Положение на Ближнем Востоке, включая палестинский вопрос - Совет Безопасности, 10046-e заседание Совет Безопасности Date: 17 November 2025 Language: English Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/ru/sc/10046?lang=en Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations. --- Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [0:02]: The 10,046th meeting of the Security Council is called to order. The provisional agenda for this meeting is the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. The agenda is adopted. In accordance with rule 37 of the Council's provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of Israel to participate in this meeting. It is so decided. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of item 2 of the agenda. Members of the Council have before them document S/2025/748, the text of a draft resolution submitted by the United States of America. The Council is ready to proceed. to the vote of the draft resolution before it. I now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements before the vote. I give the floor to the representative of the United States. United States of America [2:12]: Thank you, Mr. President. Colleagues, for two agonizing years, Gaza, home to over 2 million souls, has been a crucible of conflict, a hell on earth, where Hamas's brutality and terror met Israel's fierce response, leaving rubble where schools once stood and graves where playgrounds thrived. The death toll climbs into the tens of thousands. Hunger gnaws at the vulnerable, and hope flickers like a candle in the storm. But colleagues, here today, November 17th, we stand at a crossroads. Today, we have the power to douse the flames and light a path to peace. That path is the draft United Nations Security Council resolution before us, a bold, pragmatic blueprint born from President Trump's 20-point comprehensive plan. End the Gaza conflict, forged in the fires of diplomacy, with Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Turkey, Pakistan, and Indonesia. Those countries stood with President Trump right back here in this very chamber, right in this room. They stood with him during the UN General Assembly High-Level Week just eight weeks ago, and they have now publicly stood for this resolution. Over a dozen European heads of state, including the EU, the Secretary General, and Mahmoud Abbas stood with President Trump then at Sharm el-Sheikh after he presented his plan to the Israeli Knesset. So colleagues, I ask you before this vote, with this kind of support, I ask you if the region most affected, the Arab nations, the Muslim majority nations, the Palestinians and the Israelis can accept this resolution, how could anyone be against it? There's an old saying where I come from, "You can't be more Catholic than the Pope." I ask everyone today, are you more righteous in this cause than those who must live with it and will ultimately benefit from this plan for peace. This resolution, colleagues, is no mere paper promise. It's a lifeline. The resolution endorses a hard-won ceasefire. And I thank Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. I thank my dear friend Jared Kushner, who forged what so many people said was impossible. The hostages, the living hostages released. There are more still absolutely to go. with families suffering, but we have a ceasefire that is holding. Their plan has already silenced the guns and freed 45 hostages in this fragile, fragile first step. And let me be clear, the United States remains committed to ensuring that those remains, that the remains of the last three hostages held by Hamas must come home. The resolution authorizes the International Stabilization Force, a strong coalition of peacekeepers, many from Muslim majority nations like Indonesia, Azerbaijan, and others, to deploy under a unified command. These brave souls will secure Gaza's streets. They will oversee demilitarization. They will protect civilians, and they will escort aid through safe corridors, all while Israel phases out its presence. and a vetted Palestinian police force takes on a new role. At the heart of this plan, colleagues, lies the Board of Peace, a transitional administration with an international coordinating reconstruction financing from a dedicated trust fund backed by the World Bank itself to rebuild shattered lives, homes, hospitals, schools, That's what we will see with this plan and this resolution, not talking points, but actual deliverables. And crucially, per the carefully negotiated language in the 20-point plan, this resolution charts a possible pathway for Palestinian self-determination after the Palestinian Authority has completed the necessary reforms, where rockets will give way to olive branches, and there is a chance to agree on a political horizon. It dismantles Hamas's grip, it ensures Gaza rises free from terror's shadow, prosperous, and secure. Now, colleagues, we hear critics whispering of challenges. Russia has had a counter draft. We hear concerns over mandates, but colleagues, hesitation here is the true enemy. We've seen ceasefires crumble before. We cannot repeat the definition of insanity here by doing the same thing that was done before, and by returning to the same frameworks and same talking points that will do must to repeat this horror all over again. Delaying will cost lives, and every day without this force, aid trucks lie idle, children starve, and the extremists regroup to try to maintain control. So, colleagues, voting yes today isn't just endorsing a plan. It's affirming our shared humanity. It's telling Gaza's and Israel's mothers that the world has not forgotten them. Adopting this resolution today will prove the United Nations can still be a beacon and not just a bystander. Colleagues, the eyes of history and humanity are upon us right here, right now. A vote against this resolution is a vote to return to war. Time is not on the side of peace. This is not the time for endless debate and lawyering. The clock is ticking. like a time bomb. So let us vote for this resolution, not as a compromise, but as a covenant for the children of Gaza and for a peace that endures and for a Middle East reborn. Mr. President, I thank you. