General Assembly: 2nd plenary meeting, 80th session

Good morning. The 2nd plenary meeting of the General Assembly is called to order. The General Assembly will consider the first report of the General Committee as announced in the Journal of the United Nations. I invite the Assembly's attention to Section 2, T.W.O., of the report of the Committee entitled Organization of the Session, which contains recommendations including those concerning the committee, rationalization of work, closing date of the session, the general debate, and the conduct of the meetings. In paragraph 10, the committee brings to the attention of the Assembly that the general debate will begin on Tuesday, 23rd September, and will continue on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, 21st to 26th September and on Monday, 29th September, and recommends that it also continue on Saturday, 27th September 2025 in order to maximize the numbers of speakers during that week. May I take that the Assembly takes note of the information contained in paragraph 10 and approves the recommendation that the general debates Continue on Saturday, 27 September 2025. It is so decided. In paragraph 16, the Committee brings to the attention of the Assembly information on rights of reply to addresses made by Heads of State. May I take it that the Assembly takes note of the information provided? It is so decided. I believe that it would be beneficial to address all the remaining organizational matters concerning the Assembly as a whole in accordance with past practice. May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to take note of all the information and to approve all of the recommendations of the Committee contained in Section 2 of the report? It is so decided. I now invite members' attention to Section 3, dealing with the adoption of the agenda. The allocation of items will be dealt with subsequently in Section 4. In paragraph 26, in connection with item 37 of the draft agenda entitled Question Of the Commemorative Island of Mayotte, the Committee recommends its inclusion under Heading B on the understanding that there would be no consideration of this item by the Assembly. May I take it that the Assembly approves this recommendation? It is so decided. In paragraph 26 in connection with item 60 of the draft agenda entitled Question of the Malagasy Islands of Glorious Juan de Nova Europa Bassas da Índia, the committee recommends that consideration of this item be deferred to the 81st session of the Assembly and that the item be included in the provisions agenda of that session. May I take that the Assembly approves this recommendation? It is so decided. We turn now to the remaining items recommended by the Committee in paragraph 27 of its report for adoption by the Assembly, taking into account the decisions just adopted with respect to specific items. Bearing in mind that the agenda is organized under 9 headings, we shall consider the inclusion of items under each heading Items 1 and 2 have already been dealt with. We shall now turn to items 3 to 8. May I take it that these items are included in the agenda? It is so decided. We turn now to the inclusion of the items listed under Heading A, Promotion of Sustained Economic Growth and Sustainable Development in accordance With the relevant resolutions of the General Assembly and recent United Nations conferences. May I take it that the items listed under Heading A are included in the agenda? It is so decided. We turn now to Heading B, Maintenance of International Peace and Security. May I take it that the items listed under Heading B are included in the agenda? It is so decided. Next, we turn to Heading C, Development of Africa. May I take it that the items listed under this heading is included in the agenda? It is so decided. Now we come to Heading D, Promotion of Human Rights. May I take it that the items listed under Heading D are included in the agenda? It is so decided. Heading E. It is entitled Effective Coordination of Humanitarian Assistance Efforts. May I take it that the item listed under this heading is included in the agenda? It is so decided. Next, we turn to Heading F, Promotion of Justice and International Law. May I take it that the items listed under Heading F are included in the agenda? It is so decided.

Bless you.

Bless you. Now we turn to Heading G, Disarmament. May I take it that items listed under this heading are included in the agenda? It is so decided. Heading H, it's entitled Drug Control, Crime Prevention, and Combating International Terrorism in All Its Forms and Manifestations. May I take it that the items listed under these headings are included in the agenda? It is so decided. Lastly, we turn to Heading I, Organizational, Administrative, and Other Matters. May I take it that the items listed under Heading I are included in the agenda? It is so decided. Now we turn to Section 4 of the report of the Committee on allocation of items. We shall first turn to the recommendations contained in paragraph 30 and its subparagraphs. May I take it that it's the wish of the Assembly to take note of the information that the Committee took note of and approved the recommendations contained in paragraph 30 and its subparagraphs?

Yes.

It is so decided. We now turn to paragraph 31 to consider the remaining items. May I take it that the Assembly approves the allocation of the remaining items as outlined in paragraph 27 of the report of the committee, taking into account decisions taken under sections 3 and 4 of the report? It is so decided. I give now the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation.

We disassociate ourselves from the consensus on the report of the General Committee when it comes to the recommendations on including into the agenda of this upcoming session of General Assembly of Item 63, namely the situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, which was passed by the committee through a vote. The agenda item with this title is something that for us does not exist. The title which was created by Kyiv does not reflect the real situation. There are no occupied territories in Ukraine. And the history of this issue goes back to, at the very least, 2014, where, as a result of something of that— a bloody coup d'état, which was sponsored by other forces— this resulted in a force— in a government by nationalists, which is characterized by discrimination and persecution of millions of Russian-speaking nationals of their country. And also those who are the believers under the Orthodox Church. And Kiev declared the people in the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics— they declared them to be terrorists, and using the pretext of this so-called anti-terrorist operation, unleashed a campaign to physically exterminate the people who lived in those republics. The long year-lasting repressions and violence on behalf of self-proclaimed authorities in Kiev did not leave the Russian and Russian-speaking people of any choice rather than the right to realize their right to self-determination through democratic referenda. And the formulation of this agenda item from the get-go does not allow for a full discussion. It only creates further tension and impedes the peace process. Essentially, this item is something that is needed by Kiev and its Western mentors only so as to disseminate very well-known propaganda mantras, and this only deepens the crisis and prevents peace. We call upon all delegations who genuinely want to see the Ukrainian crisis settled to ignore this agenda item and also not support what is being introduced into that by the Kiev regime, namely the propaganda documents that are being introduced under it. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the Russian Federation, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United States.

