Second Committee, 17th meeting - General Assembly, 80th session

Good morning. The 88th meeting of the Second Committee is called to order. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, I now invite the Committee to begin its consideration of agenda item 60, entitled permanent sovereignty of the Palestinian people in the occupied territory, including East Jerusalem, and of the Arab population in the occupied Syrian Golan over their natural resources. The documentation under the agenda item is listed in today's journal. I now invite Mr. Youssef Chaitani, Chief of Economic Affairs Section of the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, to introduce via video link the report of the Secretary-General, contained in document A/79/975. I recall that the announced time limit for one introduction is six minutes. Mr. Chaitani, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Distinguished delegates, I'm honored to present the report on the economic and social repercussions of the Israeli occupation on the living conditions of the Palestinian people in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and of the Arab population in the occupied Syrian Golan. On behalf of ESCWA, I extend our sincere gratitude to all colleagues across the United Nations system whose contributions were vital in preparing this report. The report was finalized as hostilities resumed in Gaza following the end of the ceasefire on 18 March 2025, and with worsening conditions in the West Bank. Mr. Chairman, distinguished delegates, since 7 October 2023, the human toll has been devastating. In Gaza, more than 50,000 Palestinians, most of them women and children, have been killed. Over 113,000 have been injured. Israeli sources report more than 1,700 Israelis and foreign nationals killed. And of the 251 hostages, 59 remained in captivity. The humanitarian community has also paid a heavy price. At least 407 aid workers, including 284 UN staff, have lost their lives. In the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, 469 Palestinians, among them 76 children, were killed. Israeli sources report 42 deaths, including three children and 18 women, from Palestinian attacks. Children are bearing the heaviest burden in this conflict. The United Nations has verified nearly 8,000 grave violations against more than 4,200 Palestinian children, killings, injuries. forced recruitment, and denial of aid. Today, Gaza records the highest per capita rate of child amputees in the world. More than 4,500 amputees, including 810 children, are left without prosthetics or rehabilitation. The psychological toll is immense. Nearly every child in Gaza, 1.2 million, requires mental health and psychosocial support. More than 17,000 children have been separated from their families. Since November 2023, thousands of Palestinians, men, boys, women, and girls, have been detained in Gaza, many without charge or trial. Among them are doctors, journalists, and human rights defenders. And the reports are deeply disturbing. torture, abuse, inhumane treatment, including waterboarding, sexual violence, and attacks by dogs. At least 53 detainees have died in Israeli custody since October 2023. Mr. Chairman, distinguished delegates, according to UNDP, human development in Gaza has been pushed back by nearly 70 years. In the West Bank, it has been set back by 16 years. In Gaza today, Poverty stands at nearly 100%. The economy has contracted by 86%. Across the West Bank and Gaza, GDP fell by 28% in 2024, with losses exceeding $5 billion. Unemployment has reached a record high, 35% in the West Bank, 80% in Gaza, and 51% overall. Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority faces a $2 billion financing gap, deepened by Israel's continued withholding of clearance revenues. Mr. Chairman, distinguished delegates, in the occupied Syrian Golan, settlement expansion continues. 29,000 Israeli settlers now control 95% of the land across 35 illegal settlements. Only five Syrian villages remain, home to 28,000 residents who endure curfews, land confiscation, and harsh restrictions on movement and development. Mr. Chairman, distinguished delegates, the Secretary-General has called for the occupation to end as rapidly as possible. He reiterated the United Nations' commitment to supporting Palestinians and Israelis in ending the occupation and resolving the conflict in line with international law relevant United Nations resolutions and bilateral agreements in pursuit of the vision of two states, Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, viable and sovereign Palestinian state, of which Gaza is an integral part, living side by side in peace and security, within secure and recognized borders, on the basis of the pre-1967 lines, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