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [9:30]: I thank the representative of the United States for the statement. I shall put the draft resolution to the vote now. With those in favour of the draft resolution contained in document S/2025/748, please raise their hand. Those against? Abstentions? The result of the voting is as follows: 14 votes in favour, 0 votes against, 2 abstentions. The draft resolution has been adopted as resolution 2803/2025. I now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements after the vote. I give the floor to the representative of the United States. United States of America [11:30]: Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you to the Council members for this historic and constructive resolution. Thank you for joining us in charting a new course in the Middle East for Israelis and Palestinians and all the people of the region alike. I would like to additionally thank our partners from the President’s meeting during High-Level Week: Egypt, Qatar, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Türkiye, Indonesia, and Pakistan. We have all bound together, recognizing the urgency of the situation and for swift adoption to deny Hamas any opportunity to reconstitute and to ensure that the people of Gaza can be fed. Today's resolution represents another significant step towards a stable Gaza that will be able to prosper and an environment that will allow Israel to live in security. The Board of Peace, which will be led by President Trump, remains the cornerstone of our effort. The board will coordinate the delivery of humanitarian assistance, facilitate Gaza's development, and support a technocratic committee of Palestinians responsible for day-to-day operations of Gaza's civil service and administration while the Palestinian Authority fully implements its reform program. The resolution today provides troop-contributing countries with the framework they need for moving forward with the International Stabilization Force, and global financial institutions, the mechanisms they need for channeling investment, respectively. The former will support a region free from Hamas's grip, and the latter, Gaza's reconstruction and development. The path to prosperity, colleagues, requires security first. Security is the oxygen that governance, that development needs. to live and to thrive. The International Stabilization Force will stabilize the security environment, support the demilitarization of Gaza, dismantle terrorist infrastructure, decommission weapons, and maintain the safety of Palestinian civilians. We believe that the investment that will follow adoption today will revitalize Gaza's economy, providing Palestinians with an opportunity instead of saddling them with perpetual reliance on aid. We look forward to working alongside the World Bank to that end, as it supports Gaza's long-term redevelopment, even as we address the immediate and dire humanitarian needs. President Trump's historic 20-point plan marked the beginning of what will be a strong, stable, and prosperous region, united in rejecting the path of violence, hatred, and terror. Colleagues, and I say this to the world, this resolution today is just the beginning. An adoption of resolution today demonstrates the overwhelming support for the President's vision for a stable Gaza where Palestinians determine their own destiny, free from terrorist rule and violence. And under President Trump’s bold leadership, the United States will continue to deliver results alongside our many partners. We will seize the opportunity today to end decades of bloodshed and make lasting peace a reality, and we will work tirelessly with our partners, as we have over the last several months, to advance this vision for a more stable and prosperous Middle East. I thank you, Mr. President. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [15:21]: I thank the representative of the United States for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Nigeria. Algeria · Arab Group [15:33]: Thank you, Mr. President. At the outset, allow me to express our appreciation to the United States for presenting this draft resolution we just adopted, aimed at implementing the comprehensive plan endorsed by all parties. We extend our thanks to the U.S. leadership, and in particular to President Trump, whose personal engagement has been instrumental in establishing and maintaining a ceasefire in Gaza, thus bringing an end to the unbearable suffering endured by the Palestinian people for nearly two years. We acknowledged the efforts undertaken by President Trump in advancing peace worldwide, but we underline that genuine peace in the Middle East cannot cannot be achieved without justice, justice for the Palestinian people, who have waited for decades for the establishment of their independent state. Mr. President, Algeria has engaged in the negotiations of this resolution on behalf of the Arab Group and in close consultation close coordination with the Palestinian representatives. We submitted what we considered essential amendments to ensure balance and integrity in the text. Some of those proposals were taken on board, and we continued to engage until the end, both on behalf of the Arab Group and in our national capacity, to incorporate elements we believed would further improve the draft. It is worthy to recall that this text has received the support of broadly Arab and Muslim countries, whom, in full responsibility, have publicly endorsed the draft in its final version and called for its adoption. It is also worthy to recall that the Palestinian Authority, at the highest level, has openly welcomed the initiative and echoed the appeal to support the text. If Algeria has made it a solemn duty to stand consistently with Palestine, we have also pledged never, never to overstep this role. And above all, without engaging