Good morning, and thank you, Madam President. As we observe the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter, this is a moment to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring the UN is both effective and efficient in delivering on its core mandates. The United States generally supports the measures aimed at streamlining the General Assembly's work and reducing overlaps and redundancies. That includes, for example, efforts by the General Committee to harmonize practices in the committee's work with a view to supporting a timely and responsive committee and ultimately assembly decisions, reducing the number of meetings, streamlining agenda items, and leveraging technology for efficiency. There are a number of items that will be taken up in the 80th session, including those under subheading A on promotion of sustained economic growth and sustainable development in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the General Assembly and recent United Nations conferences that unhelpfully distract from the UN's ability to focus on promoting international peace and security. At the same time, we should avoid efforts to expand the role of the Assembly in a manner that is not consistent with the UN Charter. Per General Assembly Revitalization Resolution 79/327 adopted on September 5th, and in the spirit of UN 80, we look forward to rigorously reviewing the Assembly's working methods during the 80th session and submitting concrete proposals to the General Committee. The United States will support measures that streamline the Assembly's work, reduce the number of meetings, and leverage technology for efficiency. Colleagues, we note that the 6 new agenda items that have been proposed this year by member states for the 80th session— inclusion of new items on the agenda is without prejudice to any positions that the United States will take on the substantive items, requests, and resolutions. We look forward to carefully considering these new observer requests substantively during the 6th Committee's deliberations. Thank you.

I thank the representative of the United Nations— United States, I'm sorry, and I give the word to the distinguished representative of Ukraine.

Thank you, Madam President. We thank the General Assembly for the adoption by consensus the inclusion of the item the situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine in the agenda of its 80th session. Just to remind that the decision to include this item on the agenda was made by the General Assembly itself. In Resolution A/77/229, the Situation of Human Rights in the Temporarily Occupied Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol, Ukraine, the Assembly, and I quote, decided to include the item entitled the Situation in the Temporarily Occupied Territories of Ukraine in the agenda of the General Assembly until the violations committed as a result of foreign occupation and control of parts of the territory of Ukraine are duly dealt with and the territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders is fully restored. The results of the vote called by the Russian Federation at the General Committee meeting on Wednesday with the intention to remove the item, the situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, from the agenda of its 80th session speak for themselves. 19 members of the General Committee have supported keeping the item on the agenda. The lonely delegation initiator of this senseless move who failed was the Russian Federation. This very General Assembly, the most representative UN body, has been consistently and unequivocally vocal about naming the aggression and rejecting any attempts to alter Ukraine's territorial integrity. All the relevant UNGA resolutions, particularly A/68/262, Territorial Integrity of Ukraine, of 3rd March 2014, and Territorial Integrity of Ukraine, Defending the Principles of the Charter of the United Nations, adopted on 12th October 2022, To name just a few, speak about the appropriateness. Just last week, on 4 September, the General Assembly held a debate on this very item. The broad participation and strong engagement of member states underscored its significance. It has confirmed that the situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine remains grave and requires international communities' and this Assembly's attention. Madam President, The Russian Federation's attempt to challenge this item in the agenda clearly demonstrates that Russia exists in a self-constructed alternative reality, one in which the norms of international law have no effect and in which it seeks to draw other states. At a time when Russia continues its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, it is more crucial than ever that this agenda item remains before the General Assembly. It is our shared responsibility to ensure continued monitoring and accountability for violations of international law and the UN Charter, and we are grateful to all member states who support retaining this item on the agenda of the General Assembly. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Ukraine. The Assembly has thus concluded its consideration of the first report of the committee. I would now like to draw the attention of delegates to a matter concerning the participation of the Holy See in its capacity as an observer state in the sessions and work of the Assembly. In accordance with Resolution 58314 of July 1st, And the note by the Secretary-General contained in document A/58/871, the Holy See in its capacity as an observer state will participate in the work of current session of the Assembly with no further need for precursory explanation prior to any intervention. I would I would also like to draw the attention of delegates to a matter concerning the participation of the State of Palestine in its capacity as an observer state in the sessions and work of the Assembly. In accordance with Resolution 3237 of the 29th session of November 22nd, 1974, 43 states 52/177 of 15 December 1988, 52/250 of 7 July 1998, 67/19 of 29 November 2012, and ES/10/2012.

Thank you.

stroke 23 of May 10th, 2024, and the notes by the Secretary-General contained in documents A/52/1002, A/67/738, and A/ES/10/1003, the State of Palestine, in its capacity as an observer state, will participate in the work of the current session of the Assembly with no further need for a precautionary explanation prior to any intervention. In addition, I would like to draw the attention of delegates to a matter concerning the participation of the European Union in its capacity as observer in the sessions and work of the Assembly. In accordance with Resolution 65/276 of May 3rd, 2011, and the note by the Secretary-General contained in Document A/65/856, representatives of the European Union will participate in the work of the current session of the Assembly with no further need for a precautionary explanation prior to any The Assembly will begin its consideration of agenda item 35 entitled Question of Palestine to take action on a proposal announced in the Journal. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of France to introduce draft resolution A/80/L1/2011.

Thank you, Madam President.

