UN Transcripts — https://transcripts.un.org/en/hrc/61/9 9th Meeting - 61st Session of Human Rights Council — 26 February 2026 Language: en Automatically generated transcript — may contain errors. Not an official United Nations record. --- Speaker 1 [13:55]: Important announcement. Speakers are kindly reminded to deliver their statements at a reasonable pace to ensure complete and quality interpretation. Integra ide calidad. HRC · Chair [15:25]: Excellencies, distinguished participants. I hereby Declare open the Nines meeting of the 61st session of the Human Rights Council. We will now continue the enhanced interactive dialogue on report of the independent International Fact Finding Mission for the Sudan combined with the dialogue with the High Commissioner for Human Rights and and expert on human rights in the Sudan. We continue with the list of speakers for states and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Somalia. Somalia [16:11]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Somalia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Africa Group. The Federal Republic of Somalia takes note of the reports of the Fact Finding Mission and the High Commissioner of the situation in Sudan. We strongly condemn the grave violations and abuses committed against civilians, in particular the tragic developments in Al Fashar. We stress that those responsible for these crimes, specifically Danan State armed groups to be held accountable in accordance with international humanitarian law and human rights law. We call upon all parties to a conflict to uphold their commitments under the Jeddah Declarations and and to fully respect the protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel. Somalia welcomes the African Union and the IGA Peace Initiative presented by the Government of the Republic of Sudan at the United nations surety council on December 22, 2025. Somalia calls upon the international community to provide the necessary humanitarian and recovery support to the Government of Sudan at this very critical time. Finally, we reaffirm our full solidarity with the government and the burial people of Sudan in their efforts to preserve the UN integrity and the political independence for their country and to restore peace and stability in Sudan. I thank you, Mr. Vice President. HRC · Chair [17:31]: Thank you, Somalia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Sudan. South Sudan [17:39]: Mr. Vice President. South Sudan aligns itself with the African Group statement and takes note of the reports of the Fact Finding Mission and the High Commissioner for Human Rights. We reaffirm our unwavering solidarity with the people of Sudan during this exceptionally difficult period. As a direct neighbor bound by history, culture and a shared destiny, South Sudan remained deeply engaged in seeking a peaceful resolution to the conflict. At this stage, South Sudan is of the view that the immediate and utmost priority is to silence the guns and achieve the ceasefire. Paving the way to humanitarian relief followed by dialogue from all Sudanese parties towards reaching amicable consensual solution within the principle of complementarity and without external undue influence. South Sudan reaffirmed its strong support for Sudan's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity and commends Sudan's government for its constructive cooperation with the Office of the High Commissioner for human rights, the UN designated expert, as well as with the Regional Mechanism AU and IGAD. And. Thank you, Mr. Vice President. HRC · Chair [19:02]: Thank you, sir. Sudan. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of UN Women. UN Women [19:10]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Sudan is facing one of the gravest human rights crises of our time with women and girls bearing the brunt of mass atrocities. Systematic and coordinated sexual and gender based violence has been documented as amounting to international crimes. These violations are not incidental. They are central to the conduct of conflict. Women's rights and accountability for gender based violations must be at the core of all diplomatic and humanitarian efforts. This requires an immediate ceasefire to halt atrocities and ensure unrestricted humanitarian access for the provision of life saving services. Justice and accountability are essential to deter further crimes and to uphold international law. The international community must strengthen cooperation with and support for international accountability mechanisms, apply targeted sanctions against perpetrators and enablers and support evidence gathering and survival center operations. Sudanese women and women led organizations must be protected and meaningfully included in decision making. Their leadership is critical to shaping humanitarian responses and ensuring that any peace process reflects the aspirations of the Sudanese people for justice and dignity. I thank you. HRC · Chair [20:41]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Egypt. Egypt [20:51]: Thank you, President. Egypt stands in solidarity with the Sudanese people. We want to see a return of security and stability to this country. We follow with concern violations and atrocities perpetrated by the RSF militia. We condemn what happened in Al Fashr and then Kordofan. We support the territorial integrity of Sudan as well as its national institutions. We reject any attempts to divide this country or to to create parallel organs in that state or to intervene in its internal affairs, the country's internal affairs. We will continue our efforts through our participation in the various fora to provide support to provide humanitarian aid to civilians. There needs to be conditions in place to have peace and a situation which is consistent with the aspirations of the Sudanese people. Our position is clear that is the establishment of mechanisms by the Council or expanding their mandate must be approved by the state concerned, which bolsters cooperation based on mutual respect and to avoid politicization within the Council. We think it is necessary to strengthen human rights on an ongoing basis in Sudan. I thank you. HRC · Chair [22:22]: Thank you, Egypt. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia [22:35]: Thank you, Vice President. Since the start of the conflict in Sudan, we have shouldered our responsibilities vis a vis the Sudanese people. We have made diplomatic efforts to resolve this conflict. So. So the two parties to the conflict signed the Jeddah Declaration on the 11th of May 2023. The goal being to protect civilians, allow provision of humanitarian aid, observe international humanitarian law, international human rights law and reach measures to restore trust. Despite those efforts, despite our commitment to Sudan and its people, we believe that the Italian attacks by the RSF against Al Fasher constitute a flagrant violation of ihl. This led to many victims among civilians, damage done to infrastructure and to humanitarian convoys, and we firmly condemn those violations. In conclusion, we want to put an end to the war in Sudan and address the root causes of this conflict. We want to eliminate the threat to the territorial integrity and stability of Sudan. We'll be making the necessary efforts to put an end to the humanitarian crisis and to mitigate the suffering of the Sudanese people. Thank you. HRC · Chair [23:55]: Thank you, Saudi Arabia. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Liechtenstein. Liechtenstein [24:03]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Liechtenstein thanks the High Commissioner, the Fact Finding Mission and other panelists for their respective contributions. The continued flow of arms into the conflict is fueling violence, exacerbating the humanitarian catastrophe and undermining prospects for peace. Civilians have paid the highest price with persistent patterns of arbitrary deprivation of life, including through summary executions. Mr. Vice Presidents, we are deeply concerned by the repeated spikes in unlawful killings. Moreover, the continued recruitment of children in the context of the armed conflict is deeply alarming, with the Office of the High Commissioner documenting forced recruitment and mobilization of children by both parties, particularly in Darfur and Kordofan. We also condemn the reports of widespread conflict related sexual violence, including rape, gang rape, sexual slavery around Al Fasher and in Zamzam camp. We emphasize that these patterns of violence and targeting of civilians underscore the urgent need for accountability to hold perpetrators accountable and and prevent impunity and recurrence. In this respect, we also support the High Commissioner's call to extend the ICC jurisdiction to the entire territory of Sudan. I thank you, Mr. Vice President. HRC · Chair [25:20]: Thank you, Liechtenstein. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland. Switzerland [25:30]: Thank you, Vice President. Switzerland thanks the High Commissioner and the Independent International Fact Finding Mission on Sudan. Your harrowing reports document the grave violations of IHL and of human rights committed by the RSF forces in El Fashion. Switzerland is particularly alarmed by the use of famine as a weapon of war. Large scale massacres as well as widespread, systematic and coordinated acts of sexual violence targeting specifically women and girls from non Arab communities, in particular the Zagawa and the Fur. And after the FFM analysis, grave violations documented constitute War crimes, crimes against humanity and point to a trajectory towards genocide. We urge all states that can exert influence on the parties, especially regional actors and those benefiting from the conflict, to act urgently to put an end to those violations and help prevent new crimes, especially by the adoption of targeted sanctions and through force, full, complete cooperation with the icc. Switzerland supports the recommendations to ensure accountability at all levels and to guarantee justice and reparation for the victims. Dear members of the Fact Finding Mission, could you clarify your recommendation on the establishment of a judicial mechanism working in tandem with the icc? Thank you. HRC · Chair [26:55]: Thank you, Switzerland. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of China. China [27:19]: China is troubled by the large number of civilians trapped in the conflict. It firmly condemns attacks against civilians and against civilian infrastructure. It supports investigation into atrocities in line with international law so that the perpetrators are brought to justice. China calls for an immediate stop to hostilities to save civilians, civilian infrastructure and ensure humanitarian access and protect the fundamental rights such as the right to life of the Sudanese people. China fundamentally supports the sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of Sudan. Ultimately, it is up to the Sudanese people to resolve their own problems. Imposing solutions will only further complicate the problem. The Council should forge a consensus based on respect for the country concerned. Listen to it carefully so as to promote a lasting solution through dialogue and negotiations. I thank you. HRC · Chair [28:26]: Thank you, China. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ireland, Ireland [28:33]: President. Ireland aligns with the statement of the EU and I want to recall also the ministerial level core group statement earlier issued earlier today establishing a coalition for atrocity, prevention and justice in Sudan. Ireland remains deeply concerned, President, by the serious human rights violations and abuses being perpetrated in Sudan and particularly their devastating impact on women and girls, including from sexual and gender based violence. The actions of the rapid support forces during their offensive in and around Al Fashr are particularly heinous. As described in harrowing detail in the Fact Finding Missions report. It provides a damning indictment of the mass atrocities, including war crimes and crimes against humanity, committed by the RSF. We are horrified by the FFM's findings that the RSF carried out a coordinated campaign of destruction against non Arab communities with the hallmarks of genocide. Ireland unequivocally condemns these egregious acts. It is imperative that there is justice and accountability for the atrocities committed by the RSF in Al Fasher. Worryingly, the Fact Finding Mission also found that in the absence of effective prevention and accountability, the risk of further genocidal violence remains acute. The international community has a responsibility to act decisively and Urgently. It is crucial to that the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers is guaranteed. We call on all parties to the conflict to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law and to refrain from any actions which could fuel further violence. Thank you, Vice President. HRC · Chair [30:01]: Thank you, Ireland. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Slovenia. Slovenia [30:07]: Mr. Vice President. Slovenia aligns with the EU statement. As the conflict in Sudan approaches its third year, we are witnessing intensified hostilities, the use of sophisticated weaponry and deliberate attacks affecting civilians, including in Cordofan. The recent findings of the FFM inquiry on the fall of El Fasr are horrific. The RSF mass killings and related atrocities show hallmarks of genocide. Slovenia strongly condemns the abhorrent violence against civilians, especially women and children, and all violations and abuses of international human rights law and violations of international humanitarian law committed by all parties to the conflict. These violations may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity and all perpetrators must be held accountable. We call on all parties to the conflict to fully cooperate with the FFM and the ohchr, including by implementing human rights based confidence building measures proposed by the Office. The widespread use of sexual and gender based violence in this conflict appears aimed at silencing and marginalizing Sudanese women. It is essential to ensure their full, equal, meaningful and safe participation in all efforts to resolve this conflict and in shaping Sudan's future. Thank you. HRC · Chair [31:23]: Thank you, Slovenia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa. South Africa [31:29]: Vice President. South Africa aligns with the African group. We share the concerns expressed regarding the catastrophic impact of the conflict in Sudan on innocent lives. This is reflected in the unspeakable violations and abuses constituting war crimes which may also amount to crimes against humanity, including genocide. The report of the FFM brought this to the fore as demonstrated by the RSF's crimes in Al Fasha. The RSF's savagery is not new and bears all the hallmarks of an intent to destroy a group based on ethnicity. Those responsible must be held accountable, including those role players who aid and abet them. Accordingly, as a state party to the Genocide Convention, South Africa is obligated to prevent and punish genocide and as such cannot dismiss the warnings about the risk of mass slaughter in Kordofan. Mr. President, there can be no military solution to the conflict. Therefore, South Africa appeals to all parties to respect international law and calls for a ceasefire together with the flow of humanitarian aid. We acknowledge the various mediation initiatives that underscore the need for a coordinated effort on Sudan under the auspices of the AU and IGAD and welcome the efforts of the quintet similarly, all foreign interference and efforts to fragment Sudan must end. The flow of arms must stop and the guns must be silenced once and for all. I thank you. HRC · Chair [32:50]: Thank you, South Africa. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Tunisia. Tunisia [33:00]: Thank you, Vice President. We've listened to the update from the High Commissioner with interest and we've studied the Fact finding missionary report. This all shows that the Sudanese people are suffering. We stand in solidarity with the Sudanese people. We support the territorial integrity and unity and sovereignty of Sudan. We reject any attempts to intervene in the internal affairs of this country. We urge all parties to prioritize dialogue. We need to reach a consensual solution, Sudanese owned, inclusive for all. That is the best way towards peace in Sudan and to protect the interests of the Sudanese people. We support regional efforts and international efforts to reach a ceasefire reach and to prioritize dialogue so as to have a humanitarian process that allows the provision of humanitarian aid and that helps protect civilians. Civilians have endured so much. We commend the efforts of the Sudanese government which has cooperated with this Council and its mechanisms as well as with ohchr. We need to build on that cooperation to promote human rights so as to meet the expectations of the kindred Sudanese people. Thank you. HRC · Chair [34:23]: Thank you, Tunisia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Australia. Australia [34:30]: Thank you, Vice President. Australia thanks the High Commissioner and the Fact Finding Mission for their reports. We are deeply appalled by the Mission's report findings that war crimes and crimes against humanity were committed in effort in El fha. We are disturbed by continued reports of the atrocities, including in Kordofan. Australia continues to support all efforts to investigate the atrocities and ensure those responsible are held to account. Over 30 million people are in urgent need of assistance due to the ongoing conflict as Sudan faces the world's largest humanitarian and displacement crisis. Australia unequivocally condemns attacks on civilians, human humanitarian operations and critical infrastructure and urges an immediate end to violence. We call on all parties to uphold their obligations under international law, including to protect civilians and humanitarian workers, facilitate safe passage for those fleeing conflict affected areas and ensure unimpeded access to humanitarian assistance. A permanent cessation of hostilities is urgently needed. We ask how can the international community reinforce protection for civilians and humanitarian actors while supporting broader efforts to de escalate the conflict. Thank you. HRC · Chair [35:46]: Thank you, Australia. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Jordan. Jordan [35:54]: In the Name of God, Mr. Vice President, this Council meets again to listen to a briefing from the Fact Finding Mission and to conduct dialogue with the High Commissioner on developments in A brotherly country. The Sudan and its good people deserve peace and security like all nations in the world. However, the situation that we are aware of needs collective action that leads to containing the escalation, to halting for hostilities and to guarantee humanitarian assistance. Jordan's stance is very clear. Respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sudan is a noble principle. We must find a political track that reflects the will of the people, puts an end to violence, restores trust and paves the way for a better future. We hope that we can turn the page and of violence and a new dawn will rise that will allow the people of Sudan to achieve their aspirations. In conclusion, we thank the High Commissioner and his team. Thank you. HRC · Chair [37:18]: Thank you, Jordan. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iraq. Iraq [37:29]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Iraq has reviewed the report of the Fact Finding Mission on Sudan. In this context, we express our solidarity with the brotherly people of Sudan in its plight. This has escalated the suffering of civilians, especially women, children, the elderly and vulnerable populations. We renew our call to stop hostilities and grave violations of human rights in Al Fashar. These include displacement, sexual violence, extrajudicial executions, recruitment of children. We reaffirm the importance of a ceasefire and to work in a way that preserves the sovereignty and territorial integrity in Sudan. We must put an end to the violence, respecting the safety of its people and achieve stability in Sudan, which is a guarantee for peace and security in the whole region. Thank you. HRC · Chair [38:41]: Thank you, Iraq. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Libya. Libya [38:49]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. My delegation associates itself with the statements made on behalf of the groups we belong to. We express our solidarity with Sudan. We reaffirm the importance of the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sudan. Urgently, we must put an end to the hostilities and achieve humanitarian access. We call on our Sudanese partners to dialogue and cooperation to achieve sustainable peace and stability. We must preserve the Sudanese ownership of the political process. We call on the brotherly people of Sudan to stop violence and start a comprehensive peace process to find a way out of the current crisis. We appreciate the importance of humanitarian assistance and call on the international community to intensify these efforts. We commend Sudan for cooperating with the human rights mechanisms. We call on the international community to continue technical assistance and capacity building to Sudan. Thank you. HRC · Chair [40:08]: Thank you, Libya. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uganda. Uganda [40:18]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We take note of the report of the High Commissioner and the Fact Finding Mission for the Sudan. Uganda remains deeply concerned over the escalating violence, including the reported atrocities in Al Fasha in the brotherly country of Sudan. This continued conflict has tragically resulted in loss of innocent lives and displacement of millions of people, creating one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world today. In this regard, Uganda retaliates the following. First, we call for an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire fire in the Sudan to avert the already bad situation. Second, we call on all parties to the conflict to cooperate with the regional mechanisms, including the African Union Peace and Security Presidential Ad Hoc Committee under the leadership of His Excellency President Yuri Kagutumseveni of Uganda, and engage in an inclusive dialogue to restore peace, stability, constitutionalism and democracy in the country. Third, we call for continued humanitarian support to the Sudan and emphasize the urgent need for the parties to the conflict to ensure rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access throughout the Sudan. We recognize and appreciate the cooperation demonstrated by the Government of the Sudan with the Council and its mechanisms and encourage it to continue doing so. Given the nexus of peace, security and human rights. We call on the international community to support ongoing regional efforts for sustainable peace, security and development of the country. Finally, we implore the Council to prioritize dialogue and engagement with the Sudan as anything on the contrary is counterproductive. I thank you. HRC · Chair [41:54]: Thank you, Uganda. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal. Portugal [42:02]: Mr. Vice President. Portugal thanks the High Commission and the Fact Finding Mission for their comprehensive reports. Sudan is enduring a military catastrophe with millions of internally displaced persons, not refugees. Portugal strongly condemns the rapid support forces, takeover of Al Fashere and atrocities perpetrated against civilians. We are deeply concerned that both reports document mass killings, ethnically motivated violence, conflict related sexual violence, abductions, arbitrary detentions, torture and enforced disappearances. Portugal urges all parties to cease hostilities, comply fully with international humanitarian law and international human rights law and engage constructively in inclusive negotiations towards an immediate and lasting ceasefire. Humanitarian access must be rapid, safe and sustained. Civilians and humanitarian and medical personnel must be protected. Portugal reiterates its unwavering support for UN and regional accountability mechanisms and and calls for full cooperation, access, evidence preservation and protection for victims and witnesses. Dear members of the ffm, what practical measures could Member States take to prevent the pattern of atrocities documented in Al Fasher from being repeated in Cordofan and elsewhere in Sudan. HRC · Chair [43:24]: I thank you. Thank you, Portugal. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Rwanda. Rwanda [43:34]: Mr. Vice President. Rwanda underlines the urgent need for a cessation of hostilities and lasting ceasefire as peace is the foundation for the protection and enjoyment of human rights. In this regard, we commend the government of Stan for its peace Initiative announced in December 2025 aimed at advancing transitional justice, disarmament, reintegration, reparations and and an inclusive national dialogue as essential steps toward achieving durable peace and reconciliation. We underscore that any political process should press the protection of civilians, accountability for violations and the needs of the victims at its center. We also appreciate Sudanese facilitation of the High Commissioner's visit including access to civil society and survivors and philip to IDPU camps around Arifasha. We stress the importance of ensuring safe and unhindered humanitarian access to all civilians in need. Finally, we underscored the importance of fact based reporting as well as continued engagement with the country concerned to ensure that the Council's work contributes constructive to the effective follow up of recommendations. I thank you. HRC · Chair [44:52]: Thank you, Rwanda. Before I give the floor to the next speaker, I would like to recall that the duration of interactive dialogues is 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, if time permits, I will determine whether it is possible to allow additional delegations to speak. Yes. So the next speaker would be the distinguished representative of Germany. I give you the floor. Germany [45:31]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Mrs. Deputy High Commissioner. Germany thanks the High Commissioner, his designated expert and the FFM for their valuable work and their reports. Germany refers to the joint statement from the Foreign Ministers of the Sudan Core Group published online this morning and aligns itself with the EU statement. The human rights and humanitarian situation in Sudan remains highly alarming. The reports show in unadorned manner the shattering atrocities and gross violations of international human rights and humanitarian law committed by the Rapid Support forces and the Sudanese Armed forces and their respective allies. After almost three years of brutal war and the horrendous atrocities in Al Fasher committed by the rsf, civilians need significant improvements. Once more, Germany calls on all involved actors to meet their legal obligations and we urge those supplying arms or financial support to the warring parties to halt these efforts. To enable an end to the fighting. Germany reaffirms its unwavering commitment to accountability, justice and human rights in Sudan. Last year we increased our funding to 160 million Euro with an emphasis on survivors of sexual gender based violence. This year, together with France, the uk, the us, the EU and the African Union, Germany will host the third international Humanitarian Conference for Sudan, a key opportunity for the international community to strengthen the humanitarian response and the protection of civilians. Ms. Deputy High Commissioner, appreciated members of the FFM. What can the international community do to significantly improve the situation of civilians in Sudan? Thank you. HRC · Chair [47:10]: Thank you, Germany. I give the floor to the Distinguished representative of New Zealand. New Zealand [47:17]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The human rights situation in Sudan remains catastrophic. The recent reports of the FFM and High Commissioner are deeply concerning and warrant urgent attention from the international community. Community. New Zealand is gravely concerned by the ongoing disregard for international law, including reported war crimes against civilians. The international community must take action to ensure that the atrocities in Sudan come to an end. All parties, including states with influence, must act to prevent the continued spread of conflict into the central Kordofan regions. This is likely to exacerbate the dire humanitarian situation and bring further human rights violations and abuses against civilians. The supply of mercenaries and military equipment to militia groups must be stopped. Reports of further strikes on health facilities and humanitarian convoys are deeply disturbing. New Zealand calls on all parties to end attacks on critical civilian infrastructure. Humanitarian access must be enabled to ensure the safe and unimpeded delivery of life saving humanitarian aid. New Zealand continues to urge all parties and international partners to intensify diplomatic efforts to halt the fighting and prevent the further spread of violence. We ask how can the international community continue to come together to ensure an end to the human rights violations and abuses of the Sudanese people and that perpetrators are held to account. Thank you. HRC · Chair [48:50]: Thank you, New Zealand. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Turkey. Türkiye [48:59]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We remain concerned regarding the ongoing conflict and the grave humanitarian situation in Sudan. We reaffirm our support for Sudan's unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity which we consider very important for the stability of Sudan and the wider region. There is no military solution to this conflict. Only an inclusive and credible political process can bring sustainable peace. We support regional and international efforts aiming to resolve the conflict. However, outcome cannot be achieved without Sudan owned and Sudan led dialogue. The humanitarian situation in Sudan is not only deteriorating, it is catastrophic. A profound human tragedy is unfolding before the eyes of the international community. What occurred in Al Fasher is a dire example of these consequences. We are deeply saddened by the constant attacks on civilians in violation of humanitarian law. Mr. Vice President, Turkey will keep providing humanitarian aid to ease the suffering of the Sudanese people. Since the summer 2024, Turkey has sent nine ships carrying more than 12,000 tons of aid and 30,000 tanks. Turkey will continue to work actively and constructively with partners to help restore peace and stability without delay. Thank you. HRC · Chair [50:33]: Thank you, Turkey. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan. Japan [50:40]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We thank the High Commissioner and the Fact Finding Mission for their respective reports. And we express our appreciation for the work of the Designated Expert on the ffm. Japan remains Deeply concerned by the catastrophic human rights situation in Sudan where the conflict is now approaching its fourth year. Japan is particularly alarmed by reports of continued attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools and places of worship. The protection of civilians and civilian objects is a fundamental obligation under international law. Japan reiterates its call on all parties to the conflict to immediately cease hostilities, respect human rights, commit to an immediate and permanent ceasefire and ensure rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian assistance. We express our support for diplomatic efforts underway to restore peace and security in Sudan and call upon the international community to contribute to that end. Japan remains committed to working with the international community, including through the work of its special envoy for the Horn of Africa, to support Sudanese efforts towards an orderly transition to civilian rule. I thank you. HRC · Chair [52:03]: Thank you, Japan. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of France. France [52:13]: Thank you, Vice President, Deputy High Commissioner. Dear members of the Fact Finding Mission, thank you for your report. The magnitude of the human rights violations that you have documented are horrifying. France reiterates the solidarity with the Sudanese population and have been living through an ordeal more than three years caught on the vise of clashes between Sudanese armed forces, the Rapid support forces and armed groups that support them. It is the victims of an absolute disregard for humanity and the loyal parties of the conflict. Civilians are deliberately targeted as subjects to atrocities, massacres, summary executions, sexual violence, torture, detention, forced disappearance, ethnic violence, recruitment and use of children. The humanitarian crisis is reaching new heights. France is alarmed by the ongoing escalation in Kordofon with the risk of similar massacres as described by the High Commissioner. The justice must be brought to the Sudanese in violation of international law committed by the RSF which may amount to crimes of war and crimes against humanity cannot go unpunished. The perpetrators of the ethnic motivated atrocities committed in El F Foster must be brought to justice. France calls for full cooperation with international justice mechanisms. It supports in particular the extension of the ICC's mandate to the entire Sudanese territory. It also calls on parties to cooperate with the OHCHR and the Fact Finding Mission. We urge parties to ensure safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access to all territory and the safety of humanitarian personnel. We urge Sudanese armed forces and the Rapid support forces to urgently implement the humanitarian truce proposed by the Quad. HRC · Chair [53:50]: I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Romania. Romania [53:57]: Mr. Vice President. Romania aligns itself with the EU statement. We thank the High Commissioner, the Fact Finding Mission and the Designated Expert for their constant warning, alarms and valuable works in documenting and investigating grave human rights violations occurring during this conflict. We reaffirm our strong support for their critical mandates and for all regional and international coordinated efforts in putting an end to this appalling violence. The findings of deliberate attacks against civilians and communities of systematic violence, mass killings, widespread rape and sexual violence, abductions, tortures, arbitrary detentions, enforced disappearances and starvation tactics are disheartening. We strongly condemn these brutal acts, as well as the destruction of food system, water infrastructure, medical facilities and humanitarian supplies, leading to starvation, disease and death. We deplore the severe physical and psychological trauma caused to survivors, as so by the massive forced displacement, family separation and dehumanizing rhetoric. Romania joined the calls for urgent action to stop the war, protect civilians, provide humanitarian aid, ensure respect for arms embargo, hold those responsible for all violations committed across Sudan, including in Al Fasha, to account and prevent atrocities. We ask what is the most urgent measure the international community should take to ensure effective prevention of further escalation and atrocities? Thank you. HRC · Chair [55:21]: Thank you, Romania. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Senegal. Senegal [55:28]: Merci beaucoup, monsieur. Thank you, Mr. President. Senegal aligns itself with a statement made by the Afrin Group Group and we thank the Fact Finding Mission and the High Commissioner for the presentation of the report on Sudan. The deterioration of the humanitarian situation described in these reports, particularly in and around El Shaafer Fasr remains a matter of serious concern. Sena regrets the heavy human toil, the massive displacement of populations and the destruction of civilian infrastructure. Reiterating our solidarity with the Sudanese people, my country reaffirms its commitment to a peaceful resolution to the conflict in order to pave the way to stability and prosperity in Sudan. We encourage the various Sudanese parties to cooperate in good faith in order to achieve an immediate and definitive cessation of hostilities, to ensure respect for international human rights law and international humanitarian law, and to facilitate the full, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance, in particular to the most vulnerable areas. At the same time, it is crucial that the international community take urgent measures to prevent any development that could lead to a worsening of the situation on the ground. Finally, Senegal calls on all stakeholders, national and regional, to continue their collaboration with the OACHR in order to continue to find a peaceful solution to the conflict. Thank you. HRC · Chair [56:57]: Thank you, Senegal. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belgium. Belgium [57:07]: Thank you, Vice President. Belgium aligns itself with the EU statement. We're deeply alarmed by the findings presented in your reports. The documented mass killings of the RSF during and after the siege of El F, widespread sexual violence, deliberate starvation tactics and ethnic Targeting offensive communities might constitute the gravest crimes under international law. These crimes take place in a context of worsening humanitarian situation across Sudan, including shrinking civic space, food insecurity reaching famine levels and the collapse of essential services. Millions remain displaced and deprived of humanitarian access. We strongly condemn the targeting of children by all parties to the conflict, including through forced recruitment as well as extrajudicial killings and the nationwide pattern of death sentences being issued without fair trial standards. We reiterate our call for full accountability for all perpetrators and for justice and redress to reach victims and survivors. We emphasize the need for the FFM to have access to the territory. We call upon all parties and all UN member states to refrain from providing any support that could sustain the conflict and cooperate with. Fully cooperate fully with international investigative and judicial mechanisms, including the icc, whose mandate should be extended to cover the entire country. Moreover, unimpeded humanitarian access must be immediately granted. Thank you. HRC · Chair [58:27]: Thank you, Belgium. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Greece. Greece [58:34]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Greece aligns with the EU statement and thanks the High Commissioner and the fact finding mission for their reports. The findings are deeply alarming and attest to persistent and grave human rights violations. We condemn the continued attacks against civilians, including humanitarian and health workers, as well as civilian infrastructure. We are particularly alarmed by the recruitment and exploitation of children, the deliberate and arbitrary deprivation of life, conflict related sexual violence, arbitrary arrests and determines tension and the documented pattern of enforced disappearances. We are profoundly concerned by the appalling crimes committed during the siege and takeover of Hel Fascia and the escalating violence in Kordofan. Especially alarming are the documented patterns marked by coordination, repetition and identity based targeting on the grounds of ethnicity, gender and perceived political affiliation that indicate a path to genocide and point to a trajectory that risks further atrocity crimes. We call on all parties to immediately cease hostilities, ensure the protection of civilians and guarantee full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access, including through effective humanitarian corridors. We reiterate our call on all third actors to halt the transfer of weapons and fighters into Sudan. The international community must act decisively to end this crisis and ensure accountability for those responsible for serious violations and atrocity crimes. I thank you. HRC · Chair [1:00:07]: Thank you, Greece. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria. Algeria [1:00:15]: Thank you, Vice President. Algeria thanks the High Commissioner for Human Rights for his briefing and commands his latest visit to Sudan which has shed light on the gravity violation and the atrocities perpetrated by RSF militias. Algeria commands the ongoing cooperation between the government of Sudan and the High Commissioner's office and we take note of the report of the ffm. Algeria renews its unequivocal condemnation of the wide ranging atrocities against civilians in Al Fasher and Kordofan and the continued attacks on humanitarian convoys and medical facilities. And we firmly reject any attempts to divide Sudan or undermine its stability. And this includes any foreign interventions that contribute to fueling the conflict and increasing the suffering of the brotherly people of Sudan. Algeria affirms its support for the call by the African Union's Peace and Security Council for a humanitarian pause and an immediate ceasefire led by Sudan in order to reach a consensus based and sustainable solution that fulfills the aspirations of the Sudanese people for security, stability and dignified living. Algeria stresses that there is no such thing as a sustainable military solution. Mr. Vice President, given the budget crisis, Algeria underlines the importance of relying on HRC mechanisms that have the capacity to deliver and engage on the field while ensuring accountability and the delivery of justice. Thank you, Vice President. HRC · Chair [1:01:50]: Thank you, Algeria. As indicated, additional delegations will be able to speak with this understanding. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia. Indonesia [1:02:07]: Mr. Vice President. Indonesia takes note of the report of the High Commissioner and the findings of the IIFFM on the situation in Sudan, particularly in Al Fasher. We are deeply alarmed by the grave violations documented, including mass killings, widespread sexual violence, forced displacement and the deliberate deprivation of food, water and medical assistance. Indonesia is particularly concerned by findings indicating patterns of ethnically targeted violence and conditions that may point to a risk of genocide. The reported siege tactics, obstruction of humanitarian assistance and attacks against civilians, including women and children, reflect a situation of extreme urgency that cannot be ignored. These developments underscore the need for full compliance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law, including the protection of civilians and civilian objects. Indonesia stresses that accountability must be ensured, including for those responsible for serious violations and international crimes. In this regard, we wish to ask what practical steps can be taken to follow up the findings in of the IIFFM to ensure accountability for the grave violation occurring in Al Pashe, strengthen civilian protection and facilitate unhindered humanitarian access in Sudan. Thank you. HRC · Chair [1:03:27]: Thank you, Indonesia. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malta. Malta [1:03:33]: Thank you. Vice President Malt aligns itself with a statement by the European Union and thanks the High Commissioner, the designated experts and the FFM for their report. We remain deeply concerned by the ongoing violence in Sudan and by reports that even more severe atrocities may occur in the Kadoukli Diling and the wider Cordofan region. We deplore that sexual violence against women and girls has been systematically used as a weapon of war since the start of the conflict. Malta appeals to the RSF and the SAF to cease the intolerable attacks against civilian objects and infrastructure and to ensure safe, rapid and unimpeded access for the delivery of humanitarian aid. In line with international humanitarian law. We call for the strengthening of resilience against divisive ideologies and hate speech and for the protection of civic space by supporting civil society, human rights defenders and journalists and empowering religious and community leaders to promote peaceful dialogue. Finally, we call on all parties to the conflict to immediately cease hostilities, engage in good faith in ceasefire efforts and to halt and prevent further violations against civilians. Thank you, Vice President. HRC · Chair [1:04:47]: Thank you, Malta. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belarus. Belarus [1:04:55]: Thank you, Vice President. The armed crisis in Sudan is in the spotlight of many UN bodies, including of the Security Council and the humanitarian agencies. We hope that discussions and decisions can help improve the plight of the population of the country. Since the humanitarian situation in Sudan remains very difficult, we are convinced that a key condition for ending the suffering of civilians is stopping the armed confrontation. Without achieving that, ensuring effective protection for the population is impossible. We think it's important for the UN human rights system to act strictly in the context of a mandate acceptable to the government and be guided by the determination of the Sudanese to constructively cooperate with OHCHRP and not start developing additional mechanisms for ulterior motives and for interfering in the internal affairs of a sovereign country. We confirm our solidarity with the people of Sudan. Only on the basis of dialogue can we pave the way for peace, prosperity and universal compliance with the human rights of the Sudanese people. Thank you. Thank you, Belarus. HRC · Chair [1:06:07]: I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Luxembourg. Luxembourg [1:06:15]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Luxembourg associates itself with a statement made by the eu. We would like to thank the High Commissioner and the fact finding mission for their valuable reports. The report illustrates how Al Fasher the rapid support forces have for months suffocated and terrorized the city flouting all rules of international humanitarian law, whether through through large scale massacres, the destruction of civilian infrastructure, the use of famine as a weapon of war or the recruitment of children. The cruelest sexual violence has been and I quote, normalized by the perpetrators of the crimes. Finally, the report establishes that acts of genocide targeting non Arab populations have been committed. This assessment in Al Fashur is not unique. It is seen across large parts of the country and confronted with these horrors we read our call for the protection of humanitarian aid, attestation of Hostilities and the negotiation of lasting, inclusive peace after three years of war. Let us remember the three demands made by the Sudanese people in 2019 freedom, peace and justice. How can we ensure that these calls from the population do not go unheeded and are finally heard? HRC · Chair [1:07:28]: Thank you. Thank you, Luxembourg. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of North Macedonia. North Macedonia [1:07:37]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. North Macedonia welcomes the update by the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Fact Finding Mission for the Sudan. The findings of both reports are deeply alarming. We are gravely concerned by documented cases of escalating violence, in particular mass killings and related atrocities surrounding the fall of al Fasher in October 2025. We have consistently raised alarm of the extreme brutality and profound trauma inflicted upon the civilian population, including summary execution, sexual violence, abduction from ransom and cruel treatment that have left civilians without food, health care or other essential services. Such patterns of conduct may constitute serious violation of international law, including war crimes and crimes against humanity. North Macedonia calls for immediate and unrestricted delivery of humanitarian assistance into Al Fashir, a succession of hostilities imperative to prevent further bloodshed and to ensure the protection of civilians. We encourage the Office in continuing with its important work on documenting violation and preservation of evidence. We also reiterate the calls of the FFM and the High Commissioner for full accountability of all parties responsible for gross violation of international humanitarian and human rights law as an essential step towards achieving lasting peace and transitional justice in Sudan. Thank you. Vice-President [1:09:00]: Thank you, North Macedonia. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Poland. Poland [1:09:07]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Poland align itself with the EU statement. We thank High Commissioner and the independent International Fact Finding Mission for their comprehensive reports. Civilian deaths, widespread sexual violence, arbitrary detention and mass death sentence reflect a pattern of serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law. Particularly alarming are attacks against hospitals, schools and humanitarian convoys, as well as deliberate obstruction of aid. The fact finding missions assessment that atrocities committed in and around El Fahshere build hallmark of genocide, including killings, ethnically targeted rape and deliberate infliction of conditions of life calculated to bring about the physical destruction of specific ethnic communities as identified in the report warns the most serious consideration. Accountability must be central to any response. Perpetrators and those who aid and abet them must be held accountable in line with international law, including through cooperation with International Criminal Court and strengthened enforcement of the arms embargo. Finally, we would be grateful to learn from the expert what immediate practical and preventive measures can Member States take collectively to reduce the risk of further atrocity crimes. I thank you. HRC · Chair [1:10:37]: Thank you, Poland. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Bolivaran Republic of Venezuela. Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) [1:10:48]: Gracias, senor. Thank you, President. Venezuela recognizes the complexity of the situation in Sudan. We urge good faith efforts to be supported in the quest for a lasting peace and for the sustainable development of its people. Adopting a non depoliticized approach, strictly abiding by international human rights law, respecting sovereignty and non interference in the domestic affairs of states. Along those lines, we believe that the imposition of mandates does nothing to address the needs of the Sudanese people. On the contrary, such actions can only generate greater internal tensions, using up resources that will not have a genuinely positive impact. Venezuela will continue to advocate for the relevance of the human rights of the population and supports efforts towards peace and national reconciliation in Sudan, underlining that political dialogue is the essential means to resolve differences in the country. Thank you. HRC · Chair [1:11:59]: Thank you, Venezuela. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malaysia. Malaysia [1:12:06]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Malaysia associates itself with a statement of the oic. Malaysia thanks the High Commissioner for his report on the human rights situation in Sudan. The ongoing conflict in Sudan and the continuing deterioration of the humanitarian and human rights situations across the country are deeply concerning. The prolonged violence takes the greatest toll on civilians. Widespread displacement, food insecurity and disruption of essential services are only worsening day by day. Malaysia reiterates its call on all parties to immediately cease hostilities and to fully comply with the obligations under the international law. Civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected. Humanitarian assistance must reach all affected populations safely, rapidly and without obstruction. Militia further reaffirms its long standing position that there is no military solution to the conflict. All parties must return to dialogue and support regional and international efforts towards a lasting ceasefire and peaceful political solution. We remain in solidarity with the people of Sudan and reiterate its support for efforts aimed at restoring peace, stability and security throughout the country. Thank you. HRC · Chair [1:13:14]: Thank you, Malaysia. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ghana. Ghana [1:13:20]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Ghana aligns with the statement of the African group. We thank the International Fact Finding Mission and the High Commissioner for their comprehensive update of the human rights situation in the Sudan. Ghana remains deeply concerned about a systematic, widespread and worrying human rights violation in Sudan and reiterate our call for a prompt restoration of normalcy. We are alarmed and appalled by the reported mass killings and related atrocities cross crimes committed by the RSF in the country. Mr. President, Ghana Family condemns all reported atrocities and urges both the Sudanese armed forces and RSF to engage constructively in good faith peace negotiations and mediation efforts with a view to securing an immediate cessation of hostilities. We further call on all parties to take meaningful steps to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people and to ensure that NEP process reflects and advances their legitimate aspirations for justice, stability and prosperity. Finally, we urge the Office of the High Commissioner and the Fact Finding Mission to continue to work closely together to provide the needed technical and capacity support to strengthen Sudan justice institutions and help advance accountability measures. I thank you. HRC · Chair [1:14:43]: Thank you, Guyana. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Human Rights Council should sincerely engage in constructive dialogue and cooperation when addressing the human rights issues in the country concerned, while refraining from any biased and Democratic People's Republic of Korea [1:15:04]: politicized approach, including attempted interference in the internal affairs or exerting pressure under the pretext of human rights. Any approach that lacks the consent and cooperation of the country concerned cannot bring about positive development and only serves to undermine the credibility of the Council. The DPRK underscores the importance of giving priority to existing national and regional mechanisms in resolving crises. The expansion of initiatives by external parties is counterproductive and does not contribute to genuine progress. We reaffirm our principled commitment to respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, independence and political unity of Sudan, as well as the importance of dialogue, cooperation and in the promotion and protection of human rights. We therefore urge the HRC to encourage genuine dialogue and cooperation with the state, to carry out its work strictly in an objective, in impartial manner, and to firmly stand against politicization and selectivity. I thank you. HRC · Chair [1:16:09]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Sudan who wished to use their speaking time in two parts. You have two minutes remaining. Sudan [1:16:34]: Thank you. Vice President. I want to stress three points. We listened to what the High Commissioner said. He said that the ceasefire should be throughout the country. I should apply throughout the country. So we wonder, what has the United nations done about the government in Abu Dhabi which continues to provide weapons to the militia? We're trying to equally deal with the Sudanese army and the rsf. And this despite all the massacres committed by those forces. As for the ICC and its authority over the whole territory, we can say that Sudan is not a party to the statute of this court. There is an agreement to cooperate so as to reach justice. We listen to what was said by the representative of Abu Dhabi. He made out that he was a humanitarian actor. What we ask of Abu Dhabi is that to recognize that you are involved in that war, you should put an end to your support to that militia by giving them, providing them weapons and mercenaries. You need to shoulder your responsibilities. Thank you. HRC · Chair [1:18:04]: Thank you. We shall now turn to the list of speakers for national human rights institutions and non governmental organizations. Accordingly, I give the floor to the east and Horn of Africa Human Rights Defenders project. East and Horn of Africa Human Rights Defenders Project [1:18:23]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. All eyes should be on the world's largest crisis, Sudan. We urge States presence here to act on three fronts. First, civilian protection, pressing parties to halt attacks and allow unimbedded humanitarian access. Secondly, constrain on abusers enforcing the Darfur arms embargo and imposing sanctions on commanders and financiers on all sides. Third, accountability supporting resourcing of the ffm. We thank all stakeholders for the report present today. Pattern documented. In particular finding of the hallmarks of genocide against the non Arab communities. Stain on the conscience of humankind. We welcome the High Commissioner's work and stress the distinct value of each mechanisms on Sudan. With this in mind, we encourage complementarity to avoid both duplication and the reporting gaps. We thank FFM for its work despite grave limitations. We encourage it to address command responsibility and arms supply chain and continue reporting on ethnic targeting. This is crucial as what we saw in Darfur could happen in Kordofan and Blue Nile. We encourage finally the OHCR and its office. We now. HRC · Chair [1:20:01]: I now give the floor to Matt for Peace Development and Human Rights association intervention by video. Maat for Peace, Development and Human Rights [1:20:13]: Thank you, President. We agree was what the contents of the report that attacks including using drones guided by the RSF against Al Fasher left many victims. The crimes perpetrated by the RSF show hallmarks of war crimes. This is what the High Commissioner said. Those crimes led to the deaths of 4,000 people between November 2025 and end of January 26 without there being any accountability. We know that there are foreign forces and third states intervening in Sudan which exacerbates the commission of those crimes. We have a neighboring country that has established a camp to train RSF militia. There's a country further away that provides financial and logistics support and mercenaries. It is time to impose sanctions on the chiefs the heads of the RSF that were involved in the massacres against civilians in Fasr Kordofan and elsewhere. There is a need to call the members of this council should remind the African Union to allow it to reintegrate because the participation of the Sudan in the African Union has been suspended. HRC · Chair [1:21:44]: Thank you. Thank you. I now give the floor to Committee for Justice. Committee for Justice [1:21:57]: Mr. President, this is a joint statement between the Committee for Justice and awafy. We thank the fact finding mission and we thank the High Commissioner. Nearly three years into the conference Civilians in Sudan have become deliberate targets of violence and collective punishment. Over 7 million people are IDPs and the total number of displaced exceeds 11.7 million. We recently documented the killing of 22 civilians including 4 medical staff during attacks on a hospital. This reflects deliberate targeting of protecting civilian objects. In Al Fasher and in Darfur, we documented extrajudicial killings and identity based targeting. We have also documented the abduction of children Darfur who were subjected to forced labor and extortion and detention of 97 men. This amounts to to war crimes. Sexual and gender based violence continues to be used as a weapon of war. Arbitrary detention, torture and forced disappearance. Indiscriminately serial bombardment persist in an environment of impunity. We urge on protecting civilians first and foremost. HRC · Chair [1:23:28]: Thank you. I now give the floor to legal action worldwide. Legal Action Worldwide [1:23:37]: Mr. President. Your Excellencies. Legal action worldwide supports a fact finding missions report. We speak today for the survivors of Al Fasher who endured over 500 days of siege and systematic sexual violence in Al Fashr. Rape, sexualized enslavement and ethnic targeting were used strategically to destroy community bones. One survivor of rape told us the RSF entered our house and raped us in front of our parents. I became pregnant and had an abortion in my second month. Our investigations reveal that foreign arms, ammunition and drone systems specifically linked to the UAE and third State transit routes significantly enabled these RSF operations. States must not authorize arms transfers where there is an overriding risk of international law violations. Under the duty to prevent genocide. State responsibility arises once a serious risk is known. Despite clear warnings, these supplies continue. We urge this Council to call on States to immediately suspend such transfers. Mr. President, in light of the evidence before you, what concrete steps will the Council take to ensure that States that armed and enabled the siege of Al Fashr are identified and held to account and that no further transfers proceed where the risk of atrocity crimes is credible and overwhelming. Thank you, Mr. President. HRC · Chair [1:25:00]: Thank you. I give the floor to Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa. Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa [1:25:09]: Thank you, Mr. President. The situation in Sudan is drastically deteriorating by the day. The capture of Al Fashir by the RSF and now the events in Kudofan mark an expansion of the conflict. There are no clear protection strategies in place for civilians. Additionally, there is genocidal intent shown through the mass killing of native African communities in Al Fashir by the rsf as acknowledged by the Fact Finding Mission report. In its latest report, SIHA Network has documented over 1,294 cases of CRSV against Women and GIRLS Thousands of women and girls are being abducted and forcibly disappeared in RSF detention centers, hidden across the country, forced into sexual slavery. We have also documented over 840 women detained by SAR for collaborating with the RSF. Women are also constantly being policed for pressuring morality laws in Sudan. Mr. President, we call on this council to demand an immediate cessation of hostilities and the targeting of civilians through the starvation and sexual violence. Renew the critical mandate of the fact finding mission. Specific capacity on CRSV and the need to promote greater dialogue with civil society and survivors. Push the ICC to prioritize investigations into the RSF and allied militias conduct in Al Fashir. Advocate for support to Sudanese women organizations and grassroots lawyers providing services to survivors. And urged for the establishment of a protection mission for civilians, especially in Darfur. Once more, we cannot let the impact of this crisis escape from view. We must act now to protect and defend. Thank you, people. Speaker 92 [1:26:43]: I give the floor to Allianz International pour la defense de drois et deliberate. Sorry for my pronunciation. AIDL (International Alliance for the Defense of Rights and Freedoms) [1:26:55]: On behalf of the International alliance for the Defense of Rights and Freedoms IDLE and the IDLE International foundation, we thank the office of Thai Commissioner for the oral briefing on the station in and around Al Fashar and for its continued monitoring and documentation. The findings of the independent International Fine Finding Mission on Sudan places console before urgent legal facts requiring immediate or operational action. These findings prove the elements of war crimes currency against humanity and the intent of genocide under the Convention of the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide with direct relevance to the deities to prevent and to punish. We therefore call for three guarantees against the starvation of civilians and against use of siege as a method of warfare. We call for preventive measures to end any material logistics support that may enable the commission of crime of genocide. We call for control of armed flows and tracing of supplies and chains. Consequences for the terrorist organization that sustains its criminal combat capacity. We retreat the need to activate international justice through the existing jurisdictions of the ICC over the afarfore pursuing the Security Council Resolution 1593 of 2005. We also ask for the implementation of the UN Global Counterterrorism Strategy in Sudan. Not as of a political choice, but an obligation by the Human Rights Council. I thank you, Mr. Vice President. Thank you. Speaker 94 [1:28:25]: I give the floor to El Zika Relief foundation via intervention by video. El Zika Relief Foundation [1:28:35]: Thank you, President. The RSF continues to perpetrate the most odious violations against civilians. The latest atrocity documented by ILISCA took place on 6th January 2026 with 13 civilians were killed during attack against the residential neighborhood of Al Jalabiya in Northern Kordofan on 12 January 2026. 27 more people were killed during drone attacks against the town of Sinja in Senar State. Sir. The facts collected by ILISCA point to appalling atrocities. Besides the High Commissioner's report noting a summary execution of about 600 people, including 50 children inside the El Fa University compound, other testimonies point to additional massacres and war crimes. Armed men of this militia force continue to try to conceal their crimes. As a result, ELISA calls on the High Commissioner to condemn the unprecedented grave violations committed against civilians by the RSF militia. We also call on the UN mechanisms in the field of human rights, including the Fact Finding Mission to prioritize documentation and reporting of war crimes committed by the militia with the assistance of states that provide them direct support. Thank you. Speaker 96 [1:30:04]: Thank you. I now give the floor to Centre du Commerce International Pourle Development. Centre du Commerce International pour le Développement [1:30:16]: Thank you, President. The human rights situation in South Sudan has worsened drastically. Warnings from civil society in 2025 have not just been confirmed, rather they've intensified at an alarming level. Multiple crises ravage the country with a now trivialization of atrocities, systematic violence and grave crimes. Civilians are pay the price for progressive collapse of rule of law. Violations of international humanitarian law are no longer isolated practices, but recurring. The spiral of impunity fuels a climate of fear, tyranny and terror. The country is now falling into a crisis where human dignity is every day further trampled upon. At the start of 2026, more than 100,000 people were displaced in Zhongle State. The security forces have been accused of mass arrests, forced enrollment and grave atrocities against civilians, making one fear a return to a widespread war. We condemn the hostage taking of civilians as well as the impunity that the main perpetrators enjoy. They must be brought to account before the tribunals for war crimes, crimes against humanity and mass human rights violations and violations of ihl. We call for an immediate ceasefire and a stop to bombing of civilian areas and opening humanitarian corridors for emergency access for healthcare personnel and to help with the IDPs. Thank you. Thank you. HRC · Chair [1:31:41]: I give the floor to. It's going to be Joint statement Lawyers for Lawyers Co Sponsors Lawyers Rights Watch Canada International Bar association intervention by video Mr. President, lawyers for Lawyers, the International Bar Association's Human Rights Institute and Lawyers Rights Canada thanked the independent International Fact Finding Mission and the High Commissioner for their reports. The findings confirm not only the brutal and systematic targeting of civilians, but also the progressive dismantling of Sudan's justice system by both parties to the conflict. Lawyers representing individuals accused of links to the rapid support forces or belonging to marginalized ethnic groups are at increased risk. Lawyers for Lawyers (joint with IBAHRI & LRWC) [1:32:20]: Since April 2023, at least 16 lawyers in Sudan have reportedly been killed and dozens more forcibly disappeared, arbitrarily detained or prosecuted in connection with the professional activities, forcing some into hiding or exile. Reports also indicate raids on law offices, confiscation of privileged materials and restricted access to clients in prison. This year alone, at least 31 lawyers were reportedly suspended or disbarred by disciplinary bodies lacking a recognized legal mandate. These practices severely undermine independence of the legal profession, fair trial rights and access to justice. With the number of practicing lawyers having decreased in several regions, we urge the Council to respond robustly to the ever worsening situation in Sudan, continue monitoring the situation of lawyers and ensure the International Fact Finding Mission is able to continue its work in Sudan effectively in advance of accountability. Thank you. HRC · Chair [1:33:12]: Thank you. I now give the floor to RADO RADO [1:33:20]: Vice President. Rado commends the efforts of the International Independent Fact Finding Mission for the violations in Al Fash and takes into account its recommendations. We have failed the Sudanese people. Rado takes note of a recent summit of the African Union Peace and Security Council on fighting violent extremism and terrorism. RADO holds responsible for atrocities and war crimes both parties to the conflict. It demands respect for the Jeddah Declaration as well as protection of of civilians in line with international humanitarian law and international law Organization expresses profound concern at the scale of the famine and the tragic food insecurity caused by the conflict in several regions. We urge all parties to the conflict to authorize and facilitate safe, unlimited humanitarian access. We condemn strenuously the use of famine as a weapon of war and continued sexual violations such as mass rapes. Rado supports Sudanese local actors who fight impunity and protect the victims in spite of the threats. In conclusion, RADO urges all member states to refrain from any foreign interference that would seek to stir up further conflict and further deteriorate the human rights situation. Moreover, we call for immediate ceasefire leading to an inclusive transition to realize the aspirations of the Sudanese people of a stable, prosperous, peaceful future. Thank you. HRC · Chair [1:34:50]: Thank you. This was the last speaker we could accommodate for this dialogue. I now give the floor to our presenters for their concluding remarks. Mr. Monim Adam, you have the floor. Presenter · Monim Adam [1:35:08]: Thank you, Vice President. And thank you, distinguished delegates, for all the interventions. Since 2023, millions of Sudanese children have not been to school. There is no education in Darfur and larger Kurdofan. This deeply concerning the reality pertains the uncertain future for these children and their families in Darfur as well and large. Yokordofan. There is no Internet and there is no electricity since the war broke out in Darfur and there is no functioning system. The international community must support all effort in the line of humanitarian support in order to enhance the human rights situation in those both areas and across other areas in Sudan. There is no military solution to this conflict. The clear evidence today shows that the militias being created or supported by warring parties in Sudan soon will be uncontrollable. And that will make it difficult to create or to intervene to initiate peace initiatives for Sudan. Historical impunity for atrocities happened since 2004 and in fact historical factors since the independence of Sudan that one of the main reasons for committing atrocities, including the one in Al Fashir and other places in this conflict happening in different places in Sudan. The effective influence directly imposing or applying pressure from different states using diplomatic missions to the supporters of warring parties to this conflict. I think that is one of the main reasons in order to support any effort to influence stopping this conflict. Otherwise