I thank the Chair for his statement. In accordance with the practice of the Main Committee of the General Assembly, I now invite delegations to make comments or pose questions to Mr. Chaitani on the report just introduced. The floor is now open. Delegates are invited to indicate their wish to speak. I now give the floor to the representative of the State of Palestine.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, for giving me the floor. My delegation has no questions at this time, but we wish to express our sincere appreciation to ESCWA for their valuable inputs into the SG's report before us today and for their comprehensive presentation. We also recognize their vital work in addressing the economic and social dimensions of the grave injustices endured by the Palestinian people. Mr. Chair, the SG report, as we just heard, provides a comprehensive and sobering reality, backed by facts and figures, of the severe economic and social repercussions of Israel's protracted settler colonial occupation of Palestine, including East Jerusalem. and the staggering scale and scope of its destruction and devastation in Gaza, profoundly affecting every aspect of Palestinian life. All of the violations documented are being perpetrated by Israel in blatant disregard of the UN Charter and grave breach of international law. To conclude, Mr. Chair, we reaffirm, as emphasized in the 2024 ICJ advisory opinion and the SG report, that this illegal occupation must end as rapidly as possible. Therefore, immediate, serious, and concrete measures are urgently needed in accordance with international law and relevant UN resolutions to ensure justice and uphold international legitimacy. We also wish to assure ESCWA of the State of Palestine's full support and cooperation. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the State of Palestine. I see no more requests for the floor. I thank the Chair of the Economic Affairs Section of ESCWA, as well as the delegation participating in the question and comments time. I now invite the Committee to begin its general discussion on agenda item 60. Before we proceed, I would like to remind delegations of the agreed time limits for statements in the general discussion for five minutes for delegations speaking on behalf of group of states, three minutes for individual member states, and three minutes for intergovernmental organizations and the United Nations system. In order to assist the speakers in time management, a speech timer is visible at the top of the screen, and I look forward to the cooperation of all speakers. Having said that, I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the State of Palestine.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. For decades, the Palestinian people have endured immense suffering as Israel continues with its collective punishment of our people, systematically destroying their society, denying their inalienable rights, and aiming at erasing their presence and history while pursuing colonization and annexation. In Gaza, over 2 million Palestinians have been besieged, bombed, and displaced over and over again. But for the last two years, they have been deprived of all essentials for life, including food, water, and medicine. Over 90% of homes, vital civilian infrastructure, and livelihoods have been destroyed, pushing unemployment and poverty to soaring levels. It is deplorable that for the first time in our history, our people face a man-made famine due to Israel's weaponization of the desperately needed humanitarian aid. In the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, Israel persists with its annexation and ethnic cleansing through its relentless expansion of its illegal settlements, land confiscation, home demolitions, and destruction of Palestinian property. Mr. Chair, in Palestine, this month marks the beginning of the annual olive harvest season, a period of cultural, economic, and social significance. Yet, Palestinians continue to face repeated Israeli assaults and severe military restrictions, preventing access to their lands and resources, thus further strangling the Palestinian economy. Nevertheless, While we cautiously welcome the current ceasefire agreement, we hope it will mark a genuine step toward a political process leading to the implementation of the two-state solution, the only path that can make peace, stability, and regional integration a reality. The State of Palestine remains firmly committed to international law and to a just and lasting peace. We therefore call again on the international community to act urgently and seriously to ensure justice and the rights of the Palestinian people and to truly work toward a future built on freedom, dignity, and stability for all. The time for decisive action is now to prevent the only viable solution from slipping away. Finally, the State of Palestine aligns itself with the statements of the G77 in China and the Arab Group. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of State of Palestine. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iraq on behalf of G77 and China. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of G77 and China. This is an abridged statement, and the longer version will be delivered to the Secretariat. The group would like to express its appreciation to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, ESCWA, for preparing the Secretary-General's report, as well as for their comprehensive presentation today. Mr. Chair, the group welcomes the Secretary-General's report, which underscores The protracted military occupation of the Palestinian territory and the Syrian Golan continues to profoundly impact all aspects of life for both populations. Gaza is the most shocking example of the Israeli massive violation of the right of the Palestinian people to sovereignty over their natural resources. which the occupation continues to exploit through the entirety of the occupied Palestinian territory, in breach of international law, the relevant UN resolutions, and the ICJ advisory opinion. The group underscores the urgent need for an immediate halt to Israeli violations, including its military attacks and blockade on the Gaza Strip, and for the protection of the Palestinian civilian population. in accordance with international humanitarian law, while ensuring their recovery and well-being through immediate, unhindered humanitarian access through UNRWA. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Iraq on behalf of G77 and China. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kuwait on behalf of Cooperation Council for the Arab state of the Gulf. You have the floor, Qais.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I have the honor to deliver the statement on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council. We extend our sincere thanks to the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia for preparing and comprehensively presenting the Secretary-General's report and for the efforts made in monitoring and documenting the situation in the occupied Arab Mr. Chair, the GCC states welcome the signing of the Gaza agreement at the Sharm el-Sheikh Peace Summit, which was based on the plan put forward by His Excellency President Donald Trump, President of the United States of America. the friendly United States of America. It was concluded thanks to the commendable efforts of our brethren in the State of Qatar, the Arab Republic of Egypt, and the friendly Republic of Turkey. In this regard, the GCC states stressed the importance of full commitment to the ceasefire, the implementation of all the provisions of the agreement, and the facilitation of the entry of urgent humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip in order to end the famine and achieve stability. The GCC states also look forward to the issuance of the advisory opinion by the ICJ on Israel's obligation, i.e. the obligations of the occupying power, in the occupied Palestinian territory next Wednesday October 22nd 2025 the advisory opinion will address the legal responsibilities of Israel in relation to the United Nations other International organizations and third states in and relation to the occupied Palestinian territory including the West Bank East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip this opinion constitutes an important legal reference that consolidates the principles of international justice and accountability and strengthens efforts to end the occupation and the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people. In this context, the states of the Council affirm that the continuation of the Israeli occupation and its violations not only threaten regional security, but also undermine the foundations of the international order based on the respect for law, justice, and human rights. it weakens the chances of achieving sustainable development and peace in our region. Mr. Chair, the states of the Council express their grave concern over the painful facts contained in the Secretary-General's report, which reveal the depths of the human suffering of the Palestinian people and the Syrian population in the occupied Arab Syrian Golan as a result of Israel's ongoing policies of oppression, expansion, and settlement. The GCC states affirm that the humanitarian situation in the occupied Palestinian territory, in particular in the besieged Gaza Strip, have deteriorated in an unprecedented way. As a result, of the aggression of Israel, the occupying power, over the past two years. It led to widespread destruction of infrastructure, civilian casualties, and high rates of poverty and unemployment. It also led to the exacerbation of food insecurity and the complete collapse of health, education, and economic services. This suffering has also spilled over into the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, where Palestinians are facing policies of discrimination, home demolitions, land and restrictions on movement, as well as escalating settler attacks and illegal settlement expansion that is illegal. They're also facing collective punishments. The GCC states expressed their deep concern over the impact of the practices of the occupying power on the education sector. Systematic and repeated destruction in Gaza has deprived high numbers of children of their right to education. They're now left behind. We condemn the continuation by Israel, the occupying power, the plundering and depletion of natural resources in the occupied Syrian Arab Golan through the confiscation of land and water. Land is being used for illegal settlement construction and economic projects that are illegitimate, including the wind turbine project, which has caused serious environmental and health damage to the Syrian communities. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, the GCC states reiterate their firm position in support of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, most notably the right to self-determination and the right to establish their independent states along the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital. We also call upon the international community to assume its legal and moral responsibilities to end the occupation, lift the siege on the Gaza Strip, according to international humanitarian law and international human rights law. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Kuwait on behalf of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Oman on behalf of the Arab Group.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. It is my honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Arab Group, which aligns with the statement made by the Republic of Iraq on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. I also extend our thanks to Asqa for preparing the Secretary-General's report and presenting it in a comprehensive manner. Mr. Chair, the Arab Group expresses deep concern of the facts and findings presented in the SG's report, which reveal aspects of the suffering endured by the Palestinian people and the population in the occupied Syrian Golan due to the Israeli policies and practices in the occupied Arab territories. The report highlights the humanitarian, economic and social conditions in the occupied Palestinian territory, this includes East Jerusalem, especially the besieged Gaza Strip. It has witnessed severe deterioration due to the ongoing Israeli policies and practices and the genocidal aggression carried out by Israel, the occupying power, against the Palestinian people in the besieged Gaza Strip over the past two years. This has resulted in massive human and economic losses, rising poverty and unemployment rates, and worsening food insecurity, reaching famine levels. It has also led to the collapse of health and education services and unprecedented economic and financial hardship due to the destruction of the thousands of schools, hospitals, electricity and water networks in Palestine. This created an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. It led to a complete paralysis of essential services and a direct threat to civilian lives. It is a blatant violation of all international laws and norms. This tragic situation is not limited to Gaza alone, but extends to the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Residents in the West Bank face systematic policies of discrimination, land confiscation, home demolitions, and restrictions on freedom of movement due to checkpoints and iron gates that fragment the West Bank and suffocate daily life of Palestinians. This comes in addition to the economic and social marginalization and financial blockade that have reached unprecedented levels, threatening vital services across the occupied Palestinian territory. This is compounded by the accelerating illegal settlement expansion, increasing settler violence, and the imposition of collective punishment affecting all aspects of the life in the occupied Palestinian territories. The Arab Group also affirms that the condemns the continued Israeli exploitation of natural resources in the occupied Syrian Golan, including the confiscation and use of agricultural lands and water resources for illegal settlements in clear violation of the rights of the Arab Syrian population and international humanitarian law norms and rules. The group expresses concern over a settlement and economic projects implemented by the occupying authorities, most notably the wind turbine project on agricultural lands. This has led to the seizure of vast areas of land, depriving Syrian farmers of their livelihoods. It also caused serious environmental and health damage to local communities. The group also welcomes the signing of the Gaza agreement document at the Sharm el-Sheikh Peace Summit. We commend the decisive role of the US President to reach this agreement, his commitment to ending the war and advance the peace process in the region. We also appreciate the efforts of the Arab Republic of Egypt, the State of Qatar, those two brotherly countries, and the friendly Republic of Turkey. We emphasize the need to adhere to the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. implement its provisions fully, end the war, and address the catastrophic consequences of the aggression. We must also ensure the immediate and sufficient entry of humanitarian aid to end the famine. We stress the need to halt escalation, violence, and Israeli violations in the West Bank and the Holy Sites in Jerusalem, which is a breach of the historical status quo of the sanctities in Jerusalem. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, the Arab Group affirms that the time has come to end the Israeli occupation and take real and effective steps towards implementing the two-state solution. This is the only realistic path to achieving just peace in the region. We call for the lifting of the deadly blockade on Gaza, ending genocide, forced displacement, and ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people. We must halt all violations committed by the occupying power. This is an urgent priority and a moral and legal duty upon the international community. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Oman on behalf of the Arab Group. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on behalf of a group of friends in defense of the Charter of the United Nations. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Good morning. Venezuela has the honor to take the floor on behalf of a group of friends in defense of the Charter of the Chair, we come together today with a heavy sense of responsibility. This debate is not only about legal principles or abstract rights. It is about people. It is about families torn apart, children deprived of food, education and shelter. It is about entire communities being denied the right to live in dignity on their own land. for far too many decades now. The Secretary-General's report that we have before us, as in document A/79/975, is clear. In Gaza and throughout the occupied Palestinian territory, the devastation is staggering. Homes, schools, and hospitals lie in ruins. Water and farmland and water infrastructure have been deliberately destroyed, as well as other vital infrastructure. Hunger and disease are being used as weapons of war. For its part, in the occupied Syrian Golan, Arab communities continue to face discrimination, forced displacement, and the theft of their resources. These are not natural disasters. They are a direct result of a truly man-made crisis is rooted in decades of illegal occupation and systematic policies designed to deny two peoples, the Palestinian people and the Arab population in the Syrian Golan, their most basic right, the right to live freely on their land, to use their resources and to build a future in peace. Chair, A year ago, the situation on the ground was rather tragic. Today, the reality is even more dire. Every day that the impunity continues, more lives are lost and more hope is extinguished. And hence, we say with one voice, this must end, and it must end now, for the good of both humanity and for the preservation and the very existence of this organization. We call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and in all areas under attack. We call for the withdrawal of all occupying forces from Arab lands, including East Jerusalem, Gaza, and the Syrian Golan. We demand safe and unhindered humanitarian access, the full restoration of UNRWA's vital role, and the release of all hostages and detainees. We also stress accountability. crimes cannot go unpunished. International law must be upheld. It cannot be ignored. Ending the cycle of impunity is the only way to break the cycle of violence and at the same time ensure that all those who today remain under illegal occupation can actually enjoy that permanent sovereignty that we are talking about over their natural resources. Chair, the Group of Friends firmly supports the realisation of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine, based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in line with the relevant resolutions of the United Nations and the two-state solution. Palestine must also, without further delay, take its rightful place as a full member of the United Nations. we urge all states to refrain from being complicit with the illegal, with the unlawful occupation, whether through trade, military support, or political cover. Upholding the Charter of the United Nations means standing against injustice. especially under such brutal circumstances that so far have claimed the lives of over 66,000 innocent Palestinian civilians in Gaza, including women and children. Chair, this organization was created out of the ruins of war, with the aim of protecting succeeding generations from the scourge of war and conflict, and for safeguarding the dignity and equality of all peoples. The Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations stands united in demanding an end to this protracted tragedy. We demand the restoration of rights and the realisation of a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in the Middle East. I thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on behalf of Group of Friends in Defence of the United Nations Charter. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of

Egypt thank you Mr chair my delegation alied itself with the statement by Iraq on behalf of the g77 and China and the sultanate of Aman on behalf of the Arab group we would like to to stress the following points we express our concern over the secretary General's report on the continued Israeli violations in the occupied Palestinian territories manifested in the attack on the Gaza Strip. It left an unprecedented humanitarian crisis. It led to the killing of tens of thousands and the displacement of millions. It destroyed schools, infrastructure, hospitals, and used starvation as a tactic of war in grave violation of international law. We express our grave concern over the deterioration of the situation in the West Bank including East Jerusalem. As a result of continued illegal settlement activities and the confiscation of land, demolition of homes, and restrictions imposed on movement of persons and commodities, settler violence is exacerbating against Palestinian civilians. Egypt stresses that these practices are a violation of the principle of the permanent sovereignty of the Palestinian people over its national resources. It's being deprived of the necessities of development and life. We must act swiftly to stop the occupation and ensure the entry of urgent humanitarian aid without obstacles. We must stress the vital role of UNRWA as the lifeline for millions of Palestinians. stress that we will continue to make all efforts in cooperation with international and Regional actors to implement the ceasefire agreement that was concluded at the shamish summit and at all stages it is a pillar to stop the Bloodshed and end the suffering and to create an environment conducive for achieving peace while ensuring the delivery of humanitarian Aid without obstacles we're preparing to host the conference for deconstruction of Gaza next month we express our concern over continued Israeli the occupation and its depletion of resources in the occupied Syrian colon that includes the confiscation of land and water to build illegal settlements this harms livelihoods of farmers and environment the environment these practices are flagrant violations of international law international humanitarian law and we stress the need for the occupation to end as a sine qua non for achieving peace in the region we express our concern over Israel's continued expansion in the Syrian territories. In conclusion, we believe that the end of occupation is a legal and moral responsibility of the international community. The continuation of the situation undermines the legitimacy of the international system. As we have a historical responsibility towards the Palestinian question, Egypt will make all efforts to ensure just and lasting peace and the granting of Palestinians of their rights. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

The distinguished representative of Egypt. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba.