Madam President. On behalf of France and Saudi Arabia, as well as all of the co-sponsor states, it's my honor to present draft resolution A80, the first one that the 80th session of the UN General Assembly is dealing with, and it's entitled Endorsement of the New York Declaration on the peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine and the implementation of the 2-state solution. In its preamble, the draft resolution recalls several key elements. First of all, it recalls Resolution ES 1024 of 18 September 2024, having decided to hold a high-level international conference for the peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine. And the implementation of the two-state solution under the auspices of the United Nations General Assembly during its 79th session. Second, the draft recalls Resolution 7981 of December 3rd, 2024, laying out the modalities for the conference and the plan for the conference to adopt a final document to implement the two-state solution. Third, the draft recalls Decision 79/573B of the General Assembly of the 5th of September 2025, deciding that the conference would resume its work during the General Assembly's 80th session on the 22nd of September 2025. Madam President, in its operative part, the draft resolution This resolution seeks for the General Assembly to endorse the New York Declaration. This declaration stems from the work that took place during the conference from the 28th to 30th of July, 2025, in New York, and it was drafted in collaboration with the 17 co-chairs of the working groups and on the basis of consultations with all of the participating states. This declaration lays out a single roadmap to deliver the two-state solution, and this thanks to major commitments made by the Palestinian Authority and by Arab countries for peace and security for all in the region. This roadmap involves an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all of the hostages. It involves the establishment of a Palestinian state that is viable and sovereign. It involves the disarmament of Hamas and its exclusion from governance in Gaza, and it involves the normalization between Israel and the Arab countries. And finally, it involves the implementation of collective security guarantees, including Israel. On behalf of France and Saudi Arabia, and on behalf of all of the co-sponsor states, for peace, for the achievement of the rights of peoples, for the settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian question, under the principles and values of the Charter. It's my honor to call upon the United Nations General Assembly to vote in favor of this draft resolution. Thank you.

Merci beaucoup. I thank the distinguished representative of France. We shall now proceed to consider this draft resolution A/80/Res.

1.

For your information, the draft resolution has closed for e-sponsorship. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

Thank you, Madam President. I should like to announce that since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed on the L document, the following countries have also become co-sponsors Australia.

Botswana.

Brazil.

Canada.

Chile.

China.

Cuba.

Finland. Gambia.

Iceland.

Jordan. Mexico, Morocco, Nigeria, Oman, San Marino, Slovenia, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and Zambia. Additionally, the delegation of South Africa has informed the Secretariat that it is no longer a co-sponsor of this draft resolution. If any other countries wish to co-sponsor A/AD/L1/Revision 1, please signify by pressing the microphone button now. I see Italy, Bahrain, Comoros, Japan, Kuwait, Mauritius, Gabon, and Chad, and Congo. Thank you, Madam President.

I thank the representative of the Secretariat. Before giving the floor for explanations of vote before the vote, may I remind delegations that they are strongly urged to limit explanation of vote to 5 minutes, which should in any case not exceed 10 minutes and be made from their seats And I would like to underline that also in the view of the discussions we are having on our reforms and delivering on the reforms ourselves. So please limit the explanations of vote to 5 minutes. I give the floor now to the distinguished representative of Israel.

Thank you, Madam Chair.

Madam President, this conference and the endorsement of this so-called declaration are not a serious attempt at peacemaking. These are procedural tactics, a misuse of this Assembly to force through by the back door what cannot stand at the negotiating table. Once again, we see externally drafted texts rushed forward without transparency or any debate in this Assembly. This erodes the legitimacy and trust of the UN. This one-sided declaration Will not be remembered as a step toward peace, only as another hollow gesture that weakens this Assembly's credibility. This is not diplomacy. It is theater, a carefully staged performance for headlines, not for peace. It doesn't shorten the war, it prolongs it. It does not weaken Hamas. It rewards them. It does not advance negotiations. It undermines them. And so we must ask, who benefits? Not the hostages in Hamas captivity. Not the people of Gaza. Not those who pray for real peace. The only beneficiary is Hamas. Consider France's recent pledge of statehood. Hamas welcomed it, praising, and I quote, they called it the political and moral pressure it puts on Israel. When terrorists are the ones cheering you, you have to ask yourself what you are doing. Some members of this Assembly treat this conference like a virtual reality game. You put on the headset and imagine peace is imminent. But it is only an illusion, entirely detached from reality. The reality is that Hamas still rules parts of Gaza, armed, entrenched, and vowing to strike again. To pretend otherwise is not diplomacy. It is delusion. You called in this so-called declaration for Hamas, and I quote, to end its rule in Gaza. Very nice. Very impressive. This Assembly may not openly speak it, but all of you know it. Israel is expected to remove Hamas from the equation. It's very nice that you mention it, but who is going to do it? It is on our shoulders to make it happen. We are left to do the real work to eliminate Hamas, the ultimate obstacle to peace. And make no mistake, Hamas is the biggest winner of any endorsement here today. By the time the speeches conclude, they will congratulate you. They will declare, this is the fruit of October 7th. This is their reward for storming across our borders, slaughtering entire families in their homes, burning people alive, kidnapping children and the elderly, raping women, and dragging hundreds into captivity. And now, with this declaration, they learn a deadly lesson: that such savagery brings political reward. That lesson is as dangerous as any weapon. And if anyone doubts that Hamas will continue down this path, look no further than this week's terrorist attack at a bus stop in Jerusalem. Innocent civilians gunned down as they waited for their morning commute. That is the proof Hamas and its allies will not stop. They do not seek peace. They test again and again whether terror still pays. Madam President, this declaration is one-sided. It does not designate Hamas as a terrorist organization. And it dares to equate the release of Israeli hostages with the release of convicted terrorists. Shame on you. This meaningless political maneuver takes place while innocent people remain blindfolded in Gaza's tunnels, starved, tortured, waiting. Meanwhile, Many members of this Assembly blindfold themselves by choice. By endorsing this declaration, you cover your own eyes. You choose not to see the truth, to ignore the facts. Israel will not wear that blindfold. We see the hostages. We see the terror. We see this declaration for what it is. A political gesture, an act of theater. Madam President, we will not allow Hamas to win in this Assembly what it could not gain on October 7th.

I thank the distinguished representative of Israel, and now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United States.

