland welcomes the efforts to stabilize the Palestinian Authority, whose reform program is essential. With this in mind, we support the Emergency Coalition for the Financial Sustainability of the Palestinian Authority. Switzerland will continue to support these efforts, maintain a strong humanitarian response, and offer its good offices to facilitate dialogue. Madam President, let us work together and constructively in favor of a lasting peace based on the two-state solution. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Switzerland, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.

Thank you, Madam President.

Madam President, thank you, Madam President. President, nearly 2 years into the conflict in Gaza, it has resulted in appalling civilian casualties and a humanitarian catastrophe, undermining the bottom line of human conscience and international rule of law. The International community has long issued an overwhelming call for a ceasefire and an end to the hostilities. Time and again, the Security Council has sought to take action, only to be forcefully blocked by the United States again and again. On September 18th, the United States once again vetoed a Security Council draft resolution on Gaza. China expresses its deep disappointment and regret over this. If it were not for the United States' repeated abuse of the veto, the Security Council's response to the Gaza crisis wouldn't have been so inadequate. If it were not for the United States' unreserved shielding of Israel, Security Council resolutions and international law wouldn't have been so flagrantly violated. President, the human tragedy in Gaza cannot be allowed to continue. China welcomes and supports all efforts that are conducive to easing tensions and calls on the international community to stay united and take urgent actions to restore peace. First, a lasting ceasefire. A lasting ceasefire in Gaza must be achieved immediately. History has repeatedly demonstrated that there is no military resolution and that one's own security cannot be built on the insecurity of others. The conflict has already claimed the lives of more than 66,000 Gazans, and prolonging the conflict will only lead to more death and hatred. China urges Israel to immediately cease all military operations in Gaza and immediately halt its dangerous plan to take over Gaza City. Second, the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza must be alleviated. Under the man-made blockade, Gaza is witnessing an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe. China reiterates that the weaponization of humanitarian aid is unacceptable, demilitarized aid distribution mechanism is unacceptable, and attacks on aid seeking civilians and humanitarian workers are unacceptable. Israel must fulfill its obligations under international humanitarian law as the occupying power, fully restore humanitarian access, and support the work of the United Nations and other humanitarian agencies. Third, the two-state solution must be implemented. The two-state solution remains the only viable solution to the Palestinian question. Both Gaza and the West Bank are inseparable parts of Palestinian territory. Any postwar governance and reconstruction arrangements must adhere to the principle of Palestinians governing Palestine and respect the will of the Palestinian people. The international community should pour greater efforts and take concrete and irreversible actions to implement the two-state solution while firmly rejecting any unilateral actions that erode its foundation. China stands ready to work with the international community to make unremitting efforts to put an end to the hostilities in Gaza, alleviate the humanitarian catastrophe, implement the two-state solution, and ultimately achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting settlement of the Palestinian Thank you, President.

I thank the distinguished representative of China. We have heard the last speaker in this debate. The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of Agenda Item 64. The meeting is adjourned.