Thank you very much, Chair. Cuba aligns itself with the statements delivered by Iraq on behalf of the G77 and China, and by Venezuela on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter. Cuba is grateful to the Secretary-General for its report, where the persistence of practices and policies by Israel that are a violation of human rights and international human rights law have been documented. The very damaging consequences for the Palestinian people and for those in the Syrian Golan are extremely damaging because they do not have control over their own natural resources. The Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip has for years been subjected by Israel, the occupying power, to brutal and unprecedented attacks. The responsibility for this genocide falls squarely on the shoulders of Israel, but also on the United States and the political, financial, military, and unconditional diplomatic support that is permanent and uninterrupted, providing impunity for the most horrendous atrocities. Following the conclusion of the Sharm el-Sheikh Summit, the government of the United States has called for other actions. We know that this peace can only be lasting if there is an independent and sovereign Palestinian state in the pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, and that guarantees a right of return for refugees. While the government of the United States, if it truly wants to show a commitment to a lasting solution to the conflict, they should lift their resistance to welcoming Palestine as a member state. It should recognize an independent state of Palestine and stop using anti-democratic vetoes in the Security Council to truly promote peace in the Middle East. It's also urgent for solidarity against Iran, Lebanon, Syria, and Qatar that have also been attacked by Israel in total impunity. We support the call for the complete and unconditional withdrawal of Israel from the Syrian Golan and from all of the Arab occupied land. Cuba calls for all necessary decisions in bringing Israel to an end to the occupation and the aggressive policies and colonizing practices, as well as fulfillment of the relevant resolutions approved by the Security Council. For as long as injustice continues in Palestine, Cuba will denounce and continue to fight for justice. I thank you.

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

Chair, we align ourselves with the statement made by the Group of Friends in Defence of the UN Charter, and in our national capacity, we would like to share the following. The situation in the Middle East, including in the context of Israel and Palestine, is changing extremely quickly. In these circumstances, it is particularly important to remain committed to international law, including respecting the right of peoples over their natural resources. We have always advocated for peace and for justice in the region, and we support any sincere efforts focused on building lasting peace and good neighbourly coexistence between the countries. In this context, we trust that the recent peace agreements reached will reduce tensions and move towards resolving accrued problems, including The discussion we are discussing today, the permanent sovereignty of the Palestinian people over occupied Palestinian territories and the Arab population of the occupied Syrian Golan. The theme, the topic of access to natural resources, whether they be land, water, agricultural, energy resources, deserves close attention to be paid to it because it is key for sustainable development and ensuring a dignified life for people. The situation is being worsened by ongoing settlement activities by Israel, confiscation of Palestinian land and property, and deliberate destruction of critical infrastructure. These actions have created long-term and intractable ramifications. They're seriously undermining the prospects for a two-state solution a solution that seeks to create an independent Palestinian state within 1967 borders and with East Jerusalem as its capital. We must also express our extreme concern regarding the humanitarian catastrophe in the Gaza Strip and in the West Bank. We trust that the agreements reached in Cairo will be complied with to the full and indiscriminate strikes on civilians and civilian infrastructure will cease and humanitarian access will be ensured to the full in line with OCHA's proposed 60-day response plan. Once again, we underscore that reopening humanitarian access routes, the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers must remain an absolute priority. We are convinced that just and lasting peace in the Middle East is not possible without the implementation of decisions from the Security Council and the UN General Assembly, including on the recognition of the permanent sovereignty of peoples over their natural resources. Thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Mr. Chair, my delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by Iraq on behalf of Group of 77 and China and Venezuela on behalf of Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations, and would like to add the following points in our national capacity. We thank ESCO for its report on the situation in the occupied Palestinian territory and the occupied Syrian Golan. Yet, the report cannot fully convey the scale of devastation and human suffering that has unfolded till March 2025, as atrocities against the Palestinian people continue daily. The situation in Gaza has reached a catastrophic and unprecedented level. According to ESCWA, at least 2.3 million people are enduring unimaginable suffering, with 1.7 million displaced, over three-quarters of the people. Poverty has more than doubled, and 68,000 civilians, mostly women and children, have been killed since March 2025. Over 90% of Gaza's water systems are nonfunctional, and 1 million people face family-level food insecurity, making Gaza one of the worst humanitarian crises in modern history. More than 80% of housing and infrastructure has been destroyed, leaving entire communities uninhabitable. These figures go beyond numbers. They represent the collapse of nearly all sustainable development goals in the occupied territory. Poverty eradication, health, clean water, economic growth, and sustainable communities have all become unattainable under occupation. Mr. Chair, the Israeli occupying regime continues to violate international law and the United Nations Charter, pursuing systematic policies to dispose of the Palestinian and Syrian Arab populations of their land and natural resources. The report describes the destruction in Gaza as unprecedented and horrifying, and the deliberate targeting of civilian facilities, UN premises, and places of worship has devastated every aspect of life. The Palestinian people remains unite in a line of a right to self-determination and their permanent sovereignty over their land and natural resources. Without sovereignty and freedom, there can be no justice, peace, or development, for no country can achieve progress while living under occupation. We reaffirm that the occupying Syrian Golan remains as an integral part of the Syrian Arab Republic and reject all measures by the occupying power to alter its legal of Democratic societies, the world must not remain silent in the face of unfolding atrocities before our eyes, silence in the face of injustice is complicity. Only through justice, accountability, and end of occupation can there be a lasting peace and sustainable development in the region, and only by restoring the sovereignty of the Palestinian people over their land and resources can the promise of the sustainable development goals be realized. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Islamic Republic of Iran. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nicaragua.

Thank you very much, Chair. Nicaragua reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the just cause of the Palestinian people. They have been resisting with dignity against decades of occupation, pillaging, and aggression. We reiterate the permanent sovereignty of the Palestinian people over their own natural resources is an inalienable right protected by international law and by the Charter of the United Nations. It is thus unacceptable that in the 21st century, while we in this committee are debating sustainable development, an entire people has been a victim of a genocide, something never before seen and witnessed by all of humanity in real time with unquestionable images of the magnitude of this genocide. Furthermore, being deprived of their land, their water, their energy and all basic means of subsistence, Israel, the occupying power, continues with its policies of terror with a permanent cycle of destruction, reconstruction, followed by destruction again, destroying infrastructure, confiscating agricultural land, destroying sources of water and blocking access to basic goods. This policy of systematic oppression represents a violation of international law and a crime against the right to development of the Palestinian people. Nicaragua calls out the environmental and human devastation caused by the Israeli occupation as it is impeding the Palestinian population from achieving any of the SDGs, including the eradication of poverty and hunger. Nicaragua calls for an immediate end to the occupation and to all of the illegal measures that have been imposed on the Palestinian people. We call for guarantees as regards the restitution of the sovereign rights of Palestine over its natural resources and to put an end to Israel's impunity. Chair, justice for Palestine is a moral and political debt held by the United Nations. The peoples of the world, humanity as a whole, are demanding justice and a free Palestine now. Nicaragua, loyal to its history of dignity and resistance, will continue to support the Palestinian people in their legitimate struggle for liberty, sovereignty, and for life. I thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Nicaragua. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.