Thank you, Madam President. Colleagues, US opposition to this resolution should come as no surprise. The United States opposes the New York Declaration as we oppose the High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution and the resolution that mandated it. GA action on the New York Declaration is yet another misguided and ill-timed publicity stunt that undermines serious diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. Make no mistake, this resolution is a gift to Hamas. It is likewise cynical, transparently driven by the domestic politics rather than a serious foreign policy agenda. As Secretary Rubio has noted, progress in negotiations aimed at achieving a ceasefire over the summer collapsed when one of the states organizing the conference encouraged Hamas's intransigence by announcing its intention to recognize a conjectural Palestinian state. Far from promoting peace, the conference has already prolonged the war, emboldened Hamas, and harmed the prospects of peace and both short and long term. The United States will not participate in this insult to the victims of October 7th, but we will continue to lead real-world efforts to end the fighting and to deliver a permanent peace. We should be focused on how to end the war and eliminate and disarm Hamas. This war could end tomorrow if Hamas was disarmed, released hostages, and surrendered. But Hamas continues to refuse. Today's resolution is yet another counterproductive gesture that only rewards Hamas, drags out the war, and undercuts the very diplomatic efforts to free the hostages and end the suffering in Gaza, which the New York Declaration claims to support. This— the declaration this resolution endorses is merely another example of the stale thinking that has led to failure after failure in the Middle East peace negotiations for decades, but remains prevalent in the halls of the United Nations and among too many of its members. The declaration engages in disturbing moral equivalence and fails to recognize the reality that Hamas's terrorism on October 7th was the reason this war was necessary and Its refusal to free the hostages and lay down its arms is the reason this war continues. The version of the declaration being voted on today even continues to contain language endorsing the so-called right of return, which would mean the demographic death of Israel as a Jewish state. For these reasons, the United States urges delegations to join us in voting against the resolution. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United States. We have heard the last speaker in the explanation of vote before vote. The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/AD/L1/reservation 1 entitled Endorsement of the New York Declaration On the peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine and the implementation of the 2-state solution. A recorded vote has been requested. We shall now begin the voting process. Those in favor of draft resolution A/80/L1/reservation 1, please signify. Those against?

Abstentions?

The General Assembly is now voting on draft resolution A/80/L1/revision 1 entitled Endorsement of the New York Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two Will all delegations confirm that their votes are accurately reflected on the screen? The voting has been completed. Please lock the machine.

The result of the vote is as follows: in favor, 142; against, 10; abstentions, 12. Draft Resolution A/80/L1/revision 1 is adopted. Before giving the floor for explanations of vote after the vote, may I remind delegations again that they are strongly urged to limit explanation of vote to 5 minutes, which should in any case not exceed 10 minutes, and be made from their seats. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bulgaria.

Madam President, Bulgaria has supported the resolution we have just adopted and would like to reaffirm its principled support for the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and for the establishment of an independent, democratic and viable State of Palestine living side by side in peace and security with Israel. We recall that Bulgaria recognized the State of Palestine in 1988 and has consistently contributed to efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful two-state solution in line with international law and relevant UN resolutions. Bulgaria once again calls for an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages as well as for urgent measures to alleviate the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. We strongly condemn the terrorist acts of Hamas and stress the necessity of its permanent exclusion from the political realm. Bulgaria reiterates its unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, regardless of its objectives. Terrorism must never be associated with any faith, religion, or ethnicity. A coordinated international response remains essential in this regard. We expect all parties involved to adhere to this clear and consistent position. At the same time, Bulgaria acknowledges the complexity of implementing the two-state solution in the current political context. Certain elements of the declaration, including institutional reforms, electoral processes, and regional security mechanisms, will require further clarification and the establishment of reliable mechanisms to ensure their effectiveness. We underscore the importance of broad legitimacy and internal consensus within Palestinian society, as well as the constructive involvement of all relevant regional and international stakeholders. In closing, Bulgaria expresses its appreciation for the efforts of France and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in rallying the international community behind the two-state solution. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Bulgaria and I give the floor to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Thank you, Madam President. I thank you for convening us today, and I have the honor to deliver this explanation of vote on behalf of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Kingdom of the Netherlands expresses its gratitude to France and Saudi Arabia for convening the Conference on the Two-State Solution. The New York Declaration contains important elements such as the support for the right of self-determination of the Palestinian Palestinian people, in line with the ICJ advisory opinion of July 19th, 2024, and the rejection of any territorial reduction. We reiterate that Hamas is a terrorist organization, and we welcome the condemnation of the terrorist attacks committed on October 7th and the call to immediately and unconditionally release all hostages. Hamas must be disarmed and cannot be part of any future government in Gaza. The Kingdom of the Netherlands welcomes the clear support for the New York Declaration and the resumption of the conference during High-Level Week. The Kingdom of the Netherlands wishes to underline the need to stand together on the issue of the two-state solution, and we condemn the illegal E1 settlement plan, effectively splitting the occupied West Bank in 2. These plans constitute a clear violation of international law, and unilateral steps like these further undermine the viability of a future Palestinian state. The Kingdom of the Netherlands also strongly condemns plans that would amount to annexation to a large part of the West Bank, which would also constitute a flagrant violation of international law. We call on Israel not to take any steps toward annexation. We call on all parties to the conflicts to comply with their obligations under international law, in particular international humanitarian law. An independent, viable Palestinian state existing alongside a secure Israel is the only way this conflict can be resolved. We must persist in our decades-long pursuit of a two-state solution. For the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the recognition of a Palestinian state must be part of a political process leading to a negotiated two-state solution. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. I give the floor now to Lithuania.