in any form of overstatement or one-upmanship, but rather to fully respect the choices and the decisions of the Palestinian people themselves and their representatives. Mr. President, In light of these elements, Algeria has finally decided to vote in favour of this text, a text that we support its core objective, namely the maintenance of the ceasefire and the creation of conditions enabling the Palestinian people to exercise their inalienable rights to self-determination and statehood. Allow me, Mr. President, to underline the following points. First, this resolution is one more piece in the broader mosaic that forms the United Nations doctrine on resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Previous resolutions remain fully valid and constitute the essential foundation of any future effort. Second, this resolution must be read in its entirety. Its annex is an integral part of it, and all parties must comply with it. It clearly affirms no annexation, no occupation, no forced displacement. Third, humanitarian aid must enter and be distributed throughout Gaza through the UN agencies and other humanitarian actors. Without interference, without interference, Israel can no longer impose restrictions that have contributed to the starvation of the Palestinian population in Gaza. Fourth, Gaza will be administered under a transitional arrangement by a technocratic Palestinian committee pending the return of the Palestinian Authority to assume its full responsibilities in the Strip, as outlined in the Comprehensive Plan. Fifth, the establishment of an international stabilization force is a major development. We believe it will, as mandated, first and foremost, provide protection to Palestinian civilians and enable the complete withdrawal of Israeli occupying forces from Gaza. Six, today, today, Gaza lies in ruins, and its population bears the deep scars inflicted by a devastating war machine. The time has come. The time has come for the reconstruction of Gaza with the support of the international community, the international financial institution, including the World Bank. Algeria, for its part, will stand ready to assume its responsibility and will contribute to the effort to rebuild civilian infrastructure in Gaza, solely for the benefit of the Palestinian people. Seven, Palestinian people are enduring immense suffering, not only in Gaza, but also in the West Bank, where settler terrorism has reached unprecedented levels. Dispossession, annexation, and the relentless expansion of settlement are eroding, day by day, the very prospects of a viable Palestinian state. Protection measures must therefore be extended to the West Bank as a matter of urgency. Accountability is equally indispensable. Security Council resolution 2334 must be fully and faithfully implemented. Eight. We hope We hope that the implementation of this peace plan will open a genuine horizon for the Palestinian people to realize their inalienable right to self-determination and to statehood, one that brings together the Palestinian people of Gaza and of the West Bank, and finally, finally puts an end to their suffering. The parameters of the solution are well known. They are clearly outlined in the New York Declaration. What is now required is a collective, sincere, and decisive will of the international community to implement them. Mr. President, Two days ago, the international community commemorated the 37th anniversary of the proclamation of the State of Palestine. That proclamation, made on the 15th of November 1988 in Algiers, still resonates with hope and dignity. Allow me to recall the words of late Yasser Arafat in the Palestinian Declaration of Independence, and I quote: "In its struggle to secure peace in a land that has always carried the names of love and peace. The State of Palestine calls upon the United Nations, entrusted with the special responsibility toward the Palestinian people and their homeland, and calls upon the peoples and nations of the world especially those who cherish peace and freedom, to help them achieve their just aspirations and bring an end to their long tragedy. This requires providing them with protection and working decisively to end the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories. We hope, we hope that those engaged in this process will remain faithful to this call, a call that echoes across generations and continues to guide the path toward a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. My country, Algeria, as stated several times by President Abdelmajid Tebboune, will remain steadfast in supporting such an endeavour. I thank you. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [28:46]: I thank the representative of Algeria for the statement, and I give the floor to the representative of the United Kingdom. United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland [28:55]: Thank you, President. The United Kingdom voted in favour of this resolution as a critical staging post in the implementation of the peace plan for Palestinians, Israelis, and the region, turning the page on two devastating years of conflict towards a lasting peace. Last month, the international community came together in Sharm el-Sheikh to deliver a strong message of support for President Trump's 20-point plan, as well as the diplomatic efforts of Qatar, Turkey, and Egypt. This resolution takes that plan forward and has the support of Arab and Islamic countries, which has been welcomed by the Palestinian Authority. We thank President Trump for his leadership, and the U.S. for bringing this resolution forward. It is right that we build on this momentum, so an international stabilisation force can be deployed quickly to support the ceasefire and to avoid a vacuum being left which Hamas can exploit. We must also substantially step up our work to support the UN humanitarian effort. That requires opening all crossings, and ensuring that aid agencies and international NGOs can operate without obstruction. We must help those in desperate need where they