Mr. Chairman, China associates itself with the statement by Iraq on behalf of G77 and China, and by Venezuela on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the UN Charter. For over 70 years, the Palestinian-Israeli situation has been trapped in recurring volatility and wars. The latest conflict in Gaza has caused unprecedented humanitarian disasters, seriously affecting international and regional peace and stability and endangering world economic outlook. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the UN and the 10th anniversary of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. At this crucial juncture of multilateralism and international development cooperation, we cannot forget the war-torn Palestinian people and cannot turn a blind eye to the denial of their fundamental rights to survival and development. China welcomes all efforts to restore peace and save lives, and stresses that all parties should work together to achieve a genuine, comprehensive, and lasting ceasefire, effectively alleviate the humanitarian crisis, and restore regional stability. The international consensus on Palestine governed by Palestinians must be implemented, Any post-war arrangement for governance and reconstruction must be based on respecting the will of the Palestinian people and safeguarding their legitimate national rights. The natural resources of all Palestinian territories belong to the Palestinian people and should serve their needs for survival and development. Equally important is that the international community must be firmly determined to revitalize the two-state solution. Only by establishing an independent state of Palestine and realizing their legitimate national rights can it be possible to eliminate the root causes of historical injustice and violence and to achieve long-term peaceful coexistence between Palestine and Israel. Golan is an internationally recognized territory of Syria. Syria's sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity must be fully respected. China supports Syria's restoration in line with the relevant UN resolutions of its sovereignty over Golan, including its national sovereignty over the natural resources there. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

I thank the distinguished representative of China. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa.

Chairperson, South Africa aligns itself with the statement delivered by Uganda on behalf of the G77 and China, and would like to add the following in its national capacity. As expected, the Secretary-General's report paints a big picture of the economic and social repercussions of Israel's occupation of Palestine and the Syrian Golan. The events of 7 October 2023 and subsequent brazen acts of genocide and destruction of civilian infrastructure, including schools, and hospitals by Israel further complicated matters, which resulted in dire living conditions for a significant number of civilians. It is against this background that South Africa welcomes the ceasefire and first phase of the Gaza peace plan signed four days ago in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, to provide the people of Gaza with much-needed reprieve from this two-year onslaught by Israel. We welcome the release of hostages and political prisoners, commend the role played by the guarantor states and call for the immediate and hindered entry of much needed humanitarian aid into the besieged Gaza Strip. South Africa reiterates its call for a permanent and unconditional end to Israel's illegal occupation of Palestine and the realization of the rights to self-determination of the Palestinian people. To this end, it is South Africa's hope that the peace plan and attendant confidence-building measures will contribute towards the establishment of an independent, democratic, contiguous, viable and sovereign Palestinian state, with East Jerusalem as its capital. South Africa welcomes the formal recognition of Palestine as a state by France, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Andorra and Belgium during the recently convened high-level week of the eightieth session of the UN General Assembly. These countries joined the UK, Canada, Australia and Portugal, who formally recognized the Palestinian state in early September this year. While 157 countries recognize the state of Palestine, and the global community has come together to reaffirm the fundamental importance of a two-state solution, the Israeli government has brazenly denied the possibility of Palestinian statehood. South Africa is in full support of the outcomes of the International Conference on the Two-State Solution held in July this year and its subsequent General Assembly resolution adopted at the Leaders' Meeting on 22 September 2025. Now more than ever before, the international community must amplify calls for a just and lasting peace between Israel and Palestine, in keeping with the values of shared humanity and respect for international law. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of South Africa. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Oman.

Mr. President, Mr. Chair, your excellencies, allow us at the outset to express our appreciation of your able leadership of the Second Committee. We are deeply thankful to Dr. Rula Dajti, the Executive Secretary of ESCWA, and her team for preparing and presenting the report. We align ourselves with the statement delivered by Kuwait on behalf of GCC member states, the statement delivered by Oman on behalf of the Arab Group, and the statement delivered by Iraq on behalf of the G77 and China. We reaffirm our unwavering position in support of the Palestinian question, renew our solidarity with the Palestinian people in their legitimate endeavor to establish their independent, sovereign state on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in line with international resolutions and the principles of international law. We deeply regret the findings of the Esqueas report regarding the Israeli ongoing violations in the occupied Palestinian territories and the Syrian Golan, depriving people, occupied people, of their natural resources, polluting the environment, destroying the infrastructure, and stunting development in these areas. These violations led to an increase in the unemployment rates, where the report shows that unemployment reached 35% in the West Bank and 80% in Gaza, and increased the number of internally displaced people to 1.9 million. persons, approximately 90% of the total population. This was further exacerbated by Israel's ban on UNRWA to fulfill its main task and the unjustified obstructing of humanitarian aid to civilians, which is a violation of international law or collective punishment. In this context, we reiterate that comprehensive just peace in the Middle East can only be achieved by ending the Israeli occupation and the establishment of the independent viable Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital we support peace and stability in the Middle East and we reiterated that permanent peace require a genuine commitment and compliance with the principles of the UN Charter international law international humanitarian law to guarantee the legitimate rights of all parties thank you Mr. President.

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

Thank you, Mr. Chair, Your Excellencies. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia associates itself to the statements issued by both the G77 and China, the Arab Group, and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Mr. Chair. We affirm that the continued Israeli occupation and its exploitation of natural resources in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem and in the occupied Syrian Golan, constitutes a blatant violation of international law and relevant UN resolutions. It undermines the foundations of sustainable development and social justice as outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Illegal policies and practices have led to the systematic destruction of Palestinian infrastructure, the confiscation of agricultural lands and water resources, and the deprivation of the Palestinian people from their resources and means of livelihood. This has resulted in rising poverty and unemployment rates and deteriorating living conditions in the occupied Palestinian territory, especially in the besieged Gaza Strip. Mr. Chair, we reaffirm the inalienable right of the Palestinian people and the Arab population in the occupied Syrian Golan to permanent sovereignty over their natural resources. This includes land, water, and energy. We call upon the international community to ensure respect for this right and to hold the occupying power accountable its violations of international humanitarian law. This includes the systematic looting and unlawful exploitation of resources. We also emphasize that the economic empowerment of the Palestinian people and the reconstruction of their institutions and infrastructure is part and parcel for achieving development and human dignity. It cannot be separated from the right to self-determination and sovereignty over national resources. In this context, we refer to the outcomes of recent international efforts to achieve just and lasting peace, including the New York Declaration issued by the High-Level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Palestinian Cause and the Realization of the Two-State Solution, presided over by Saudi Arabia and the French Republic. It underscored the need to end the occupation, lift the blockade, ensure the unity of Palestinian territories, and enable the Palestinian people to exercise full sovereignty over their land and natural resources. This is consistent with the principle of interdependence between sustainable peace and sustainable development. We express our hope that the outcome of the Sharm el-Sheikh Peace Summit, hosted by the Arab Republic of Egypt, will contribute to alleviating the humanitarian suffering of the Palestinian people, ensuring reconstruction, and restoring security and stability in the region, and the right to the rightful owners. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much, Chair. Colombia aligns itself with the statement delivered by Iraq on behalf of the G77 and China and is grateful for the report of the Secretary General. Its findings are clear. The policies of the occupying power are a systematic violation of international humanitarian law, IHL, international human rights law, IHR, and the relevant resolutions of the United Nations. This is this was also confirmed by the International Court of Justice in its advisory opinion of July 2024 when it declared that Israel's presence in the occupied Palestinian territory is illegal, and it established that the obligations that have been violated include erga omnes obligations. The genocide in the Gaza Strip has left more than 70,000 dead and more than 160,000 injured in two years. 83% of the buildings in the city of Gaza and 78% of all structures in the Strip have been either destroyed or damaged. more than 82% of the territory is under Israeli military control. The food and economic crisis is extreme. In the West Bank, the systematic violence of settlers that is incited, backed and supported by the political and Israeli Israeli military and political presence there continues. It is accompanied by severe restrictions on movement and an unprecedented economic crisis. More than 10,000 Palestinians have been displaced since October 2023 due to demolitions, attacks, and access restrictions. Chair, Colombia reaffirms its full solidarity with the Palestinian people. We invite all states who are committed to the Charter of the United Nations to adopt measures such as those agreed by the Hague Group. This includes restrictions on military transfers and reviewing public tenders that are actually financing the occupation. While we welcome the recent agreement as a vehicle and a step forward to bring an end to the genocide, we reiterate our support for the state of Palestine and we advocate for a transformation of these resolution into concrete actions. Effective fulfillment of international law is not optional. An end to the occupation and progress towards a two-state solution is an indispensable condition for achieving a just, lasting, and sustainable peace. Colombia reaffirms its commitment to the quest for accountability for the horrendous crimes against humanity that have been committed and also for guarantees of non-recurrence of this I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Colombia. I now give the floor to the charge d'affaires of Nigeria.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, at the outset, Nigeria aligns itself with the statement delivered by Iraq on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. Nigeria, with a foreign policy explicitly directed towards ending racial discrimination in Africa, was a vocal critic of apartheid. It is on this basis that Nigeria has always advocated for the two-state solution as the only viable solution to the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian crisis. We therefore acknowledge the efforts of the United States, culminating in the ceasefire and the return of hostages, as well as the important roles of Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey in facilitating the dialogue and convening the Gaza Peace Summit. It is our sincere hope that these engagements will continue in good faith and lead to a constructive process rooted in dialogue, mutual respect, and the shared pursuit of peaceful existence. As we reflect on the pressing challenges in Gaza, it is imperative to address the fundamental issues that remain central to any just, lasting, and sustainable solution and resolution to the crisis. First, the people of Palestine must be afforded genuine opportunities for livelihood, economic empowerment, and inclusive participation in the political, social, and economic life of their society. Second, A just and durable resolution to this crisis must be anchored in international law so that the people of the occupied Palestinian territory, including Gaza and the West Bank, do not continue to endure undue hardship under prolonged occupation. Third, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains catastrophic. As such, my delegation calls for the immediate, unimpeded, and sustained delivery of humanitarian assistance in full compliance with international humanitarian law. While we acknowledge the urgent need for the reconstruction of Gaza, any such proposal must not come at the expense of the Palestinians' inalienable rights to life, dignity, and territorial sovereignty. We also wish to underscore that the rehabilitation of critical infrastructures, including water systems, healthcare, electricity, schools, and housing, is essential. 5. The natural resources of Palestine, including land, water, and coastal assets, must be protected from unlawful exploitation, annexation, and degradation. Mr. Chair, peace in the Middle East is not only urgent, but indispensable to regional and global stability. A just lasting solution can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue, sustained diplomacy, and full respect for the rights and aspirations of all peoples, Palestinians and Israelis alike. However, while we sincerely appreciate the collective efforts of mediator the United Nations must continue to play a central role in supporting these efforts. Let us rise to the urgency of these collective duties. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the Secretary of Nigeria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Chile.