Thank you, Madam President. I would like to deliver this explanation of vote after the vote on behalf of Lithuania. Lithuania thanks the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and France for their efforts to organize the high-level international conference for the peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine and the implementation of the two-state solution. We would also like to thank the co-chairs of the working groups for their work and the collective action to revive a political process in this regard towards a just, peaceful, and lasting settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Lithuania voted in favor of the draft resolution entitled The Endorsement of the New York Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution. However, our endorsement does not extend to the annex of the outcome document. It does not prejudge any sovereign decision by the Republic of Lithuania regarding recognition of the State of Palestine. Madam President, implementation of the two-state solution implies worldwide recognition of two states, Israel and Palestine. Lithuania recalls its statement during the first session of the High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution in July 2025. In particular, Lithuania expects that a way can be found to address legitimate Israeli concerns and have them join this process in the future. Furthermore, Lithuania calls for international consensus that by resorting to terrorism and hostage-taking, Hamas has become a major obstacle to the two-state solution and they cannot be part of the future Palestinian state. Lithuania continues to call for a peaceful settlement of Israeli-Palestinian conflict achieved through negotiations and reflecting the interests of both parties, the region, and the international community, based on international law and in line with the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735 of 2024. Lithuania remains committed to support the implementation of the two-state solution and intends to participate in the further international efforts in this regard. I thank you, Madam President.

I thank the representative of Lithuania. I give the floor now to Slovakia, followed by Paraguay, and followed by Marshall Islands.

Thank you, Madam President. Slovakia wishes to express its appreciation for the efforts undertaken in the preparation of the New York Declaration. We recognize the potential of the Declaration in promoting a comprehensive, just, and durable peace in the Middle East. Having in mind the current desperate situation in Gaza, Slovakia has voted to endorse the New York Declaration. Nonetheless, we would like to take this opportunity to clarify that our endorsement does not extend to the annex attached to the declaration. This position reflects our current considerations regarding some of the proposals and recommendations included in the annex and does not preclude our future engagement or dialogue on its contents. We also remain committed to constructive and continued dialogue with all partners, including United States and Israel, on a post-conflict arrangement in Gaza, One in which all hostages are released, Hamas is disarmed, and is excluded from any role. Thank you very much for your attention.

I thank the representative of Slovakia and give the floor to Paraguay.

Thank you, Madam President. Our delegation advocates for harmony between nations and reaffirms that the road towards understanding and dialogue and negotiations are the best way forward as well, as long as it includes all parties. Paraguay officially recognizes the 2 states, Israel and Palestine. Therefore, we believe that this process and that we're not part of another key stakeholders aren't is not the way to achieve lasting peace because it doesn't meet the support of one of the states involved in this, and that's why Paraguay voted against. Thank you.

Muchas gracias to Paraguay. I give the floor now to the Marshall Islands, followed by South Africa and Latvia.

Thank you, Madam President. The Republic of the Marshall Islands wishes to provide a brief statement in explanation of our vote. Our yes vote today affirms the path of peace and negotiations which the Marshall Islands and the international community has consistently supported for over a quarter century. And this solution was long acknowledged by both Palestinian and Israeli representatives, as well as those— as well as close diplomatic partners as an arena of mutual focus. And this solution and the lasting peace which would accompany it is slipping away almost beyond our collective grasp. It is very difficult to envision any effective peace process without the two-state solution as a central focus. Our vote today in support of the General Assembly adopting the New York Declaration is not to be mistaken for formal diplomatic recognition of Palestine, which is a separate and sovereign national act. The reality of Hamas, not the Palestinian Authority, as a violent criminal force, criminal force controlling force in Gaza has to be addressed. Hamas has never acknowledged the two-state solution. Lasting peace in the Middle East won't happen because of the UN majority vote, but such peace won't happen without a 2-state solution at the center of future negotiations. Our vote today is not intended to take any partisan side, but to urge and encourage that only— the only pathway to eventual peace between Israel and Palestine be kept open. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the Marshall Islands and give the floor to South Africa.

Thank you, Madam President. I take the floor in explanation of vote on the resolution endorsement of the New York Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and implementation of the two-state solution. We express our gratitude to you for convening this meeting and thank the co-chairs, France and Saudi Arabia, for a successful high-level international conference for peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine and the implementation of the two-state solution. This is a very important and long overdue matter. We also thank the co-chairs of the various working groups for their efforts in the buildup to and during the High-Level Conference in July. As we meet here today, the killings in Gaza are unabating. The genocide continues without any hope that it will soon end. The State of Israel continues to act with impunity and without fear of being held accountable. In recent days, it has extended its illegal actions by now also attacking Qatar in a blatant violation of international law, breaching the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity while also compromising the safeguarding of civilians as outlined in the United Nations Charter and international humanitarian law. This flagrant violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the State of Qatar comes against the background of the Government of Qatar playing a prominent role as facilitator to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all hostages held by Hamas. Madam President, we note with deep concern the motion adopted by the Israeli Knesset calling for applying Israeli sovereignty over the occupied West Bank and the Jordan Valley, signaling the intention of Israel to annex this territory. This could effectively bury the two-state solution and continue with blatant violation of international law, including UN resolutions and ICJ rulings which have given hope to the Palestinian people. This motion, together with statements such as those made yesterday by Prime Minister Netanyahu that, and I quote, there will be no Palestinian state, this land is ours, close quote, undermines the prospect of a Palestinian state. Despite the horror that is happening in Gaza or the occupied Palestinian territories in general, we are pleased that UN member states in their numbers have come out in support of the call to end the atrocities in Palestine and implement the almost 80-year-old promise of Palestinian statehood. We are hopeful that the end of the occupation is within reach and the creation of a contiguous Palestine state existing peacefully and side by side with the State of Israel along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, will soon become a reality. This resolution that we have adopted today reaffirming the two-state solution should not distract us from the urgent efforts that are needed to ensure an immediate ceasefire, and an end to Israel's genocidal war against the Palestinian people. We should be emboldened to act so that negotiations for a just peace can commence. The stability of the Middle East region and international peace and security in general depends on a just and peaceful resolution to the question of Palestine and holding those who violate international law accountable. To ensure that all states are safe from wanton and brazen aggression, that— and that international law remains credible. At the request of the General Assembly, the ICJ has issued an advisory opinion finding Israel's continued presence in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, unlawful, and that it must end rapidly as possible. The Court determined Israel's policies and practices, including its settlement expansion, land confiscation, and discriminatory legislation, violate fundamental international law principles such as the right to self-determination and the prohibition of acquiring territory by force. The opinion also sets obligations for all states to not recognize the illegal situation and not provide aid to maintain it and requires the UN General Assembly and Security Council to consider actions to bring the unlawful presence to an end. A year ago, this Assembly adopted Resolution A/1024 calling on all member states to take necessary measures to implement this ICJ advisory opinion. This creates legal obligations on us, all of us, which we must adhere to. Madam President, South Africa voted in favor of the resolution today and welcomed the outcome on 5 September 2025 with a clear understanding that the outcome document as described in this paragraph, in paragraph 42 of the Declaration, was prepared under the authority of the co-chairs and is seen as their own view on the outcome of discussions as well as proposals from the working groups and does not preclude a more inclusive approach to negotiations towards finalizing the two-state solution and a true realization of the right to self-determination of the people of Palestine. The outcome serves as an important reference for what is required for a viable two-state solution, while not constituting a determination or prejudgment of the negotiations required to achieve this. Once again, we thank the co-chairs for this outcome document and be assured of South Africa's continued support in this process. I thank you.