are, throughout Gaza. Humanitarian relief and reconstruction must take place across all parts of the Gaza Strip, and in a manner that prevents further displacement. We repeat our call for the urgent return of the remaining deceased hostages. President, the transitional arrangements that we embark on today must be implemented in accordance with international law and respecting Palestinian sovereignty and self-determination. This should strengthen the unity of Gaza and the West Bank and empower Palestinian institutions to enable a reformed Palestinian Authority to resume governance in Gaza. We also look forward to the urgent formation of a Palestinian committee alongside the Board of Peace as part of the transitional arrangements. The UK remains deeply concerned that deteriorating economic conditions in the West Bank, alongside increasing settler violence, could undermine progress in Gaza. President, the UK will continue to work with the US and all our partners to implement this resolution and to map a credible pathway to a just and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians alike, based on a two-state solution. I thank you. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [32:13]: I thank the representative of the United Kingdom for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Guyana. Guyana [32:22]: Mr. President, at the outset, Guyana recognizes and commends the efforts of Egypt, Qatar, Türkiye, and the United States in brokering the ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas following two years of a devastating war in Gaza, which claimed the lives of close to 70,000 persons and injured many more. That war was also a severe test for the entire region, with violence extending to several countries. Preserving the ceasefire deal is therefore critical for Palestinians, for Israelis, and for the stability of the entire region. Guyana therefore implores all parties to scrupulously abide by the commitments made. and to refrain from all actions that undermine those commitments. Mr. President, Guyana voted for the resolution just considered, as beyond preserving the ceasefire, building on the ceasefire deal is also critical. Guyana acknowledges that the comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict seeks to go beyond the cessation of hostilities and to chart a clear path for the recovery and reconstruction of Gaza. In this regard, Guyana stresses that efforts to this end must be rooted in the two-state solution, which must remain the centerpiece of all peace efforts in Palestine. The continuing occupation of the Palestinian territory is a violation of international law. bolstered by the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice of July 2024, which confirmed this and said that the occupation must be brought to an end. The Security Council therefore must ensure the tenets of international law are upheld. Mr. President, throughout the negotiation of the text, clarity regarding the role of the Palestinian Authority in the recovery and reconstruction of Gaza was important to my delegation. Guyana is of the firm view that the PA must have an integral role in these processes, and that role should not be subject to preconditions that are not measurable. We believe that this is also linked to retaining the centrality of the two-state solution as the only just, viable, and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian question. Operating from this premise will ensure that Palestinians exercise their right to self-determination. Further, the central role of the United Nations in the recovery and reconstruction process must be safeguarded. Mr. President, Guyana anticipates that with the adoption of this resolution, the implementation phase will prioritize identifying and building on the synergies between the comprehensive plan and other relevant frameworks, including the Arab Plan for the Early Recovery, Reconstruction and Development of Gaza, the New York Declaration, and all relevant UN resolutions on the question of Palestine. We urge that the interest of the Palestinian people remain paramount. I thank you. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [36:09]: I thank the representative of Guyana for the statement, and I will give the floor to the representative of Pakistan. Pakistan [36:18]: Mr. President, we thank the United States for tabling this resolution that welcomes and endorses President Trump’s comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict. and lays the groundwork for its implementation. Pakistan has voted in favor of this resolution with the primary objective, in the immediate term, to stop the bloodshed, to save the lives of innocent Palestinians, including women and children, to maintain the ceasefire, to ensure much-needed large-scale humanitarian relief, and to secure the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. President, the question of Palestine is at the core of the Arab-Israeli conflict. Pakistan's position on this issue has always been in line with and in support of Palestine and the Arab countries being the principal stakeholders in this dispute. Accordingly, our vote has been guided by the position of Palestine and the Arab Group, as well as the group of eight Arab Islamic countries, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Egypt, Jordan, Indonesia, Türkiye, and Pakistan, that came together in September in support of President Trump's commendable initiative to bring the war in Gaza to an end. We have welcomed that initiative because not only it got the ceasefire on ground, it subscribed to the need for humanitarian assistance, reconstruction, provision of a secure and stable environment, and the hope for a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood. President, throughout the negotiations on the draft resolution, Pakistan supported the proposals of the Arab Group submitted by Algeria, and also submitted our own amendments to make the text more balanced and in line with international legitimacy that governs the Palestinian