Chair, Chile aligns with the statement delivered by Iraq on behalf of the G77 and China. We thank the Secretary General for his report, which speaks of the devastating impact of the Israeli occupation, which has damaged infrastructure and the survival of the Palestinian people. It is distressing that more than 70% of civilian infrastructure has been destroyed, irreparably impacting the daily life of the population. 89% of water, sanitation, hygiene installations have been either damaged or destroyed, and 85% of water pumping stations and water treatment works are non-operational. As a result, around 2.2 million people today lack access to drinking water. They are facing a humanitarian crisis that requires an urgent response from the international community. The war in Gaza and the restrictions imposed by the occupation have resulted in the collapse of the economy, massive loss of employment, and a regression in human development that is the equivalent of approximately seven decades. Today in Gaza, almost 100% of the population depends totally on humanitarian Aid this reflects not only the material Devastation but also the erosion of Hope and dignity of an entire people chair we are concerned by the escalation of violence and the destruction that we have witnessed over recent years Chile has condemned the actions of Hamas together with any terrorist act violent or hostilities against civilian population but also the indiscriminate population of the state of Israel on the population in the Gaza Strip but that has also impacted the West Bank, has led to destruction of unprecedented magnitude. We are especially troubled by the disproportionate impact the occupation and armed conflict is having on the most vulnerable groups, especially women, girls and boys. They are by far and away the greatest number of victims, in addition to older people and those with disabilities. We call for international law and international humanitarian law to be respected and complied with, and for the protection of civilians. The continued expansion of settlements and the activity of settlers in the occupied territories represent a violation of international law and a major obstacle to peace. This also compromises the future territorial integrity of the Palestinian state. We also call for respect for Resolution 497 of 1981 to bring an end to the settlements in the Syrian Golan. We welcome the first phase of the agreement between Israel and Hamas, achieved thanks to mediation of the US, Egypt, Turkey and Qatar. We will continue to work in good faith. And we hope that this will ensure that the necessary humanitarian aid is guaranteed, together with the security of all people. The international community, and especially this forum, should continue putting pressure for a just, lasting solution that will recognize the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination. This is the only way to achieve a just, sustainable solution with two states within recognized borders. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Chile. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Namibia.

Mr. Chair, Namibia aligns with the statement delivered by Iraq on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. Namibia has constantly and unequivocally upheld the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, independence and sovereignty. Our position is not one of political convenience, but one of principle rooted in the very foundation of international law, the UN Charter, and the countless resolutions adopted by this own history, the profound value of freedom, and the heavy cost of occupation. Drawing from our experience of being oppressed, we understand the sanctity of land, the equitable use of natural resources, and the inalienable right of all people to determine their own destiny. Therefore, Namibia remains deeply concerned by the continued occupation and exploitation of Palestinian land, which contravenes international law and the principles of justice. In this regard, Namibia reiterates its unwavering support for the full implementation of relevant UN resolutions and calls for renewed multilateral efforts towards a just and lasting two-state solution based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Palestine, living side by side with Israel in peace and security. The continued refusal of the Israeli Government to cooperate meaningfully with the United Nations and the independent human rights mechanisms remains a matter of deep concern. Such obstruction undermines international efforts aimed at achieving peace, accountability and justice for the Palestinian people. Furthermore, Namibia reaffirms that the aspirations of the UN80 initiative to renew multilateralism, restore global trust and accelerate sustainable development cannot be fulfilled when unilateral coercive measures continue to stifle the progress of sovereign nations. In this regard, Namibia strongly calls for the immediate and unconditional lifting of all sanctions imposed on Cuba, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe. These measures have inflicted unjust economic hardship, impeded national development efforts, and undermined the very principles of equality, sovereignty, and non-interference as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations. In conclusion, Namibia reaffirms its unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people reiterate that peace can only be achieved through justice, and justice can only be realized when international law and human rights are upheld. The time for selective silence has long passed. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Namibia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Indonesia aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the G77 and China and wish to add several points in our national capacity. We stress our utmost concern on the situation in the occupied Palestinian territory, particularly in Gaza. 70% of Gaza's civilian infrastructure is destroyed, with severe environmental destruction, food security and malnutrition at catastrophic levels, and abysmal economic losses. exceeding $5 billion. While Indonesia welcomes the agreement of ceasefire, we emphasize the need for concrete steps to end occupation and work towards a just and lasting solution in accordance with international law and the relevant UN resolution. On this note, Indonesia underscored three priorities. First, immediate actions to save lives. We reiterate our call to increase humanitarian assistance for Gaza. Unimpeded passage of aid from all crossings to the civilians must be guaranteed. The protection of humanitarian works, including UNRWA, must be ensured. Furthermore, the reconstruction process in Gaza should be Palestinian-owned and Palestinian-led. Indonesia stands ready to support this endeavor. Second, realizing full Palestinian economic sovereignty. We recall the commitments under the New York Declaration on a two-state solution to empower a sovereign and economically viable state of Palestine. Lifting movement and access restrictions of people and goods is essential to this end, to pave the way for the full access and enjoyment of the Palestinian people to their natural resources and the reintegration of Palestinian goods and services with the global market and financial systems. Safeguarding the two-state solution. We welcome the growing number of countries that recognize the State of Palestine. We believe the political commitment should also translate to supporting institutional capacity towards a resilient State of Palestine, including effective resource management, revenue generation, and fiscal autonomy, as well as good governance and transparency. In this regard, Indonesia consistently contributed through various technical cooperations, trainings, and scholarship. Mr. Chair, in closing, Indonesia calls upon the international community to seize the momentum to realize the establishment of an independent state of Palestine with its thriving, viable, and sovereign economy. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Guyana.

Thank you, Chair. Guyana aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the G77 and China. Chair, a year has elapsed since this committee last met to speak on the state of the lives of the people in the occupied territories of Palestine, including East Jerusalem, as well as the Syrian Golan. It would have seemed unimaginable at that time that the situation could be worse today. Sadly, in the past 12 months, we have witnessed nothing short of absolute devastation forced upon these populations. Israel's war in Gaza has forged on for an additional year, taking tens of thousands of Palestinian lives. Meanwhile, the United Nations' Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory including East Jerusalem, has found that Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. Chair, Israel's prolonged occupation and its hostilities against the populations of Palestine and its devastating consequences have been a stark illustration of the importance of self-determination and permanent sovereignty over natural resources. When a people is prevented from exercising the agency to determine their own development path, their fate is driven not by their own ideas and ingenuity, but instead by the acts of extremist populations determined to continue the implementation of a colonial settler policy. We call on all members of the international community to use their voice and influence to address progress on this issue. We must ensure that as the implementation of the agreement to reach a permanent ceasefire in Gaza progresses in the coming weeks and months, there is commitment by all parties to pursue a peace that is just. Chair, allow me to conclude by expressing our hope that these negotiations for peace will be executed in good faith by all parties. It is essential, as the fighting comes to an end, that not only must concerted action be taken to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, but also the restoration of the livelihoods of the Palestinian people. For there to be a just and lasting peace, the occupation must end across all of the Palestinian territory and also in the Syrian Golan. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Guyana. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Maldives.

Thank you, Chair. Every nation and every people is born with the right to self-determination, to live in freedom and dignity, to draw sustenance from their own land, and to shape their future without obstruction. Deny them this, and peace itself recedes beyond reach. This is the story of the Palestinian people and of the Arab population in occupied Syrian Golan. Decades of injustice and continued aggression have taken away control over their land, water, and natural resources. The very basics of livelihood taken over. The lifelines of development, hope, prosperity, exploited and depleted. The destruction of olive groves, farms, and industry in the occupied Palestinian territories and in Syrian Golan is not just a violation of international international law. It is a denial of human rights, including the right to development and a life of dignity. Development cannot thrive without peace. People, industry, and progress cannot flourish under occupation, apartheid, and oppression. While the Maldives welcomes the ceasefire agreement, ceasefire is not peace. It is but a pause. Peace built on conditions is doomed to fail. Peace cannot last without justice. And justice will not be achieved without sovereignty. We must not forget, sovereignty is not a privilege, but an inherent right. It is not politics. It is a people's hope to shape their destiny and chart their own path to prosperity. For Palestine and the Syrian Golan to achieve sustainable development, Israel's occupation must end completely, without conditions. Palestine belongs to the Palestinians. Justice must come full circle. Only then can we truly achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development that leaves no one and no country behind. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Maldives. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Jordan.