I thank the representative of South Africa. I give the floor now to Latvia, followed by the Islamic Republic of Iran and Malaysia.

Thank you, Madam President. Latvia voted yes on the resolution because we continue to call for a peaceful settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict achieved through negotiations and reflecting the interests of both parties, the region, and the international community, based on international law and in line with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735 and United Nations Security Council Resolution 1397. The ongoing deadly violence proves that lasting peace cannot be achieved by military means. To this regard, we reiterate our solidarity with civilians on both sides of the conflict, as they are the main victims of this ongoing escalation. International community must continue all diplomatic efforts to reach a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, to secure the release of hostages, and provide urgent surge of humanitarian aid. Madam President, Latvia has endorsed the New York Declaration on the peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine and the implementation of the 2-state solution, whereby taking note that its annexes were not subject to today's voting. Today, Latvia's decision to join the declaration does not constitute recognition of the State of Palestine, nor does it render its recognition imminent, retaining a sovereign right to decide upon the question once the relevant conditions are met. Latvia will continue to support the two-state solution and participate in the subsequent meetings of this matter, including in the format of the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Latvia and give the floor now to the Islamic Republic of

In the name of God, the Compassionate, Most Merciful.

Mr. President, honorable colleagues, as our world faces an unprecedented situation, the fundamental values we collectively uphold, including humanity, justice, and integrity, are under severe threat by an occupying power whose policies reflect systematic discrimination, territorial expansionism, and disregard for international humanitarian norms. After nearly 2 years of relentless military assault, the Palestinian people, especially in Gaza, are enduring mass killing, forced displacement, starvation, and the systematic destruction of civilian life and infrastructure in flagrant violation of international law. The devastation is not confined to Palestine alone. Israel's repeated aggressions against other countries further destabilize the region and threaten international peace and security. Decades of concessions, diplomatic overtures, and normalization attempts have failed to halt Israel's crimes and illegal occupation. Instead emboldening it to intensify its expansionist, racist, and colonial policies. The systematic disregard for United Nations resolutions shielded by repeated Security Council vetoes and sustained arms transfers has demonstrated that current approaches, though presented as decisive, cannot achieve their stated objectives. A just and lasting solution will remain out of reach unless the international community adopts binding resolutions that address the root causes, ensure accountability, and uphold the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people. Madam President, I'm sorry, I said before Mr. President. Madam President, the Islamic Republic of Iran has consistently called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza, unimpeded humanitarian access, and reconstruction that fully respects the rights of the Palestinian people. Iran also recalls its unwavering support for the Palestinian people's steadfast resistance to occupation, foreign intervention, and apartheid policies. Iran affirms that lasting peace can only be achieved through ending the occupation and fully realizing the independence and sovereignty of the State of Palestine. This must be grounded in the genuine will of its original inhabitants, Muslims, Jews, and Christians alike, expressed through a free and inclusive referendum, as proposed in document S/2019/862. In conclusion, Madam President, Iran believes that any viable solution must be based on recognizing the Palestinian people's inalienable right to self-determination, rejecting any form of marginalization or forced displacement, and ensuring the full and equal participation of every segment of Palestinian society in shaping the country's future. The international community must urge the Security Council to recommend Palestine's admission as a full member state of the United Nations and ensure full accountability for Israel's war crimes, genocide, and prolonged illegal occupation, including through the imposition of targeted sanctions and the suspension of its UN membership in order to safeguard the credibility of this organization. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran and give the floor now to Malaysia, followed by Pakistan and Algeria. Malaysia?