the neighboring countries and the regional supporters for warring parties will continue. And all the time Malaysians allied in Sudan will find ways to carry weapons. This conflict has one of the main element that's going to escalate destabilizing the entire region. And one of the main reasons and to see that is actually the closure of Chadian border with Sudan due to the conflict escalating entering Chad several times and now since last week Chad disclosed Chad sorry closed its borders with Sudan. And this is one of the signs that shows this conflict is going to spread across the region. If it's not going to be stopped soon. Supporting effort to accountability for these atrocities happening in Sudan is the main reason that this atrocities is not going to be repeated for the Sudan. I thank you. HRC · Chair [1:38:03]: Thank you. Mr. Radwan Neusa, you have the floor. Presenter · Radwan Neusa [1:38:10]: Thank you, Mr. Chair, Deputy High Commissioner, distinguished delegates. Nearly three years after the outbreak of the Sudan's devastating conflict, the country continues to endure profound destruction that has created deep ruptures in the collective consciousness of all. Sudanese communities have been torn apart, social infrastructure ruined, millions of children deprived of education and civilians subjected to alarming level of violence. Including gender based violence, diseases, famine, looting, abduction and insecurity. All these have multiplied, eroding the most basic right, the right to life and physical integrity. These wounds will be difficult to heal. Sudan's future stability depends on a transparent, impartial and victim centered accountability. The end of entrenched impunity and inclusive political process. Process that restores civilian governance, women and youth and other marginalized groups must be meaningfully included in reconciliation efforts. Without this, any future peace will remain fragile. Testimony gathered by the High Commissioner during his recent visit to Sudan confirmed the scale of violations documented by his office. Atrocities committed by the rapid support forces, including attacks on civilians, have been especially shocking. As the High Commission stated, the RSF's action in Al Fashr constitutes war crimes and likely crimes against humanity. Mr. Chair. External involvement is also worsening the crisis. Despite claims of neutrality, foreign support is prolonging the conflict and advancing strategic interests and related to the right and well being of Sudan's people. The flow of weapon funds and even troops is fueling regional instability. And the international community, particularly most influential actors, has a moral, historical and legal responsibility to articulate a collective and coherent path towards ending this tragedy and to exert maximum pressure for peace. As the Islamic world marks the holy month of Ramadan, this moment offers a good opportunity for a humanitarian pose and renewed political engagement. Only a peace process rooted in the rights in the protection and participation of civilians can bring Sudan back from the brink. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you, Mr. Mohammed Chandi Othman, you have the floor. HRC · Chair [1:42:28]: Microphone. FFM · Presenter · Mohammed Chandi Othman [1:42:31]: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. I thank the Council for its November resolution that gave us additional impetus to deep dive into El Fascia and on earth heinous dimensions unseen Genocidal MARQUEST Amidst other violations of international humanitarian law and human rights abuses, it is important to reiterate that our work is not done either in El Fashion Greater Sudan or the whole of Sudan and in particular now. Cordova with all the warning signs staring us in the face as we speak in this room, no clear statistics of the total number of those who were killed, detained or disappeared. The work of FFM Sudan is not done. The work of the Council and the international community is far from being done. The international community must act now and fast to bring the warring parties to end this atrocious war against civilians. The AU and the UN must take center stage with its members to ensure accountability and address the root causes of cycle of conflict in Sudan that goes unpunished, unredressed and no reparation to address the injustices of yesterdays of today. FM Sudan aligns itself to call for accountability. Perpetrators must be held accountable. I urge solidarity with the people of Sudan and I mean Sudanese civilians, not the wearing parties. Prepare this command council for effectiveness steps if the warring parties refused calls for ceasefire. Finally, I want to call attention to our recommendations. First, to protect civilians and prevent atrocities, including enforcing and expanding the arms embargo. Secondly, to secure unrestricted humanitarian access to El Fascia and guarantee free movement for the remaining population there. To support survivors, including interim reparation measures to thousands of survivors of sexual and gender based violence. To have access to medical, psychosocial and assistance. Unarguably, the scale, severity and cumulative patterns of this act by RSF falls within the spectrum of genocide. Time is now for this Council and the international community to act decisively. Thank you. FFM · Presenter [1:45:15]: Thank you very much, Mr. President. This dialogue demonstrates the complementarity of the efforts by the High Commissioner, the designated expert and the Faculty finding mission. We together provide a mutually reinforcing framework of monitoring, support, documentation and accountability in light of our grave findings. In particular indications pointing to genocide by the RSF in and around Al Fashr and to prevent further atrocities, including in Kurdofan. I would like to underscore the following recommendations from our report. First, accountability must be ensured to deter further crimes. This requires targeted sanctions against those who aid and abet international crimes and full support for and cooperation with the International Criminal Court, including the expansion of its jurisdiction to to cover all Sudan. As the ICC focuses on those most responsible, a complementary judicial mechanism is needed to bring a broader range of perpetrators to justice in line with international standards and to secure justice for victims. The FFM is compiling dossiers on alleged perpetrators and and stands ready to share them with competent judicial authorities in accordance with our mandate. Second, violations must be documented and evidence must be preserved. Investigative bodies, including our ffm, must be granted access to Sudan. Third, lawyers, human rights defenders, humanitarian workers and medical workers, journalists and civil society actors must be protected. And finally, accountability and transitional justice must be embedded at the heart of any peace process. Without it, there is no justice. Thank you. HRC · Chair [1:47:26]: Thank you. I now invite Ms. Nada Al Nashif, Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, to deliver closing remarks. You have the floor. Thanks very much, Mr. Vice President. Thank you to all the delegations for their very rich contributions and also to all the distinguished panelists who have been speaking. OHCHR · Deputy High Commissioner · Nada Al Nashif [1:47:45]: Let me just add a few comments on protection, on mediation and the prevention of arms transfer. It's critical that all member states continue to support local, regional and international efforts for peace and strengthen societal resilience, including, let me say, hate speech and divisive ideologies, through support to civil society. I want to make that clear. The continued attention by this Council, by the Human Rights Council is critical in order that we can really address the drivers of this human rights and protection crisis. You heard already very clear we must address the Member States, the continuous flow of weapons and more broadly also end the supply, sale or transfer of arms or military material to the parties in the conflict. Given the violations and abuses that you have heard about, there was a specific question regarding the protection of those who have fled Al Fashr to places like Al Tawila. Let me say ensured continued humanitarian access is key. Tawila is crowded, but the presence of humanitarian actors and the delivery of aid have created protective conditions. There are greater concerns elsewhere in North Darfur where access is more restricted and the parties must enable the safe and free movement of civilians who wish to leave areas of remaining active conflict in North Darfur. Regarding accountability, as you heard already from my colleagues in the ffm, the urgent quest for accountability is the backbone that must include advocating for an urgent referral by the Security Council of the situation in the entire country to the icc. States should also exercise fully their own jurisdiction over crimes under international law, as you just heard, including based on the principle of universal jurisdiction. And let me again encourage all Member States, including Sudan, to cooperate with the FFM by granting access to Sudan and neighboring countries to facilitate the gathering of information and the documenting of violations. Finally, on prevention, we obviously heard and have seen the analysis from systematic patterns of violations in Darfur. I would say that we have two areas for decisive collective action. First, there is a need for more timely response to to early warning analysis that is generated by human rights monitoring before violence reaches irreversible levels and that response is at the heart of the prevention of atrocities. Second, accountability must be treated as a preventive tool, not a post conflict aspiration. Together, we believe those actions can create the visibility and the pressure needed to reduce the risk of mass violations in Cordofan at a moment when the warning signs are unmistakable. Thank you. Your HRC · Chair [1:50:45]: thank you. So this brings us to the end of this enhanced interactive dialogue. I wish to thank the High Commissioner, Deputy High Commissioner and all presenters for their participation. We will now take a short break break before holding the interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner's report on the human rights situation in the occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem. Excellencies, distinguished participants, we shall now start with the interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner's report on the human rights situation in the occupied Palestinian territory including East Jerusalem pursuant to Council resolutions 55, 28 and 58. 2. I'm order honored to welcome Mr. Volker Turk, high Commissioner for Human Rights to present his report. The list of speakers will be closed in 15 minutes. High Commissioner, you have the floor. OHCHR · High Commissioner · Volker Türk [2:01:59]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President, distinguished delegates, the situation in the occupied Palestinian Territory is a human made disaster. The report before you sets out events between 1 November 2024 and 31 October 2025 that show Israel's utter disregard for human rights in Gaza and the west bank and the serious violations also committed by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups. The evidence gathered by my office reveals a consistent pattern of gross violations and abuses of human rights, serious violations of international humanitarian law and atrocity crimes that remain unpunished. Israel's continued attacks on residential buildings and makeshift tents, destroying entire neighborhoods, caused mass civilian deaths. More than 25,500 Palestinians were killed, including entire families, and more than 68,800 were injured during the reporting period. Among those killed were many Palestinian journalists. My office has verified that 292 were killed in Israeli operations since 7 October 2023. Israel's militarization of humanitarian aid through the Gaza Humanitarian foundation also led to large scale killings. Between late May and 8 October 2025, my office recorded 2,435 Palestinians killed by the Israeli military near food collection points, mostly young men and Boys. In August 2025, famine was declared in Gaza, affecting more than half a million people. According to the Palestinian Ministry of health, at least 46063 Palestinians, including 157 children, died from starvation. This was the direct result of Israel's blocking of humanitarian aid and other deliberate actions. Israeli forces continued to kill humanitarian and medical personnel during this period and to make mass arrests of Palestinians across Gaza and the West Bank. These arrests often amounted to arbitrary detention and included in forced disappearances. Since 7 October 2023, my office has verified that at least 89 Palestinians have died in Israeli custody. Torture and other ill treatment of Palestinians in Israeli detention remain widespread. Israeli operations destroyed some 80% of civilian infrastructure in Gaza, including homes, schools, hospitals, cultural sites and water treatment plants. During the reporting period, Israel continued to forcibly displace Palestinians into ever shrinking areas of the Gaza Strip. Over the course of 2025, Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups continued to hold hostages in blatant violation of international law. 51 hostages who were seized on 7th October 2023 were returned to their loved ones. On their release, the hostages recounted their traumatic ordeals, including sexual and gender based violence, torture, beating and prolonged confinement underground. In June, there were reports that armed men allegedly affiliated with hamas summarily executed 12 Palestinians associated with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. Mr. Vice President in the west bank, including East Jerusalem, Israeli security forces continued to launch airstrikes and use unlawful force, killing hundreds of Palestinians. In January 2025, Israeli forces launched Operation Iron Wall in the north and west bank, which is still ongoing. So far, they have forced 32,000 Palestinians from their homes. Meanwhile, Palestinian security forces increased the use of unnecessary or disproportionate force, resulting in the unlawful killing of at least eight Palestinians. They also arbitrarily detained and ill treated more than 300 Palestinians. The ceasefire of 11 October 2025 brought some measure of relief, but we must not miss this. Take this for peace or safety. People are still dying in Gaza from Israeli fire, cold, hunger and treatable diseases and interests. Since the ceasefire, Israeli attacks in Gaza have killed more than 600 Palestinians and injured more than 1,600, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. Anywhere else, this would be considered a major crisis. My office has also recorded at least 80 reported killings of Palestinians by Hamas since the ceasefire, mostly by summary executions and in clashes with rival factions. Gaza now has the highest number of amputee children per capita in the world. Israel continues to destroy civilian infrastructure and forcibly transfer Palestinians within the Occupied Palestinian territory. The humanitarian situation is still extremely precarious as Israel continues to impede the humanitarian community's ability to bring in food, shelter, fuel, medical supplies and other essential items. Since the ceasefire, at least 11 children have died from hypothermia. I deplore Israel's decision at the end of last year to suspend some 37 aid groups from Gaza. I also deplore the ban on UNRWA operations and the demolition of its premises in East Jerusalem in blatant violation of international law. Today, the situation in the west bank is particularly disturbing. Recent Israeli measures expanding land expropriation consolidate the annexation of Palestinian territory. This is in flagrant breach of the Palestinian right to self determination. Israeli security forces continue to use unnecessary and disproportionate force and have killed 1,020 Palestinians since 7 October 2023, according to figures verified by my office. Taken together, Israel's actions appear aimed at at making a permanent demographic change in Gaza and the west bank, raising concerns about ethnic cleansing. Mr. Vice President, the absence of accountability for the egregious violations committed is nothing short of shameful. Instead, there are efforts to obstruct accountability. The unilateral sanctions imposed on 11 judges and prosecutors of the International Criminal Court are completely unacceptable, as are those imposed on the Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territory appointed by this Council. Time and again I stand before this Council and brief on the litany of violations. I make recommendations, plead for accountability and for respect of international law. I do so again today because it is crucial. The ongoing violations of international law in Gaza must stop and I need to issue a stark warning about the rapidly deteriorating situation in the West Bank. Israel must end its unlawful occupation in line with the conclusions of the International Court of Justice. And Israel must lift undue restrictions on the flow of humanitarian aid. We have thought a lot about the contribution my office can make to shift the trajectory of this awful situation. It may seem incongruous or inappropriate to talk about reconstruction as the suffering continues unabated. But we have a responsibility to think about what is needed to break this senseless cycle to talk about lasting peace. Human rights have been crushed in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. Any realistic effort to rebuild and move towards lasting stability will have to be anchored in human rights and this is urgent. The reconstruction of Gaza is not a logistics exercise. Rebuilding Gaza and restoring human rights throughout the Occupied Palestinian Territory requires focusing on what people have lived through over many generations and cutting through the contested narratives. I see five elements that can help us to get there. First, there need to be meaningful steps towards accountability for all human rights violations and abuses. My office's reports form part of the record. Continued monitoring and reporting of the human rights situation is critical. Second, there must be the long overdue realization of Palestinian Palestinians right to self determination, including full responsibility for their own governance and control over their land and resources. Palestinians must be able to shape their own futures and lead reconstruction efforts in Gaza. Third, security is more than weapons and walls. Unequal treatment is feeding grievances. People can only feel safe when they have faith in equal justice and the rule of law. All segregationist laws and policies that resemble the kind of apartheid system we have seen before must be dismantled. Fourth, Palestinian and Israeli civil society organizations and human rights defenders that are trusted by their communities need to be central partners in safeguarding human rights going forward. They need the support and protection of the international community. And finally, we need understanding and healing among Palestinian communities and between Palestinians and Israelis. This means working to undo the dehumanization which has fueled this decades long conflict. The voices of peace movements Palestinian, Israeli and those that bring together Palestinians and Israelis must be heard and heeded. This can strengthen the constituency for dialogue and increase the space for shared narratives. The international community needs to step into the moral vacuum and seize the moment. Not to return to the pre October 23status quo, but to finally address the underlying causes of this conflict. Member States need to pursue A path to sustainable peace, one in which Palestine and Israel live side by side in equal dignity and rights in line with UN resolutions and international law. Thank you. HRC · Chair [2:13:22]: Thank you, High Commissioner. In accordance with our practice, we will begin by hearing the delegations of the countries concerned. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Israel. I note that the delegation of Israel is not present in the room. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the State of Palestine. You have five minutes, sir. State of Palestine [2:13:53]: Shukran, say the rais. Thank you, President. President, I'd like to thank the High Commissioner and the Bureau for developing the report. Thank you for the presentation. First presentation where he referred the number of violations committed by the occupying power between November 24, November 24, November 2025. The occupation forces continue to target civilians. Since October 2023, we've documented more than 250,000 people dead or injured. The majority, children, women and the elderly, including more than 20,000 children, 14,000 women and 1600 doctors, paramedics and medical workers. Furthermore, infrastructure protected. Protected infrastructure has been targeted. According to the UN and its agencies, 95% of health facilities and hospitals have been completely or partially destroyed. We don't have time to talk about the extent of the destruction and losses caused. The international community has asked for corridors to be opened, for medical aid to be provided, as well as relief. Also, the the ICJ has adopted interim measures in January, March and May 2024, followed by the complaints submitted by South Africa and other countries. And we're grateful to South Africa for that motion, that complaint. Nevertheless, the occupying power continues to commit its violations and ignores the international community. Even after the announcement of the cease fire in Sharm El Sheikh, the occupying power has failed to respect the ceasefire. Since October, there have been many martyrs, many people wounded. Israel prevents the flow of aid and of relief materials. This exacerbates the suffering of our people in Gaza who have been forcibly displaced more than once. The occupying power continues, continues to escalate its aggression in the west bank, targeting civilians, killing children and women. There have been mass arrest campaigns, as well as evacuation of residential areas, forced displacement of the camps in Tulkaram, Jenin, Nablus and Tuba, as well as daily raids on villages and cities. 1,200 checkpoints have been and have been opened, as well as electronic gates. They've extended settlements. On 8 February, a decision was adopted that allows the confiscation of Palestinian land, registering it as state property. This runs counter to the advisory opinion of the ICJ of July 2024 and the General assembly resolution of December 19, 2024, which provided for measures to implement the Court's opinion. We've seen a dangerous escalation in the West Bank. Palestinian prisoners have been victims of torture, ill treatment and other atrocities as a result of medical negligence. Continuous attacks as well as provocative and abusive visits carried out. But the Minister of National Security, Ben Kaffir to these prisons. There's also been adoption during the first reading of a law for the execution of detainees which violates all international norms and conventions. Our people want to see an end to its suffering. After 75 years of displacement and 56 years of occupation. Our people want to enjoy their right to self determination on the land of their state in Gaza, the West bank and East Jerusalem. For there to be justice, there must be accountability, an end to double standards. There's need to implement international resolutions for this. We need to take practical measures such as stopping trade with settlers, stop transfer of weapons and stop dealing with criminals who are wanted for justice. We need to reconsider diplomatic trade and security relations. Hate speech should be outlawed. Hate speech made by officials in the occupying government. Here I refer to what was said by the Foreign Minister to the Security Council. Making a racist terrorist speech. He incited called for more displacement. He called for. For the denial of the existence of the Palestinian people. We are the original. We are the indigenous people. We didn't come from different countries or ethnic or ethnic groups who stole land and occupied the rest of it. We demand the implementation of the conclusions and recommendations contained in the report of the High Commissioner. I thank you. HRC · Chair [2:19:04]: Thank you. The list of speakers is now closed. I now invite interested delegations to put questions to the High Commissioner and to comment on the report. Accordingly, I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Pakistan on behalf of the Organization of Islamic cooperation. Pakistan · OIC [2:19:30]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The OIC Group thanks the High Commissioner for presenting his officer's report, which we have noted. We echo the concerns raised by the State of Palestine. We condemn in the strongest terms the escalating crimes of the illegal occupying power in the west bank, including East Al Quds and the Gaza Strip. The weight of evidence detailing the illegal occupying power's grave violations of international law before, during and since the reporting period continues to grow. Mr. High Commissioner. The occupying power must face accountability for its crime. Israel's genocide of the Palestinian people, attempted annexation of their native lands and settler colonial apartheid must not be understated. In January 2024, the ICJ warned of the real and imminent risk that irreparable prejudice will be caused to the right of the Palestinian people to be protected from genocide. The CUI has since concluded that Israel, the occupying Power, bears responsibility for the commission of crime of genocide in Gaza. In west bank, including East Jerusalem, ethnic cleansing is not merely a policy of illegal forcible transfer, but combined with actions and an intent to destroy the Palestinian people. The human rights situation in the OPT leaves no room for equivocation. It is beyond time to call it what it is. Genocide. Thank you. HRC · Chair [2:20:51]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European union. Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Mr. High Commissioner. We thank you and your office for upholding human rights and defending international human rights law. EU [2:21:05]: The EU continues to support the COI and other relevant OHCHR mandates. The EU condemns all violations of international human rights law and ihl. In the whole opt, there must be accountability. The EU recalls the need to fully implement the ICJ orders, which are legally binding and takes note of its advisory opinions. We have welcomed the adoption of UNCHR 2803 and stand ready to continue to support peace in Gaza through the EU's humanitarian, security, diplomatic and cooperation tools. The EU will continue calling on all parties to facilitate full and unimpeded humanitarian excellence to Gaza and urge for aid to be effectively distributed in accordance with international law, including by UN agencies, notably unrwa. The EU strongly condemns the further escalation following massive increase in settler violence and the policies and threats of intimidation, forcible displacement and annexation in the west bank, as well as the terrorist attacks against Israel. We call on Israel to reverse the expansion of settlements and to hold violent settlers accountable. The EU remains firmly committed to peace based on the two state solution and supports diplomatic efforts which are anchored in international law. I thank you. HRC · Chair [2:22:33]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Venezuela on behalf of a group of countries. Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) · Group of Friends in Defense of the UN Charter [2:22:43]: Gracia. President. Thank you. President. Venezuela makes this statement on behalf of the Group of Friends in defense of the UN Charter. For more than two years, the Palestinian people have been subjected to a humanitarian disaster provoked by Israel and a pattern of grave violations of international humanitarian law and human rights. Israel is provoking a famine in Gaza while intensifying its attacks against international organizations. We reiterate our support to the Advisory Opinion of the ICJ of July 2024 which found illegal the continued presence of Israel in occupied Palestine. We also reaffirm the advisory opinion of 22 October 2025 which reaffirmed the obligation of Israel to facilitate unimpeded humanitarian assistance, prohibit the use of hunger as a method of war and refrain from establishing alternative mechanisms. We take note of the understandings reached in October 2025 between Israel and Hamas on de escalation in the Gaza Strip as well as ongoing efforts by the mediator countries to support implementation. Finally, we call for the adoption of tangible measures to guarantee accountability and put an end to Israel's illegal occupation. The international community must defend international law. The accountability mechanisms support the self determination of the Palestinians and stop weapons transfers to Israel. Thank you. Thank you. HRC · Chair [2:24:17]: I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia on behalf of a group of Arab states via video statement. Saudi Arabia · Arab Group [2:24:28]: Thank you, Mr. President. The Arab Group has reviewed the report of the High Commissioner. We express our concern at the continuation by the occupying Power to violate international law and disregard ICJ's advisory opinion. This is a flagrant violation of international legitimacy. We have heard the statement by the State of Palestine and stand in full solidarity with them. The events before, during and after the reporting period has shown a total disregard of international law. And we warn against any kind of fabricated balance or false comparison between the occupier and the occupied. We condemn in the strongest terms the crimes committed in the opt, including genocide. We refuse any forced displacement of Palestinians inside or outside their land. The suffering of the Palestinian people can never be justified. We reaffirm the importance of accountability and support to the role of international tribunals and courts. We must take immediate steps to preserve evidence and hold perpetrators accountable. Thank you. Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bahrain on behalf of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf. Bahrain · GCC [2:26:13]: Thank you. Mr. Vice President. We have reviewed the report of the High Commissioner on the opt. It shows the continuing deterioration of human rights in Gaza. The violations continue against IHL and international human rights law, including deliberate targeting of civilians, destruction of civilian infrastructure and restrictions. Restriction on humanitarian access. We express our concern at the rampant famine and restrictions imposed on civilians in the west bank and in Jerusalem. We see extrajudicial murders as well as increasing destruction of infrastructure. We reaffirm the importance of an immediate ceasefire and an unconditional and unrestricted humanitarian access. We reaffirm the importance of accountability to avoid any impunity. Saudi Arabia · Arab Group [2:27:35]: We reaffirm that the two States state solution is the only way to peace and security and that in order to achieve the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people HRC · Chair [2:27:48]: of Kenya on behalf of Group of African states. Kenya · Africa Group [2:27:53]: Mr. Vice President, I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the African Group. The full statement will be uploaded on the extranet. The African Group thanks the High Commissioner for his report and expresses deep concern over the continued violations of international humanitarian law international human rights law against the Palestinian people, including repeated violations of ceasefire in Gaza resulting in civilian casualties and widespread destruction, as well as ongoing illegal measures in the west bank including East Jerusalem aimed at altering the legal and demographic character of the Occupied Palestinian Territory. Stemming from its common values and principles that stand firmly against colonialism, oppression and apathy. The African Group reaffirms the centrality of the just cause of Palestinian and its unwavering support for the Palestinian people in their historic struggle to realize their right to self determination and establish their independence state as on 4 June 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. The African group renounces Israeli colonial policies manifested in collective punitive measures against civilians and equivocally rejects any attempts to liquidate Palestinian cause, including any form of forced displacement of the Palestinian people, particularly from the Gaza Strip in violation of the national. The Group welcomes the Gaza Peace Agreement and called for its full implementation in all its phases, including the coordination of the ceasefire, ensuring the protection of civilians, forgetting the urgent and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance, lifting the blockade on Gaza, advancing early recovery and reconstruction efforts and preserving the unity and territorial integrity of the Occupied Brazilian territory. The African group reiterates the imperative to address the root causes of the conflict. HRC · Chair [2:29:26]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia on behalf of a group of countries. Colombia · Hague Group [2:29:35]: Vice President I'm speaking on behalf of the countries that make up the Hague Group. We express our concern at the recent unilateral measures taken by the Government of Israel aimed at consolidating the de facto annexation of the west bank through the exam expansion of civil authority authority and establishment of property registration on illegally occupied land. These measures run counter to international law, threaten the Palestinian people's right to self determination and come on top of those taken last year to extend settlements in areas inhabited by the Palestinian population which has exacerbated attacks by Israeli settlers. We also note with grave concern the drafts law to implement the death penalty against Palestinian detainees which in addition which moreover is discriminatory and contrary to the evolution of international human rights law and would be a major step back since it would eliminate the abolitionist practice that was present in Israel before. We condemn the attacks against UNRWA and the violation of its privileges and immunities and we call for compliance with the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip for protection of the civilian population for respect of the ICJ Advisory Opinion and for lifting of restrictions on access for humanitarian aid. Finally, we take note of the opportunities for peace that have been announced. And above all, we support efforts to contribute to a comprehensive, just, lasting solution grounded in accountability and international law and the existence of a viable sovereign Palestinian state. HRC · Chair [2:31:10]: Distinguished representative of Australia. Australia [2:31:14]: Thank you. Vice President. Australia remains gravely concerned by ongoing human rights violations and abuses in Palestine. We have consistently urged all parties to the conflict to abide by international law, including humanitarian and human rights law. Civilians, humanitarian workers and UN staff and facilities must be protected, sustained and unimpeded. Humanitarian assistance must flow into Gaza. Hamas must play no role in Palestine's future and we condemn its ongoing abuses and acts of terror. Vice President. A two state solution remains the only avenue for enduring peace and security for both Israel and Palestine. And we are deeply concerned by actions that are undermining progress towards that goal. Australia condemns escalating settler violence and calls on Israel to cease settlement expansions in the west bank, which is illegal under international law. We also call on Israel to reverse its decision to expand its control over the West Bank. Along with partners, Australia strongly opposes any form of annexation. Vice President. We must work together towards a just and enduring peace that ensures the human rights of Palestinians and Israelis alike. I thank you. HRC · Chair [2:32:34]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Jordan. Jordan [2:32:42]: In the name of Allah, most gracious, most merciful. Mr. Vice President, we thank the High Commissioner and we appreciate the efforts of his office in delivering on his mandate. The report presented before us reminds us that bean lacks in supporting the law and its respect and delivering on its higher principles only exacerbates violations that kill both people and place and steal a dream of a child. A child that wants to live like any other child, safely and in security and to have choices and options. This report documents the accumulation of violations that are crimes that require prevention and accountability on the basis of occupation. That undermines rights and weakens the prospect of peace. The Palestinian people has been under occupation for so long. The law is on its side, but it doesn't protect a Palestinian from a settler who despoils assets, property, house and olive tree. Despite all of that, the Palestinian dream to establish an independent state on Palestinian land with self determination is a dream that will last. And the self determination is something that we've embedded in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. But we're failing in implementing it. At the end, we won't have stability without ending occupation and establishing an independent Palestinian and state. Thank you, Vice President. Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kuwait. Kuwait [2:34:22]: Thank you, Vice President. Kuwait associates with the statements delivered by the groups it belongs to and it expresses its appreciation for the High Commissioner's briefing on the human rights situation in the opt including East Jerusalem. In light of the continuing grave violations of international humanitarian law and international law of human rights. Mr. Vice President, we condemn in the strongest terms the policies and practices by the Israeli occupying force, including settlement, expansion, expropriation of land and transferring land in the Western in the west bank to what is now called as State assets. These measures are null and void and are a form of illegal annexation in flagrant violation of international instruments and Security Council resolutions. In conclusion, Kuwait reaffirms the importance of implementing the measures and advisory opinions of the ICJ ensuring accountability for all violations and put an end to impunity. Kuwait renews its principled and long standing position in support of the Palestinian people in towards establishing their independent state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital as part of the two State solution and international legitimacy resolutions. Thank you. Vice President. Thank you. HRC · Chair [2:35:47]: I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ireland. Ireland [2:35:53]: Vice President. Thank you. Ireland aligns with the statement of the EU Commissioner. Thank you for your report. It provides a very sombre account of the widespread and systematic human rights abuses in the opt. The routine use of torture and other ill treatment in detention against Palestinians, including the use of sexual and gender based violence, is particularly shocking. We share your concerns regarding the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza, which continues to be curtailed by highly restrictive controls imposed by Israel. Gaza is now home to the highest number of child amputees per capita in the world. We are appalled that humanitarian organizations have been prevented from bringing in wheelchairs, crutches, walkers and other essential assistive devices arbitrarily classified by Israel as dual use items. Ireland is alarmed by the deteriorating situation in the west bank where Palestinian life is increasingly restricted by unprecedented levels of extremist settler violence and illegal settlement construction. Ireland condemns decisions taken by the Israeli Security Cabinet to expand control over the Occupied West Bank. These measures contravene international law and are part of an established pattern to create a new status quo in the Occupied Palestinian territory. We repeat our call on Israel to cease all settlement activity and to comply fully with security council resolution 2334. Thank you. Vice President. HRC · Chair [2:37:15]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Egypt. Egypt [2:37:30]: Of the High Commissioner. There's no accountability for human rights violations. The ceasefire agreement in Gaza has been violated and there have also been illegal practices in the west bank in violation of the right to the Palestinian people and runs counter to peace efforts. We reiterate the right of the Palestinian people, the inalienable rights. The ceasefire agreement must be respected. There is a need to launch the second phase of that agreement. A stabilization force needs to be established allowing provision of humanitarian assistance. There is a need for Israel to withdraw from Gaza. This can allow reconstruction and recovery and will safeguard the right of the Palestinian people. Any vision for a solution to the Palestinian cause must be based on accountability, addressing the root causes of this conflict. An end must be put to the Israeli occupation, to the expansion of the settlements. There is a need to address violations that the Palestinian people have been victims of and ensure that they can exercise their right to an independent state and to self determination. Thank you. HRC · Chair [2:38:49]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Luxembourg. Luxembourg [2:39:00]: Thank you. Vice President. Luxembourg aligns with the statement by the European Union. It's with grave concern that we observed developments in the OPT measures introduced by the Israeli government allowing it to extend its control over the west bank, jeopardize the two state solutions that Luxembourg continues to support the building of new settlements which are illegal under international law and settler violence continues completely unpunished. We call for all measures and actions to be repealed. That could lead to a permanent modification of the legal administrative status of the opt. We note with concern a growing number of arbitrary detentions, cases of torture of prisoners and the disproportionate use of force against civilians, including against minors. We recall our firm commitment to against the death penalty and call Israel to withdraw the relevant bill. The ban on 37 humanitarian NGOs must be reversed. We condemn the demolition of the UNRWA building, which is a violation of the of international law and a direct attack against the UN agency. UNRWA is irreplaceable when it comes to ensuring provision of humanitarian aid. High Commissioner, given the recurring attacks, how can we protect humanitarian workers, both foreigners and Palestinians? Thank you. Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia via video. HRC · Chair [2:40:35]: Thank you. Mr. President. We have reviewed the report of the High Commissioner and its reference to widespread destruction, enforced disappearance and catastrophic deterioration of the situation in the opt. This is a flagrant violation of IHL international human rights law. In this context, we condemn the decision by the occupying forces to make the land of the west bank what it calls state property. Saudi Arabia [2:41:11]: This tries to impose a status quo legally and administratively. We condemn in the strongest terms the destruction of UNRWA property and that by the Israeli occupation forces. The international community must shoulder its responsibility to deal with such practices. We reaffirm that Israel has no sovereignty on the opt. We totally reject illegal measures that are a flagrant violation of international law, undermine the two state solution and is an attack on the inalienable right of the Palestinian people in establishing their independent state within the borders of 1967 with East Jerusalem as capital. HRC · Chair [2:42:10]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belgium. Belgium [2:42:17]: Thank you. Vice President. Hi. Commissioner. Your report is very alarming. We deeply regret that the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, notwithstanding the fragile ceasefire. Belgium reiterates its call for immediate, safe and unhetered humanitarian access, including for international NGOs and relevant UN agencies, notably UNRWA. Safeguarding the neutrality, independence and principled nature of humanitarian action is not optional. It's essential to ensuring that those most in need can be reached effectively and safely. We equally call for the immediate reversal of recent Israeli decisions and actions aimed at expanding its unlawful presence in and control over the West Bank. Illegal occupation must not consolidate into annexation. Belgium concurs that we need to end the pervasive climate of impunity. That's why we call on all parties to collaborate with the Office of the High Commissioner, the Special Procedures and other independent mechanisms, the icc as well as to implement the ICJ provisional measures. In the same vein, further implementation of the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza conflict and of Security Council resolutions 2803 needs to integrate an accountability dimension for all parties. Aye. Commissioner, what potential steps would you see to ensure this integration of accountability? For instance, regarding transitional justice? My. HRC · Chair [2:43:46]: Thank you. Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Maldives. Maldives [2:43:56]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Maldives thanks the High Commissioner for his comprehensive report on the grave situation in the occupied Palestinian territory. The Maldives joins more than 100 states in condemning Israel's decision to designate land in the occupied west bank as so called state land. This unlawful step represents a serious escalation that accelerates illegal settlement activity and undermines the Palestinian people's right to self determination. Israel's continued action in violation of the ceasefire agreement have resulted in further civilian casualties and widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure, imposing increasingly untenable conditions of life in the occupied Palestinian territory. We're deeply concerned that some states continue to transfer arms to Israel to conduct operations that violate international humanitarian law and international human rights law. The human toll is devastating. Over 68,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 23, including more than 20,000 children. The Maldives calls on Israel to cooperate fully with the United nations as per the ICJ ruling of October 2025, and urges all states to hold arms to transfers that contribute to violations of international law and to support credible accountability processes. I thank you. HRC · Chair [2:45:31]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland. Switzerland [2:45:39]: Mr. Vice President, Switzerland would like to thank the High Commissioner for his report. Switzerland is very concerned about the escalation of violence in the west bank, especially by settlers, often with the support of security forces. Switzerland strongly condemns decisions such as those of the Israel security cabinet of February 8, 2026, strengthening Israeli civil and administrative control over the occupied territory in violation of international law. Israel's violation of its obligations was noted by the International Court of Justice in July 2024. These measures create fait accompli reinforcing measures that already amount to annexation. Switzerland calls on Israel to put an end to the illegal occupation. Switzerland is equally concerned over restriction on humanitarian access through the Gaza Strip by the new registration requirement for international NGOs and the limited access of Gazan patients to specialized care facilities in the west bank, including East Jerusalem. We reiterate that the occupied power of Israel must protect and supply the population of the territory under its control and in the event of insufficiency, allow and facilitate prompt and unhindered humanitarian access. Switzerland reminds all parties to respect international law, in particular humanitarian law and human rights, and to work constructively for a negotiated two state solution with a view to a definitive end to the violence. Thank you. HRC · Chair [2:47:08]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa. Vice President. South Africa thanks the High Commissioner for his report bringing to the fore the tragedy unfolding in the opt. Notwithstanding the supposed ceasefire that Israel violates daily, we share the concerns about the ethnic cleansing being undertaken by Israel. South Africa [2:47:29]: These concerns arise amidst the attacks targeted against the innocent, including the destruction of neighborhoods and the weaponization of humanitarian assistance, which, together with forcible transfers, are aimed at the permanent displacement of Palestinians. South Africa joins others in condemning Israel's decision to resume land registration procedures which entrench its illegal occupation. Israel's actions not only amount to war crimes, but also crimes against humanity. Indeed, the genocide continues as Israel seeks to inflict conditions of life calculated to bring about the Palestinians destruction as a group. Accordingly, we must hold Israel accountable and end its impunity. The Council's mechanisms, including the Commission of Inquiry and the Special Rapporteur on the OPT play a critical role. We must therefore ensure that they are protected from vilification and have the necessary resources to discharge their mandates. The Hague Group was similarly established to promote accountability and uphold international law. And South Africa urges States to join us in taking effective measures to that end, indeed, unless we live up to our obligations to end Israel's occupation and support the Palestinians ability to realize their right to self determination, their unimaginable suffering will continue. I thank you. HRC · Chair [2:48:48]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malaysia. Mr. Vice President. Malaysia associates itself with the statement of the OIC and the Hague Group. We thank the High Commissioner for his comprehensive and deeply alarming report which documents widespread and recurrent violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law in the opt. Malaysia [2:49:12]: The report accepts poses Israel's systematic illegal occupation and its continued oppression of Palestinians marked by decades of outrageous apartheid policies and blatant human rights violations. Malaysia is appalled by famine conditions in Gaza and starvation related death. Palestinians are forced to choose between hunger or being shot while seeking food. With 82% of Gaza now within Israeli militarized zones or under displacement orders, the scale and pattern of these measures point to an underlying objective of permanently altering Gaza's demographic composition in the West Bank. Unlawful killings, asterites and military grade weapons in law enforcement operations. Mass demolitions and the displacement of tens of thousands further entrench segregation and discrimination. Impunity persists. Malaysia calls for full compliance with international law, including the ICJ rulings and for the full exercise of accountability. Malaysia reiterates its commitment to the Palestinian cause and will continue supporting the establishment of an independent and sovereign state of Palestine Based on the pre1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. Thank you. HRC · Chair [2:50:26]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of East Iraq. Iraq [2:50:35]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Iraq expresses its grave concern because the fact finding mission on the OPT was not able to present its report. It has an important mandate to document the violations of the occupying power including genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. My delegation reiterates the importance of the mandate of the coi. Rather, in order to document the crimes of the occupying power, it must gather evidence and preserve documents. In order to put an end to impunity and guarantee accountability, be it individual criminal responsibility or the accountability of the occupying power. Victims must have access to justice. We must provide the necessary resources to the COI to undertake its mandate. We reaffirm the importance of the rights of the Palestinian people under occupation. These cannot be selective. These must be at the top priority of this esteemed Council. Reiterate our support to the Palestinian people in establishing its state. HRC · Chair [2:52:07]: Thank you. To the distinguished representative of Senegal. Senegal [2:52:14]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Senegal would like to thank the HACC Commissioner for the report. The tragedy unfolding in the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem, appears to be a desire to systematically dismantle the international architecture for the protection of fundamental human rights and freedoms. In this regard, the report presented by the High Commissioner leaves no room for doubt about the urgency of taking action to preserve the two state solution, which requires the exercise by the Palestinian people of their inalienable right to self determination. And despite intense mediation efforts, the situation on the ground continues to worsen. We condemn the excessive loss of life, the massive destruction of civilian infrastructure, as well as the forced displacement of populations affecting the integrity of the Palestinian people. In this context, Senegal calls for renewed impetus of international solidarity based on the defense of of the ideals of the UN Charter so as not to let power prevail over law. It is essential to protect the integrity of the UN process for the peaceful settlement of the Israeli Palestinian conflict. We must ensure that the costs of violations of international law be high because the only alternative to respect for human rights is chaos. By standing ready to support any initiative aimed at the return of lasting peace in Palestine for the benefit of regional stability, Senegal reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the two state solution, living side by side in peace and security. Thank you. Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Tunisia. Tunisia [2:53:56]: Thank you, Vice President. We take note of the report of the High Commissioner and we reiterate our firm condemnation of the genocide and war crimes that the Palestinian people have been subjected to, as well as the systematic violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law in the opt at the hands of the occupying power. We call upon the international community to shoulder its legal and moral responsibility away from double standards, to enforce a ceasefire and refrain from using starvation as a weapon of war and forced displacement plans. We insist upon the need to implement the advisory opinion of the ICJ in this regard and to the need of continuing to prosecute the culprits for their genocidal crimes and their collective abuse of the Palestinian people. It is a principled and long standing position of Tunisia to reject the forced displacement of the Palestinian people or to let its right to self determination fall under the statute of. Statute of limitations. There should be no effort to that could be accepted to legitimize the ongoing occupation. Thank you, Vice President. Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mauritania. Mauritania [2:55:41]: Thank you. Mr. Vice President. We would like to thank the High Commissioner for his detailed report on the human rights situation in occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem. We strongly condemn the violations documented in the report, including the targeting of civilians, the destruction of basic civilian infrastructure, restrictions on humanitarian access and the forced displacement of the population. These violations are ongoing and increasing in severity. Palestinian people are subject to an occupation regime that not only violates human rights but also is a fundamental obstacle to peace for Mauritania. The west bank affirms that the west bank, including East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip remain occupied occupied Palestinian territory under international law and that any attempt to impose a political or regional reality contrary to this should be condemned. We reaffirm our support to the inalienable right of the Palestinian people, including the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital in keeping with UN resolutions. The suffering of the Palestinian people has lasted far too long. The international community must intervene strongly and protect international laws with non selectivity of Iceland. Iceland [2:57:20]: Mr. Vice President, Iceland supports the High Commissioner's call for accountability and justice for gross violations and abuses in the occupied territories of Palestine, including for acts that may amount to war crimes and to other atrocity crimes. Palestinians continue to live under extraordinarily difficult conditions in Gaza. Basic human needs for food and shelter are not being met and this is compounded by the collapse of healthcare and the destruction of essential infrastructure. Iceland has repeatedly called for full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access as well as access for journalists and UN investigators. Any efforts toward peace and reconstruction must be firmly grounded in international law and place the rights and dignity of the Palestinian people at their core in the West Bank. We condemn recent Israeli decisions aimed at expanding Israel's unlawful presence. There is an urgent need to safeguard the work of UN agencies, including unrwa, which are essential to support vulnerable communities and uphold human rights and international law. For the same reasons, Iceland underscores the importance of supporting the work of civil society organizations. We must realize the right of the Palestinian people to self determination and the implementation of the two state solution. With Palestine and Israel living side by side in peace and security. I thank you. HRC · Chair [2:58:42]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Canada. Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Canada's position on the Israeli Palestinian conflict remains grounded in our commitment to human rights, international law and a two state solution. Canada fully supports the ceasefire in Gaza and we welcome the commencement of phase two of the Gaza Peace Plan. Canada [2:59:06]: Yet, despite improvements in Gaza, we remain gravely concerned about ongoing reports of Palestinian deaths and injuries. High levels of acute food insecurity and the denial of health services. The persistent restrictions on humanitarian access and Israel's deregistration of key international NGOs are leaving Palestinians in Gaza without essential assistance. We call on Israel to reverse its policy on deregistration of international NGOs and its policies that undermine the UN's work throughout Palestine. We urge Israel to allow and facilitate rapid, sustained, unimpeded humanitarian access into Gaza. At scale, the situation in the west bank is equally troubling. We condemn extremist settler violence, which is largely committed with impunity. Settlement expansion and the Israeli Security Cabinet's approval of measures to increase Israel's control in the west bank contravene international law and undermine prospects for peace. To be clear, Canada continues to unequivocally condemn Hamas's terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023. And we emphasized that political negotiations must lead to Hamas's disarmament and permanent removal from governance in Gaza. Canada remains. HRC · Chair [3:00:25]: I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of United Arab Emirates, United Arab Emirates [3:00:31]: Shukran. Thank you, Vice President. The United Arab Emirates has a deep concern regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which has reached a pinnacle over the past two years, including devastation and escalation and practices by the Israelis in the West Bank. We condemn the Israeli illegal measures aimed at instating an illegal sovereignty and to entrench settlements and the continued expansionist policies followed by Israel. This is a grave escalation and an infringement upon international law. Here. The UAE declares its rejection as to any form of undermining the rights of the Palestinian people and calls for an immediate halt to settlement activities that undermine peace and coexistence. It is our long standing position to continue to provide humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people in Gaza. My country announced last week $1.2 additional billion dollars to support the humanitarian efforts in Gaza. And we continue to support, as a founding member of the Executive Council for Peace in Gaza in such a way as to serve stability and peace in the region. Thank you, Vice President. Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia. Vice President. Indonesia [3:02:12]: Indonesia takes note of the report of the High Commissioner on the human rights situation in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem. We are deeply concerned by the serious and continued violations documented in the report, including the scale of civilian casual difficulties, the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure and the worsening humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. Indonesia notes with grave concern the reported patterns of mass displacement, restrictions on humanitarian assistance and conditions that place the civilian population at extreme risk, particularly women and children. Developments in the west bank, including the increased use of force, arbitrary detention and forced displacement, further reflect a deteriorating human rights situation. This pattern underscores the urgent need for full compliance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law, including the protection of civilians and civilian objects Indonesia stresses that accountability must be ensured. The persistence of impunity will only deepen the crisis and prolong suffering. In this regard, what specific measures and safeguards guard has the Office of the High Commissioner implemented to prevent external interference of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territory? Thank you. HRC · Chair [3:03:33]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Norway. Vice President. We thank the High Commissioner for his continued reporting. We share the concern of the human rights situation in Palestine. Norway [3:03:47]: In Gaza, the prospect for lasting peace is constantly threatened by ongoing violence and severe humanitarian conditions. Several hundred civilians have been killed since the ceasefire entered into force, including many children. All parties must uphold a ceasefire and continue to implement security council resolution 2803. Palestinian ownership is key to the success and legitimacy of any peace plan. Safe and unhindered humanitarian access must be ensured throughout Gaza. Norway condemns the recent Israeli decision to expand its own control over the occupied West Bank. This unilateral decision is illegal and lacks validity under international law. We urge Israeli authorities to respect previous agreements with Palestine. We call on Israel to prevent the continued expansion of illegal settlements and settler violence and to hold those responsible to account in line with their obligations under international international law. The only way to lasting peace is a two state solution based on internationally recognized borders. Norway continues to support any effort towards that end. And in closing, we would like to ask how this Council can reinforce its efforts to address the serious developments and report human rights violations in the west bank, including settled violence. Thank you. HRC · Chair [3:05:00]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Qatar. Qatar [3:05:12]: Mr. President, the world is witnessing new types of crimes and violations perpetrated by the Israeli and occupying forces against the Palestinian people in occupied Palestinian territory in Gaza. Killing, starvation, forced, masked, forced displacement, the suffering of children and women targeting civilian facilities, schools, hospitals and journalists. All of this is unacceptable. Gaza is an unlivable place and this is a violation of international conventions. The international community is called upon to have go beyond a policy of double standards and assume its legal and moral responsibility to ensure the protection of the Palestinian people and end the Israeli occupation while moving forward with the peace process. In order to achieve peace and security and to allow the Palestinian people to have their sovereign state, there must be accountability as well for the Israeli criminal and then must be brought to impunity because Israel believes that they are above the law and they continue to perpetrate these violations. Thank you. Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Pakistan. Thank you. Pakistan [3:06:45]: Mr. Vice President. We thank the High Commissioner for his presentation and take note of the report. Pakistan remains deeply concerned by the alarming situation of human rights in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. Israel's illegal actions across the OPT are undermining efforts to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people under occupation and work towards a just and lasting peace in the Gaza Strip. The occupying powers deadly military strikes and severe restrictions on humanitarian assistance are undermining efforts to consolidate the ceasefire in the west bank including Eve Jerusalem. Israel's illegal decisions to expand control are rooted in a fundamental disregard for the human rights of the native Palestinian people and the tenets of international law. These illegal measures are null and void, constitute a clear violation of international humanitarian law, particularly the Fourth Geneva Convention and contravene the July 2024 Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice. Justice throughout the OPT there can be no sustainable solution without the realization of the Palestinian people's right to self determination and accountability for the occupying powers crimes amounting to genocide. Pakistan will continue to support international efforts for a credible time bound political process consistent with international law that results in the realization of an independent, sovereign and contiguous state of Palestine based on pre1967 borders with Al Quds Al Sharif as its capital. I thank you, Mr. Vice President. HRC · Chair [3:08:16]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Venezuela. Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) [3:08:24]: Thank you, Mr. President. The report of the High Commissioner reflects a terrifying situation which regrettably is taking place under the silence of the international community. Community that looks with arms crossed as the genocide is perpetrated by Israel. Various UN reports show figures depicting a devastating landscape. The most recent UNCTA report mentions the death of over 59,000 people of a population of 2.3 million inhabitants. Likewise, it is said that at least 1.9 million people have been forced to leave their homes. That is at least 8 out of every 10. Gaza. The report in 2025 shows that at least 64,000 children have been victims of these attacks. Out of every 100 children, approximately six has died or have been mutilated. In spite of efforts to promote a definitive ceasefire, Israel continues to act flaunting the UN flagrantly violating international law. Continuing indiscriminate attacks against the Palestinian civilian population, pillaging under a policy of ethnic cleansing, altering the demographic and condition of occupied territories. We reiterate our strong support to the inalienable light of the self determination of the Palestinian people and the right to live in peace free from any foreign oppression. Thank you. Thank you. Algeria [3:09:52]: I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria. Thank you, Mr. President. We thank the High Commissioner for his report we express our grave concern at the continuing violations of IHL and international human rights law against the Palestinian people, including the continuing violations of the ceasefire in Gaza. Algeria condemns the continuing illegal measures of the Israeli occupation the west bank, including East Jerusalem, aiming at instituting a new demographic, administrative and legal status quo that would in trench settlements. And this is in grave violation of international law, including the advisory opinion of the ICJ and run counter to the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to establish an independent state, sovereign state within the boundaries of 4 June 1967. The two state solution is a must to put an end to eight decades of injustice against the Palestinian people. In conclusion, we reiterate that nobody is above international law. Accountability and reparation are essential. HRC · Chair [3:11:34]: I thank you. This was the last speaker. We could accommodate this meeting. We shall now hear statements in exercise of the right of reply pertaining to the statements made today. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of United Arab Emirates. You have three minutes. United Arab Emirates [3:12:04]: Thank you. Vice President. The UAE would like to exercise its right of reply to one of the parties to the conflict in Sudan based on their groundless claims against my country. Instead of dedicating time to preserving the rights of the Sudanese people and engaging seriously in peace efforts at the international level, the SAF is still trying to steer attention away from its responsibilities towards civilians. What we're witnessing today is another maneuver to distract away from allegations as to war crimes that have been documented in official reports. Mr. Vice President, we have heard the briefing of the High Commissioner and various interventions by the distinguished speakers with regard to the responsibilities of the warring parties, the SAF and the RSF as to their obligations towards international law and ihl. The Sudanese armed forces have waged systematic attacks against hospitals, markets and schools using drones. In addition to credible evidence as to the use of chemical weapons, this record of atrocities includes extrajudicial executions as well as arbitrary detentions and sexual violence against women and girls. We are concerned regarding cases of sexual violence in areas controlled by the safety that targeted medical cadres and humanitarian volunteers which should tell the international community that the outcomes for the Sudanese people is not among the priorities of this warring party. We have condemned all of the violations by both sides of the conflict. But the person who spoke against my country did not touch on any of those atrocities. The same Warren party that I'm indicating here doesn't want to respond to his own links to extremist groups, including those affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood. We have reports saying that there's no such thing as independence in the Sudanese National Committee. They try to protect the members of the Sudanese armed forces, and there are other indications as to reneging on their own responsibilities. That party that is trying to accuse my country based on groundless statements is not heeding the importance of the future of Sudan after getting into power illegally, working with the rapid support forces, and impeded the humanitarian access and weaken systematically all peace initiatives that were presented by the international community. HRC · Chair [3:15:11]: Colleagues, this brings us to the end of the meeting. We will reconvene tomorrow at 9:30am to hear the global update by the High Commissioner and to continue the interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner's report on the human rights situation, situation in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, followed by the enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the Commission of Human Rights in South Sudan. I hereby declare the 9th meeting of the 61st session of the Human Rights Council closed.