Thank you, Mr. President. We align ourselves with the statement delivered on behalf of the G77 and China and the statement of the Arab Group. I would also like to thank ESCWA and the executive secretary and her team for preparing the report subject of our discussion today. The report stressed that the illegal Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territory and the Syrian Golan negatively affects all aspects of the life of the Palestinian and Syrian population, including their sovereignty over their natural resources, in addition to the restrictions imposed by Israel, the occupying power, the expansion of illegal settlements and the displacement of Palestinians from their lands. The report clearly indicates that the transfer of administrative powers by the Israeli government from the military authorities to Israeli civilian authorities makes it practically easier to annex parts of the Palestinian territory. This comes along with other practices which not only prevented development, but also had severe humanitarian, economic, social, and political implications to Palestinian people. The crimes that Israel has committed since its aggression against the Palestinian people in Gaza nearly two years ago are no secret, including reprisals and collective punishment that had led to the collapse of the humanitarian system in Gaza and the starvation of its people. Since the outbreak of the war, basic services have been disrupted by deliberate attacks on civilian and UN infrastructure, namely schools, hospitals, mosques, and churches, as well as the targeting of agriculture, energy, water, and sanitation systems. Mr. President, we underscore the ICJ advisory opinion of 19 July 2024, which affirmed the illegality of Israeli settlements and their associated regime. We reiterate the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, including their right to self-determination, freedom, and permanent sovereignty over their natural resources. Mr. President, we welcome the signing of the Gaza agreement at the Sharm el-Sheikh Peace Summit, and we commend the decisive role of His Excellency the U.S. President in reaching this agreement and his commitment to ending the war and advancing the path of peace and development in the region. stressed the need to adhere to the ceasefire agreement in Gaza and to implement its full provisions to include the ending of the war, addressing the catastrophic consequences caused by the aggression, and ensuring the entry of adequate and immediate humanitarian aid to end the famine in Gaza Strip. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Jordan. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bahrain.

foreign language

thank you Mr President uh when we at the outset we commended the agreement that was signed during the sharm sheik peace summit in line with the peace plan proposed by his Excellency President Donald Trump to end the war in Gaza release hostages and detainees and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid to civilians this historic Summit carries new hope for the people of the region towards peace and stability. It is an important step to strengthen regional and international efforts aiming at realizing permanent peace in the region, opening a new chapter of peace and stability therein. The agreement is not a political step only, but also a humanitarian necessity that gives hope in a decent and safe life and provides a stable environment for prosperity and development. contributing to consolidating peace for the benefit of all peoples in the region. Mr. President, according to the 2025 ECOSOC report, the human development index in the Palestinian territory suffered a severe decrease. The estimates of ESCWA and UNDP foresee that there will be further decline in this human development index. In this context, Bahrain reiterates its unwavering support to the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, primarily the establishment of their independent state, and for its positive impact to affect the youth and people in Palestine and all countries in the region. We categorically refuse any attempts for forcible displacement or settlement expansion or undermining of the historic and religious status quo of Jerusalem as a city that is a cradle of the three monotheistic religions throughout history. We welcomed also the resolution of the General Assembly to adopt the New York Declaration regarding the peaceful settlement of the Palestinian question and the implementation of the two-state solution. We commend the international recognition of the state of Palestine. and the extensive efforts of Saudi Arabia in partnership with France. In conclusion, we reiterate our unwavering support for anything that would help establish peace and enhance collaboration internationally for a future of peace and stability for all peoples in the region. Thank you, Mr. President.

Representative of Bahrain. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Syrian Arab Republic.

Foreign language Thank you, Mr. Chair. At the outset, my country joins the statements delivered by the esteemed delegations of Iraq and the Sultanate of Oman on behalf of the G77 and China and the Arab Group. Mr. Chair, the Occupied Syrian Golan has witnessed a dangerous and unprecedented escalation in Israeli settlement activities over the past year. This includes the expansion of existing settlements and the establishment of new units as part of a systematic plan aimed at imposing illegal demographic and geographic changes by doubling the number of settlers. These aggressive policies have exacerbated the suffering of our people in the Golan. They have been deprived of access to their agricultural lands and sources of livelihood. They've been stripped of their economic and social rights under discriminatory practices and systematic restrictions that undermine their dignity and fundamental rights. In this context, the occupying authorities persist in implementing a dangerous settlement project involving the construction of massive wind turbines on confiscated Syrian agricultural land. This constitutes a blatant assault on private property. It's a direct threat to livelihoods. It's a destruction of the ecosystem with serious health and environmental consequences for residents and local communities. These policies and practices represent a serious escalation and a flagrant violation of the will of the international community and of international legitimacy for a most Security Council resolution 497 of 1981. This resolution clearly affirmed that Israel's imposition of its laws, jurisdiction, and administration in the occupied Syrian Golan is null and void and without any legal effect, Mr. Chair. The ambitions of the occupying authorities have not stopped at the borders of the Golan. They have escalated their attacks on Syrian territory through illegal incursions beyond that. They have went beyond the separation zone into vast areas of Quneitra, rural Damascus, and Daraa governorates. These violations have been accompanied by grave abuses against civilians, including intimidation, arbitrary detention, property confiscation, and severe restrictions on freedom of movement. All of this comes in blatant violation of international humanitarian law, the UN Charter, and human rights conventions. Occupation forces have also seized strategic dams and water complexes. They carried out widespread bulldozing of agricultural lands, uprooted trees, and destroyed different forested areas. This caused severe damage to water and food security in southern Syria. Despite such grave violations, my country has engaged positively and responsibly with Israel, proceeding from our firm commitment to international legitimacy. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Syrian Arab Republic. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bangladesh.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Bangladesh aligns itself with the statement delivered by Iraq on behalf of the G77 and China. We approach this agenda item in this committee from the core premise that permanent sovereignty over natural resources is indispensable from right to self-determination and right to development. And these rights cannot exist under occupation. Mr. Chair, the International Court of Justice in its advisory opinion last year determined that Israel's continued presence and exploitation of natural resources in the occupied Palestinian territory is unlawful and must cease. Despite legal binding and repeated political calls, Palestine remains under occupation, and its natural resources are still being misappropriated. The economic toll of this occupation is devastating. UNCTAD reports that Gaza's economy is shrinking to a fraction of its 2022 level, and its unemployment has surged to 69%. World Bank reports a cumulative loss of $170 billion in the West Bank's economy since 2000. With nearly all economic activities destroyed and numerous precious lives starved to death, Israel has also entirely decimated the humanitarian operations. Leaving the world speechless, it has killed hundreds of aid workers, among them more than 370 UN staff members. Palestine is facing a genocide. The genocide must stop. Legal, political, and economic justice for Palestinians must be ensured. We welcome the recently agreed ceasefire. At the same time, we demand the following. First, full, immediate, and sustained humanity and access to UNRWA must be ensured to restore basic services, including fuel, food, medical supplies, and commercial flows. Second, the resources must be mobilized and funding support provided through an effective and sustainable plan, such as the Arab Islamic Reconstruction Plan. Third, economic recovery must be ensured through immediate lifting of closures of facilities, restrictions on movement and release of withheld revenues. Fourth, expansion of settlement and appropriation of and exploitation of resources by Israel, including the occupation of Syria and Golan, must stop in line with international law and relevant resolutions. Finally, Mr. Chair, Durable peace and development rest on an independent, sovereign, and economically viable state of Palestine. We demand a two-state solution based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Bangladesh. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Qatar.

Mr.

Chair, we thank the Secretary-General of the UN and ESQA for their contributions to prepare the report before the committee. We align ourselves with the statement by the G77 and China and the Arab Group and the GCC statement. The report of the Secretary-General indicated that the military Israeli occupation of the occupied Arab territory in addition to the aggressions and violations of human rights by security forces of Israel, Israeli settlers, and the long-term discriminatory approach pursued by Israel as a result of its control over the Palestinian territories. All of this is undermining Palestinian rights, including the right to self-determination. The Secretary-General's report indicated some of the repercussions of these phenomena. The situations have deteriorated. After the reporting period, we call for ending the military Israeli occupation of the occupied Palestinian territory to end the economic and social repercussions. on the living conditions of the Palestinian people in the occupied Palestinian territory and the population in the occupied Syrian Golan. We welcome the adoption by the GA of the ICJ advisory opinion on the legal consequences of the practices by Israel in the occupied Palestinian territory last year and the illegality of the occupation and its practices. We call for -- we call Israel -- or the ICJ called Israel called upon Israel to end its occupation and abide by all its international commitments. Mr. Chair, since the war on Gaza, Qatar has been committed to providing development and humanitarian assistance to those affected. despite the restrictions, despite the obstacles on the entry of humanitarian aid. This included thousands of tons of food, medication, and medical supplies, in addition to shelters and field hospitals. We provided treatment and healthcare to thousands of the injured and sick. The total support provided to UNRWA by Qatar amounts to $49 million. We renewed our agreement with UNRWA to continue our multi-year support worth $20 million as a ceasefire has been agreed. We see the success of the mediation efforts by Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, and the US. We continue to enter in maintaining aid in response to the urgent needs and to alleviate the suffering of our brethren, the Palestinian people in Gaza. In conclusion, we reiterate our firm commitment. We support the just Palestinian cause. We support the sovereignty of the Palestinian people over their national resources and all its rights. includes the establishment of an independent state along 1967 borders. I thank you.