Thank you, Madam President. Malaysia commends the initiative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and France, which have received overwhelming support of UN Malaysia fully supports the collective efforts of the international community towards the two-state solution and recognition of the State of Palestine. This collective global commitment and acceptance of the two-state solution and recognition of the State of Palestine should be taken as a key step forward to end Israel's colonization, illegal occupation, and politics of dispossession in the occupied Palestinian territory. It is in this context that Malaysia is going along with the draft resolution that seeks to endorse the New York Declaration. At the same time, Malaysia wishes to make its position clear on the New York Declaration. Any initiatives that seek to advance the two-state solution must not be driven only by narrowly defined or politically manipulated security concerns at the expense of the security of the Palestinians and their inalienable rights. including their right to self-determination, as well as their right to statehood. Palestinian statehood is not a reward, it is an inherent right. The realization of the two-state solution and the recognition of the State of Palestine should not be subject to any preconditions. And speaking of security, it should be enjoyed by all, certainly not just for one party or country. Malaysia has consistently called for the establishment of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine, based on the pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, and Palestinian statehood including its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the right of return of millions of Palestinian refugees, all of which are guaranteed under international law and therefore must be part and parcel of the solution for it to be viable. Madam President, our efforts must be genuine and not be undertaken for the sake of political expediency in response to domestic pressures. It must be based on full respect for international law and commitment to peace, stability, and justice for all. In the implementation of the NY Declaration, its shortcomings must also be fully addressed. There must be concrete actions and commitments from UN Member States with a time-bound action plan to protect and preserve the Palestinians' fundamental freedom and their right to statehood, respect the will and aspirations of the Palestinian people, Guarantee security for the Palestinians, including through the immediate withdrawal by Israel from the OPT, diplomatic recognition of Palestine, Palestine state, and socioeconomic development for the Palestinians. Fully support the mandate and role of the UN in providing aid and development assistance to Palestine, including the indispensable role of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, UNRWA. And ensure that Israel is held accountable for its persistent violations of international law, for the crimes of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity, and galvanize efforts to deliver justice, including in the form of reparations for Palestinians. This is Malaysia's expectation. Our vote in support of the resolution today reflects our solidarity with Palestine and the international community's commitment to realizing peace, stability, and prosperity in the Middle East region. For this declaration to be meaningful, a first step is for it to bring about an immediate end to the ongoing Israel's war and atrocities in Gaza. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Malaysia and give the floor now to Pakistan.

Thank you, Madam President. We should get used to saying Madam President in this hall and more often in the UN system. Pakistan has voted in favor of the resolution just adopted. In doing so, we reaffirm our longstanding and principled position on the question of Palestine based on the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and the establishment of an independent, viable, and contiguous State of Palestine on the basis of the pre-1967 borders with Al-Quds al-Sharif as its capital, in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the United Nations and international legitimacy. Pakistan has, without prejudice to its longstanding and principled position on the question of Palestine, endorsed the outcome document entitled New York Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution of the high-level international conference convened in New York from 28th to 30th of July. This endorsement reflects Pakistan's consistent commitment to the realization of a just and lasting peace. Pakistan strongly condemns the ongoing Israeli aggression in Gaza which has claimed the lives of over 64,000 people. The relentless destruction of homes, schools, hospitals, and other civilian infrastructure constitutes a grave violation of international humanitarian law and has inflicted untold suffering on the Palestinian people. Equally alarming are the continuing attempts by the occupier to expand illegal settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory, in flagrant defiance of international law and relevant Security Council resolutions. These actions not only exacerbate the humanitarian catastrophe but are also an attempt to undermine the prospects for a two-state solution. Israeli illegal actions and blatant violations of international law across the Middle East are endangering international peace and security in the region. It must not escape accountability. Pakistan calls for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire across Gaza and all occupied Palestinian territories, and full and unimpeded humanitarian access to the besieged and starved Palestinian population. Lasting peace requires a credible political horizon, one grounded in international law, And for this, the occupation must end, and for that is the actual root cause of instability in the Middle East. The convening of the International Conference on the Two-State Solution, co-chaired by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the French Republic, was a timely and necessary initiative to generate renewed momentum and to translate international commitments into concrete action. advancing the long overdue realization of the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and statehood. It must be followed by concrete and coordinated international action to finally achieve the long-quested peace and stability in the Middle East. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Pakistan and give the floor to Algeria, followed by Nicaragua and Namibia.

Thank you, Madam President. The delegation of my country has the honor to take the floor to explain its vote on the resolution just adopted. Algeria has voted in favor of this resolution as a collective urgent step. We hope it will open political horizon of hope for the Palestinian people, which is enduring one of the darkest moments in its history. And Syria has voted in its unwavering support to the Palestinian people and in affirmation of its support to the independent sovereign state of Palestine with Jerusalem as its capital. This resolution reflects the need for urgent action to save the Palestinian people by calling for immediate end of the aggression war on Gaza and to ensure the full humanitarian access for the besieged and starved Palestinian people. It also condemns the settlement. The New York declaration sends a clear message that genuine peace will be achieved only by the end of occupation and enabling the Palestinian people to exercise its inalienable right to self-determination. It stresses the right of Palestinian people to its territory. This right is not subject to statute of limitation. In this regard, we stress that our Vote in favor. That has no prejudice to the position of Algeria. It is not a full endorsement of New York Declaration or its annexes. We support the objective of the declaration, which is the establishment of the independent State of Palestine, the sovereign State of Palestine with Jerusalem as its capital. However, we reject any wording that gives false equivalence between the wanton aggression and people under occupation, or any wording that undermines the right of Palestinian people ensured in international instruments. We also stress that the stability in the Middle East cannot be achieved by a fabricated or a false peace. It has to be the result of real peace based on the end of occupation and restoring the rights to those who deserve it. And we reiterate that the key to stability in the Middle East is the end of Israeli occupation to Arab territories. In conclusion, Madam President, we reiterate that the commitment of international community to end the suffering of the Palestinian people is not measured by this adoption and endorsement of the declaration today, but by the implementation of what is included in it. We, Algeria, will work with all and engage with the international community to achieve this declaration, to give justice to the Palestinian people, and to lead to the establishment of the desired State of Palestine with Jerusalem as its capital. Thank you.

Shukran to the representative of Algeria. I give the floor now to Nicaragua, followed by Namibia.