I now give the floor to the Deputy Permanent Representative of Pakistan.

Thank you, Chairman. Pakistan aligns itself with the statement delivered by Iraq on behalf of G77 and China. We thank the Secretary-General for the report on this agenda item, which vividly documents the grave economic, social, and humanitarian conditions resulting from Israel's continued occupation of Palestinian territory and the Syrian Golan. The truth is stark. More than 67,000 Palestinians, the vast majority women and children, have lost their lives during the brutal onslaught of last two years. The civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, lie in complete ruin. The report underscores that since 2023, nearly 90% of Gaza's population has been displaced. Life expectancy has declined by almost half, and the entire population is facing acute food insecurity. The IPC report in August confirmed famine in Gaza City and surrounding areas. The systematic destruction of homes, farmland, energy and water systems, and industrial facilities, combined with restrictions on movement and access, has entrenched the economic collapse, The report estimates that it would take decades, nearly a century, to reconstruct what has been destroyed. This is not war. It is the erasure of a people's future. The occupying power must be held fully accountable for it. The situation in the occupied Syrian Golan also remains deeply concerning. As the report notes, Israel continues to expand illegal settlements, displace the Syrian population, and appropriate agricultural lands and water resources. Chair, sustainable development cannot be achieved under occupation. Pakistan reaffirms the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and full sovereignty over their natural resources. Pakistan welcomes the recent efforts to advance peace. It is essential to consolidate and sustain these gains. The ceasefire must be fully respected and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance at scale must be ensured. Pakistan hopes that these efforts will pave the way for a credible political process leading to the establishment of an independent, viable, and contiguous state of Palestine with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital, in accordance with the pre-1967 borders and relevant UN resolutions. I thank you.

I thank the Deputy Permanent Representative of Pakistan. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of United Arab Emirates.

Mr. Chair, at the outset, I would like to associate myself to the statement of the G77 and China, as well as the statements of the GCC and the Arab Group. Mr. Chair, the permanent sovereignty over the natural resources is a right to all people and the precondition to ensure sustainable development and human dignity. However, the Palestinian people in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and the Arab population in the occupied Syrian Golan, face increasing restrictions that deprive them from exercising this fundamental right. The continued Israeli occupation has affected the ability of the the Palestinian people to administer their natural resources. The restrictions on movement, access to agricultural land and coastal areas undermine economic development, as well as chances for good livelihood. Proceeding from this, we welcomed the ICJ opinion issued in July of 2024. This opinion stresses the illegal Israeli occupation and the need to put an end to it. We express our deep concern due to the exacerbating humanitarian conditions of the Palestinian people in a tragic way, with the lack of water, its deteriorating quality, increased food insecurity and health conditions, especially among women, girls and children. They are suffering from worsening health conditions. They are deprived from basic services. The Israeli war against Gaza over the past two years exacerbated the situation. The humanitarian conditions have reached critical levels due to the restrictions imposed on access to health care, food, and potable water, as well as energy. This comes in addition to the huge damage to agriculture and critical infrastructure. Mr. Chair, protecting natural resources of the Palestinian people is not just an urgent humanitarian matter. It's a necessity to achieve sustainable development, which ensures for future generations good and stable livelihood. We hope that the agreement on the first phase of ceasefire in Gaza would be a step towards ending this humanitarian humanitarian suffering. My country supports all efforts aimed at finding a comprehensive, just, and durable solution to the Palestinian cause based on the two-state solution, while establishing an independent state of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital, living side by side with the state of Israel in peace and stability.

Representative of United Arab Emirates. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malaysia.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Malaysia aligns itself with the statement delivered by Iraq on behalf of G77 and China. Convening a discussion on this item reflects a clear manifestation of our firm and continuing commitment to peace. Malaysia wishes to put forth three points. First, the solution to this longstanding conflict must be based on international law and the UN Charter. International law, the UN Charter, and relevant UN resolutions, as well as rulings and opinions of The International Court of Justice must set the parameters and provide the guiding principles in our endeavor. In line with the relevant UN resolutions, we must galvanize our efforts to realize the inalienable right to the self-determination of the Palestinian people through a fully sovereign state of Palestine based on the pre-1967 borders. Malaysia calls for respect and preservation of the territorial unity, contiguity and integrity of all of the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and of the Arab population in the occupied Syrian Golan. Further, it is essential to emphasize the inadmissibility of acquiring territory by war, and the need to strive for a just and lasting peace in which every state in the area can live in security. The recognition of state of Palestine is a crucial step to protect the two-state solution. At this juncture, Malaysia commends countries that have made the bold decision to recognize the state of Palestine, and urges others that have not to do so urgently. Dear Mr. Chair, secondly, we must protect and strengthen the central role of the United Nations. Malaysia calls for the permanent responsibility of the United Nations towards the question of Palestine until it is satisfactorily resolved in all aspects based on international legitimacy. Each state has the duty to respect the personality of other states. Therefore, Malaysia condemns all acts of violence, terrorism, and destruction. Malaysia also looks forward to ICJ's advisory opinion on the obligations of Israel in relation to the presence and activities of the United Nations, other international organizations, and third states in the occupied Palestinian territory on 22nd October 2025. And call for swift follow-up to the court's ruling. Dear Mr. Chair, thirdly, We must ensure the viability of the Palestinian state. A fully sovereign and independent state of Palestine can only be meaningful if its authorities can exercise complete control over its territories and natural resources and thrive economically. In the spirit of leaving no one behind, Malaysia is ready to offer capacity building programs to help strengthen Palestinian state building efforts.

I thank the distinguished representative of Malaysia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria. You have the floor.

Mr. Chair, we would like to express our deep outrage over the economic and social repercussions of the Israeli occupation on the Palestinian people. The Palestinian economy has incurred significant losses exceeding $5 billion in 2024. This is a contraction by 28% of the GDP in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. The economy of Gaza contracted by 86%. Unemployment has reached unprecedented levels, an average of 51%. More than 360,000 Palestinians lost their jobs. Poverty has increased significantly. Gaza has seen an almost complete destruction of living conditions, and the West Bank continues to suffer from restrictions on land, resources, and economic activity. We are gravely concerned over what has been confirmed last July that the Gaza Strip is facing a severe threat of famine. All residents are suffering from high levels of food insecurity. Half a million people, meaning one in five, are facing starvation. Most children are suffering from severe malnutrition. The restrictions, the siege, the lack of fuel, the destruction of infrastructure disrupted the access to basic services. 90% of health facilities have been destroyed in Gaza. health and sanitation system have been destroyed. Education has suffered significantly. 754 children, or rather 658,000 children, have lost a whole school year. 95% of schools in Gaza have been destroyed, and the rest have been turned into shelters. Women, specifically, are facing immense difficulties. There are more than 12,000 widows. Many of them have become the sole breadwinners for their families. access to reproductive health remains limited. Algeria stresses the need for the international community to act swiftly to provide urgent humanitarian support, including food, medical care, and reconstruction of hospitals and schools. In conclusion, our message is clear. Our position is clear. We will continue to support the Palestinian people. The defined Palestinian people will always be on the side of truth and justice. The Palestinian cause is justice. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Algeria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Gambia.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. The Gambia expresses profound support for the recent development efforts towards achieving a just and lasting peace. My delegation views these developments as significant steps towards regional stability and urges all parties to engage in good faith, finalize the peace plan, and put an end to the humanitarian catastrophe. In this spirit, we call for the full and sustained implementation of the New York Declaration, including an immediate and permanent ceasefire, and urge all parties to ensure full cooperation. We further endorse the implementation of the development of a comprehensive post-war instruction plan for Gaza that ensures sustainable recovery, respects Palestinian sovereignty, and is coordinated through legitimate Palestinian institutions. Mr. Chair, The Gambia reiterates its urgent call for full compliance and respect for international humanitarian law and the UN Charter as a cornerstone for peace security in the region. We express concern over the systematic obstruction of humanitarian access and the exploitation of natural resources, which severely undermines Palestinian economic viability and sustainable development. We underscore the vital role of UNRWA for Palestinian refugees alongside other UN agencies and call on the international community to ensure sustained and predictable funding to guarantee the continuity of its lifesaving work. in this connection Mr chair the gamb stresses the following first the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to permanent sovereignty over their natural resources in the occupied Palestinian territory including East Jerusalem second the urgent need for safe immediate and unhindered humanitarian access throughout Gaza third an immediate end to all activities violating international law including settlement expansion land confiscation and the illegal exploitation and depletion of natural resources in conclusion Mr chair the gamb urges the International Community to amplify call and uphold its responsibility on the international law and relevant UN resolutions for the realization of a two-state solution, including the establishment of a fully independent, viable, and sovereign Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, living side by side with the State of Israel in peace and security throughout the region. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Gambia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iraq.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. We align ourselves with the statement of G77 and China and the Arab Group. We express our gratitude to ESQA for the efforts in preparing and presenting the report subject of our discussion under this agenda item. It reveals some aspects of the suffering of the Palestinian people and Syrian population in the occupied Syrian Golan as a result of Israeli practices and violations that are applied to the occupied Arab territories. Mr. Chair, the report confirms that the Israeli violations are ongoing in violation of international law and international humanitarian law. and affected the socioeconomic conditions of people living under its military occupation. It highlights the humanitarian, economic, and social conditions in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and particularly in Gaza Strip that is besieged and that witnessed a grave deterioration in its conditions as a result of the ongoing Israeli practices and the genocide, the aggression launched by Israel against the Palestinian people in Gaza Strip over the past two years. This has led to huge human and economic losses, growing rates of poverty and unemployment, and increasing food insecurity to the amount of a complete famine in addition to deterioration of health services education and the financial and economic conditions of Palestinians into unprecedented levels Israel that occupy the occupation has destroyed electricity, water networks, as well as schools that led to an unprecedented catastrophe in Gaza Strip, a full paralysis of all public services, and a direct undermining of the lives of people in a blatant violation of all international laws and norms. The report stresses that Palestinians in the West Bank are subject to thousands of arbitrary military orders issued by the occupation since 1967. The right of the Palestinian people is unwavering, is fundamental in their permanent sovereignty over their natural resources. We call for fulfilling the obligations to take concrete measures in line with the UN Charter, international resolutions, In that regard, we welcome the ICJ advisory opinion that stresses the illegality of the occupation and calls for its swift ending. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Iraq. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of League of Arab States.