Madam President, Nicaragua is taking the floor to explain its position after the vote. Our struggle for national sovereignty and our independence calls upon us to show solidarity with the national liberation and the struggles of oppressed people. The cause of the Palestinian people from exile and occupation is calling for a right that is fundamental as being able to breathe air, that is the right to freedoms and self-determination decided by the Palestinian people. Our position is the result of a shared history of resistance and victories. Nicaragua, who has always fought to break the chains imposed by oppression, interventionism, imperialism, and neocolonialism, sees in the eyes of Palestinian children the very same determination of our people when defending our national sovereignty. Madam President, Nicaragua's vote in favor reiterates our solidarity with Palestine as always. The demand of the peoples of the world is to put an end to Israel's genocide in Palestine, to immediately halt this war of extermination of the Palestinian people. The United Nations Charter is based on the principle of the sovereign equality of all of its members. Palestine must be able to fully exercise this right and must not be an exception. Nicaragua does not recognize any conditionality to the establishment of the State of Palestine. Therefore, we wish to express that our vote must not be interpreted as an endorsement of any action or measure that undermines the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people their freedom, their self-determination. Nicaragua will continue to walk alongside Palestine on the long path towards freedom, and we express our full and unshakable support to the people of Palestine, to their legitimate right to self-determination, to sovereignty, to their existence as an independent state within pre-1967 borders. with East Jerusalem as its capital. We reaffirm that the realization of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, including their right to return, is the only basis for just and lasting peace in the region. Thank you very much.

Muchas gracias to the representative of Nicaragua. As the last speaker, I have on the left Namibia. To whom I give the floor.

Thank you, Madam President. Namibia voted in favor of the resolution because of its desire to see an end to the genocide perpetrated against the Palestinian people, having gone through the same struggle for liberation itself. Namibia's support is not a diplomatic gesture, but a genuine recognition of the need for the Palestinian people to be allowed to determine their own destiny. Israel continues to act with impunity while the international community stands idle. Namibia continues to condemn the terrifying attacks by the Israeli apartheid regime against the civilians in Gaza and civilian infrastructure, the siege and deliberate starvation which have resulted in the starvation— in the devastation— in the devastating humanitarian catastrophe and protection crisis. There is no justification for breaches in great violation of international law, including international humanitarian law, and we stressed the need for accountability. Namibia calls on for the Israeli apartheid regime, the occupying power, to stop attacks and provocative acts against the Palestinian people and to abide to international humanitarian law. Namibia continues to support diplomatic efforts aimed at reaching a lasting peace— peaceful solution leading to a 2-state solution, along the Israelis' 1967 border with East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine. Namibia further reaffirms its resolute support for the legitimate struggle of the Palestinian people for their inalienable rights to self-determination and the establishment of an independent state with East Jerusalem as the capital in accordance with relevant UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions. We request the international community to call for the cessation of hostilities, protection of civilians, and continued to support the Palestinian people through the implementation of the relevant resolutions and all other agreements for the lasting peace in the Middle East. Finally, Madam Chair, Namibia wishes to be registered as a co-sponsor of this resolution. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Namibia. By that we have heard the last speaker in explanation of vote. After the vote, the exercise of the right of reply has been requested. May I remind members that statements in the exercise of the right of reply are also limited to 10 minutes for the first intervention and to 5 minutes for the second intervention and should be made by delegations from their seats. I call on the observer of the Observer State of Palestine to take the floor.

Thank you, Madam President. Allow me at the beginning, since this is my first statement in the General Assembly after you assumed your lofty position as President of the General Assembly, to express our congratulations, delight, and readiness to cooperate and to work with you fully on all issues related to the work of the General Assembly including the question of Palestine. We will pay you extensive visits to coordinate, to cooperate, and to facilitate the success of the work of the General Assembly on the issues of mutual importance and— to us. Allow me also to thank Saudi Arabia and France for the remarkable work that they did so far in convening all of the preparatory meetings, in preparing the documents, in adopting the outcome— the New York Declaration on the Implementation of the Two-State Solution in July, and also in today in this chamber. In this connection also, we are grateful to the 17 leaders who led countries and regional groups who led the deliberation of the 8 roundtables. And also, I want to thank the overwhelming majority of nations that voted for the endorsement of this declaration, endorsement of the plan for peace, endorsement for the details of that plan in the declaration and in the annex, and the yearning of almost everyone, the international community, to open the door for the option of peace. We heard a voice that this is not endorsing peace but endorsing something else. I trust that this overwhelming vote and endorsement by all those who voted in favor of this resolution is an illustration of saying, yes, we have a plan. Yes, we have a detailed roadmap for peace. And we invite the party that is still pushing the option of war and destruction and attempts to eliminate the Palestinian people and steal their land to listen to the sound of reason, to the sound of the logic of dealing with this issue peacefully, and for the overwhelming message that has resonated in this General Assembly today. For those who want peace, come and join us. For those who want to save lives, come and join us. For those who want to put an end to the war in Gaza, this aggression, come and join us. For those who want the release of the hostages and the prisoners, come and join us. For those who want to put an end to using the denial of food and to impose famine against the Palestinian people in Gaza, come and join us. For those who want to rebuild and to reconstruct the Gaza Strip, come and join us. For those who want to have an end to this illegal occupation, come and join us. And for those who are interested in the implementation of the historic advisory opinion of the ICJ, come and join us. For those who want to have a two-state solution, to live side by side in peace and security, and to open the doors for integration in the entire Middle East, and for allowing the Middle East to reach its potential in terms of development, innovation, science, and cooperation, come and join us. All these details and many more details are contained in the declaration that we've endorsed today. And I believe that, Madam President, since this is the first major issue under your presidency that you face, maybe this is a good omen. Come and join us, all those who are interested in peace, interested in dealing with putting an end to the tragedy and allowing the people in the Middle East, all of them, To save their lives, to save the lives of children, and to open the doors for peace and development and progress and hope. Thank you very much, Madam President.

I thank you. By that, the Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of Agenda Item 35. The meeting is adjourned. I wish you all a good day. Thank you.