Zaid Al Rais.

Mr. Chair, at the outset, I would like to express our concern over the contents of the Secretary-General's report regarding the ongoing Israeli violations in the occupied territories and the resulting worsening humanitarian and economic tragedy endured by the Palestinian people. This is especially due to the brutal Israeli military aggression over the past two years. This aggression led to a widespread destruction of infrastructure, the collapse of health and education systems, and the deprivation of millions of civilians from the basic necessities of a dignified life. It has exacerbated poverty, unemployment, and food insecurity to the point where famine now threatens the lives of Gaza's residents in an unprecedented manner. It is part of a malicious effort by Israel, the occupying power, to forcibly displace the resilient Palestinian people. Additionally, there has been systematic expansion of settlements in clear violation of Security Council Resolution 2334 of 2016. Attacks by settlers on Palestinian civilians and their property have increased, as have assaults on holy sites, especially Al-Aqsa Mosque, with the participation and protection of Israeli occupation forces and support from the extremist right-wing government. In the occupied the Syrian Golan, Israel continues to exploit natural resources, confiscate agricultural lands, and pollute water resources. It has also implemented massive settlement projects, most notably the wind turbine project, which has caused extensive environmental damage and serious harm to Syrian farmers. These actions are a blatant violation of international legitimacy, which affirms the invalidity of any Israeli measure aimed at altering the legal or demographic status of the occupied Golan. Mr. Chair, the League of Arab States calls on the international community to take practical and effective steps to end the Israeli occupation of all Arab territories within a year, in accordance with the opinion of the ICJ, and to hold the extremist occupation authorities accountable for their crimes. Following the signing of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza during the Sharm el-Sheikh summit, it's imperative to allow the entry of humanitarian aid through all crossings in large quantities and to support the implementation of the recovery and reconstruction plan adopted by the emergency Arab summit in Cairo. These plans were endorsed by the UN Conference on the Settlement of the Palestinian Issue and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution in July and September of 2025, as well as through the New York Declaration and its detailed annex, which outlines specific steps to support the Palestinian government financially and logistically via a fund established specifically to enable it to control all its territory within the independent Palestinian state. Thank you.

League of Arab States. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Pan-African Intergovernmental Agency for Water and Sanitation for Africa.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Excellencies, it is with great honor and privilege for our mission to be at this meeting with respect to water, sanitation, and hygiene. Mr. Chair, the continued Israeli occupation of the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem and the occupied Syrian Golan, has resulted in profound and systematic economic and social effects for the affected populations. Among the most critical impacts are those related to water, sanitation and hygiene, which are fundamental human rights and essential components of public health and dignity. Our mission is pleased to highlight favourably the challenges encountered as a result of the continued occupation of Israelis, such as including water access and control, which has restricted Palestine access to water resources with disproportionate allocation favoring Israel settlements. Sanitation and public health. Inadequate sanitation systems in densely populated area, specifically refugee camp and rural zones, have led to increased health risk, including waterborne diseases, restriction on importing materials and equipment under the maintenance and expansion of sanitation infrastructure. Impact on women and children. Women and girls bear the burden of water collection and hygiene management, often under unsafe and undignified conditions. Lack of access to clean water and sanitation in schools affect girls' education and menstrual health management, creating impediments to sanitation and public health. The Serengolia communities face similar challenges, with limited investment in water infrastructure and unequal access compared to Israeli settlers. Mr. Chair, the second committee burdened with responsibility for addressing global economic development, environmental sustainability, and the rights of people under occupation. The present occupation offers urgent challenges that intersect directly with the committee's mandate. Our mission posits that restricted access to water and sanitation undermines economic productivity. The committee should uphold economic and social rights of occupied population. The committee should intercede on the rights of people towards water and sanitation. Mr. Chair, our mission believe that the second committee must treat water, sanitation, and hygiene not only as a development issue, but as human rights imperative. It is necessary to address the consequences of occupation that are essential to achieving SDG 6, promoting vulnerable population and upholding UN Charter. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Pan-African Intergovernmental Agency for Water and Sanitation for Africa. Distinguished delegates, we have heard the last speaker on the list for this morning and thus concluded the general discussion of item 60. I wish to recall that the submission deadline for draft proposal 00 p.m. on Tuesday, 21st of October. The exercise of the right to reply has been requested in accordance with rule 115 of the rules of procedure of the General Assembly. I would like to remind delegations that the number of interventions in exercise of the right of reply for any delegation at a given meeting should be limited to two per item. The first intervention should be limited to five minutes, and the second to three minutes. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Israel.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. This has been a meaningful week for Israelis and for Palestinians. For two years, since October 7, 2023, we have been waiting for this moment. For two years, we were praying for our hostages' return, our hostages who were abducted from their homes on the most terrible day in our country's history. We had not received any sign of life from so many of them until their return on Monday morning. So you can only imagine the sigh of relief we feel as a nation. There is nothing more joyful than watching these brave men reunite with their families and loved ones. There are no more living hostages in Gaza. However, the terrorists of Hamas still hold the bodies of 19 hostages. We eagerly wait for their return so that we can bury them with dignity. But for now, the ceasefire holds. So yes, this was a good week. It is thus with much disappointment that I take the floor in reply to some of the statements made by different delegates, including those from Bangladesh, Iran, Nicaragua, Algeria, Pakistan, and others. Earlier this week, heads of states joined together in Sharm el-Sheikh in a peace summit chaired by U.S. President Trump and Egyptian President El-Sisi to make a bold statement and commit to its delivery. With over 30 leaders from our region and beyond, they declare, and I quote, "Ending more than two years of profound suffering and loss, opening a new chapter for the region defined by hope, security, and a shared vision for peace and prosperity. No society can flourish when violence and racism are normalized, or when radical ideologies threaten the fabric of civil life. We commit to addressing the conditions that enable extremism and to promoting education opportunity and mutual respect as foundation for lasting peace. These are powerful and hopeful words, a vision worthy of our region's future. And yet the tone expressed in the statements stands in stark contrast to our discussion today. While leaders speak of cooperation and coexistence, here in the halls of the UN, we continue to hear the same rhetoric that divides us instead of unites us. The same one-sided and selective statements we have heard over and over again, portraying the situation on the ground in such a narrow and selective manner. These fundamentally one-sided narratives distort the truth and undermine the cause of peace. Today's discussion did not contribute to stability and peace in the Middle East, it drove it further away. Some of the statements we have heard deepened division and polarization instead of healing them. After two years of war, we have to look forward with determination and hope to rebuild, to strengthen, and to lead with a vision of peace and development. We have a real opportunity here for a long-term ceasefire in Gaza and the beginning of something new. Chair, we also want to recognize and welcome member states that did recognize these positive changes. It was refreshing to hear. The people of Israel and the people of Gaza both deserve to live free from terror, to build lives grounded in peace, stability, and opportunity. So please rethink, update your talking points, and follow your own leadership. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Israel. The Committee has thus concluded its general discussion of all items. As delegations are aware, the Committee will hold its annual dialogue with the executive secretaries of regional commissions on Tuesday, 21 October, at 10 a.m., in this conference room. The Committee is at the beginning of its intensive phase of informal consultation of draft proposals. The schedule of informals has been circulated, and the individual informal consultations are included in the second Committee calendar of meetings on the e-delegates and iGov platforms. I call on all delegates to demonstrate a constructive attitude and flexibility with a view to reaching consensus on draft proposals. The Bureau is at your disposal to support the negotiations. The meeting is adjourned. Thank you.