question. We acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of the penholder, the United States, for incorporating some of our suggestions, including the call for maintenance of the ceasefire in OP1 and a reporting mechanism to the Security Council. Some important suggestions, however, were not reflected, such as a clear political path to Palestinian self-determination and statehood, the central role of the Palestinian Authority in governance and reconstruction, an enhanced involvement of the UN, besides clarifications about the Board of Peace and the mandate of the International Stabilization Force. Those are all crucial aspects with a bearing on the success of this endeavor. We earnestly hope that further details in coming weeks will provide the much needed clarity on these issues. President, after two years of devastating war and an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, where more than 69,000 innocent Palestinians have been killed, most of them women and children. A ray of hope emerged with the signing of the peace agreement at Sharm el-Sheikh, peace summit between Egypt, Qatar, Türkiye, and the United States. Pakistan, as a part of the group of eight Arab Islamic countries, welcomed the efforts by President Trump and his proposal to end the war, rebuild Gaza, prevent displacement of Palestinian people, advance comprehensive peace, and halt the annexation of the West Bank. We engaged with sincerity and constructively to help alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people and support a viable path to peace, stability, and realization of their inalienable right to self-determination and statehood. Pakistan's consistent policy And every action pursuant to it is for a just and lasting resolution of the Palestinian question based on international legitimacy, Palestinian self-determination, and the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and contiguous state of Palestine based on pre-1967 borders with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. That must be the ultimate objective. and the culmination of any peace process or initiative on the Middle East. Our position is firmly grounded in international law and relevant UN resolutions. Pakistan reaffirms its full support and solidarity with the Palestinian people and will continue to stand with them at every stage. We hope that the momentum generated by the ongoing peace efforts will help achieve these objectives and we call on the international community to uphold its obligations in this regard. President, allow me to underline our position on some key elements related to today’s resolution. First, the existing Security Council resolutions on the question of Palestine remain fully valid. This resolution shall not alter or diminish them. Second, the right to self-determination is inherent and unconditional. This right is enshrined in the UN Charter, applies equally to the Palestinian people, and cannot be subjected to any conditions. Third, as the resolution and the peace plan envisage, the Board of Peace is a transitional oversight mechanism. The mandate granted to the BoP by this Council is temporary and expires in 2027 unless renewed. Importantly, the executive and administrative authority in Gaza must remain with the Palestinians through a Palestinian committee. Fourth, we reiterate that the role of the Palestinian Authority is absolutely central and critical in this process. A legitimate Palestinian representation is essential for credible governance and genuine Palestinian ownership. Peace cannot be achieved in bypassing the Palestinians. There must be an end to policies that undermine and weaken the Palestinian Authority. Fifth, the establishment of the Temporary International Stabilization Force could truly be stabilizing if guided by a clear peacekeeping mandate consistent with UN norms. Disarmament should take place through an agreed political process, negotiated under a unified Palestinian national authority. It is also important that the ceasefire be fully respected by all sides. Unilateral violations of the ceasefire will threaten and thwart the entire process and must not be tolerated. Protection of the people of Gaza will be a key priority in the ISF mandate. Sixth, the reporting envisaged in the resolution constitutes a vital mechanism. It must be comprehensive and cover all aspects of implementation of the plan, including on the ISF mandate and activities. Seventh, Israeli troops must withdraw from Gaza, which is an essential requirement for restoring Palestinian sovereignty and securing durable peace. ISF mandate will only be effective once there is complete Israeli withdrawal. Eighth, there must be no annexation and no forced displacement under any circumstances. The territorial contiguity of the West Bank and Gaza is indispensable for a viable, sovereign, and independent state of Palestine. Finally, we believe that in order to break the cycle of violence, It is absolutely necessary to end the occupation and to have a political horizon, open the pathway to the Palestinian state through a credible, time-bound political process firmly anchored in the relevant UN resolutions. Durable peace and stability in the region will come only with the establishment of the Palestinian state as part of the two-state solution. President, Looking ahead, the central roles of the United Nations, the Palestinian Authority, and the Palestinian people are vital in ensuring legitimate governance, reconstruction, and institution building in Gaza. The international community must stand with them steadfastly and firmly. At this solemn moment in history, Pakistan stands shoulder to shoulder with the people of Palestine. Their suffering is anguish, their resilience is our pride, their aspiration our cause. The people of Gaza have endured what no human being should ever face, yet they have proudly and boldly upheld their dignity, identity, and hope. Their courage obliges us to act with moral clarity and sustained political commitment. Pakistan reaffirms that we will continue to support the Palestinian struggle and the right to self-determination, and until its realization, our solidarity will remain unwavering and our voice unshakable. I thank you. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [46:37]: I thank the representative of Pakistan for the statement, and I'll give the floor to the representative of Republic of Korea. Republic of Korea [46:45]: Thank you, Mr. President. Today, the Republic of Korea voted in favor of the draft resolution tabled by the United States. The Security Council has taken a significant step toward ending the Gaza conflict and supporting a just, lasting peace in the Middle East. The Republic of Korea appreciates the leadership and constructive efforts of the United States in achieving this important progress. With an official statement last month, the Republic of Korea warmly welcomed the ceasefire in Gaza through the comprehensive plan. Now, having taken a further step to consolidate and materialize this plan, we commend the tremendous efforts by the mediators, among others, United States, Egypt, Qatar, Türkiye, to end this war. Without such devotion, the suffering in Gaza and the region would have been even more intensified and protracted. We hope that today's adoption of this resolution and endorsement of the comprehensive plan will pave the way toward a better future for Gaza and the entire Middle East. At the same time, we underscore the need for the frame to continue evolving in a manner that delivers tangible, sustainable, and irreversible progress. Mr. President, the resolution adopted today includes important elements. We expect that the details of the resolution, such as the composition, timeframe, the work of the BoP and ISF, will be further developed and more practically operationalized in close engagement of the Security Council, ensuring its active involvement throughout the process. We all understand these elements are not complete. None of them can be easily accomplished, and there will be many challenges ahead. Thus, today's adoption is not the end, but it marks a new beginning of our collective efforts to lay down the foundation for just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in the Middle East. The international community, including the Security Council, should stay engaged in supporting a pathway that can transform this hard-won opportunity into meaningful reality on the ground, again, with the Council's constructive engagement, including regular reporting to it. It also urged the parties to the conflict to strictly abide by the agreement and its spirit under this resolution. Mr. President, it must be duly noted that the Security Council has consistently championed the two-state solution as the sole viable path toward lasting peace in the region. My delegation believes that all efforts should ultimately serve the the realization of the aspiration of Palestinians in both Gaza and West Bank, unified under the Palestinian Authority, as well as stability in the Middle East. The Republic of Korea, here and today, with honor, re-commits to its constructive engagement to this end. We sincerely hope that, based on this adoption, genuine peace, dignity, prosperity can eventually be realized for all. I thank you. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [50:58]: I thank the representative of the Republic of Korea for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Slovenia. Slovenia [51:05]: Thank you, Mr. President. Slovenia voted for this resolution because it is the best way to secure that the current ceasefire leads to a permanent peace. We supported the resolution because of the strong support of the countries of the region and potential future troops contributing countries. They are assuming the largest responsibility for the future of Palestine and Palestinians, and we listen to their appeal. We also voted yes because through this resolution, the Security Council is assuming its rightful supervisory role for the implementation of the peace plan. Colleagues, for two years, Slovenia has consistently called for an end to the Gaza war. Our calls throughout the war have been for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. Two years is not immediate, and clearly it is conditional. Mr. President, we thank the United States for presenting this resolution. and for the consultative process they steered, with a strong participation by the countries in the region. Their voices and the voice of Palestine played an important role in guiding today's decision of the Council. Colleagues, Slovenia approaches work at the Council with a heavy sense of responsibility. Throughout our term, we consistently called for a strong role of the Council. Many times we mention historical responsibilities, and this resolution surely falls under this category. In this vein, Slovenia remains convinced that clear terms of reference for the work of the Board of Peace, along with its composition, should be transmitted to the Council when available. While this resolution provides a framework, we understand many details will be agreed upon on the ground. and through a consultative process. We underlined the need for inclusivity, transparency, and good faith. We underlined the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, and the principle of territorial integrity affirmed by the Council. This translates into the Gaza Strip being unified with the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, under the Palestinian Authority. Slovenia believes that Palestinian Authority must assume full responsibilities in the Gaza Strip and calls on transitional arrangement to support this goal in a timely manner. We further believe that details for international stabilization force deployment and operation should be hammered out in close consultative process with potential troop contributing countries. We also believe the Council should be regularly briefed on the work of the Board of Peace and the International Stabilization Force, in addition to the mandated written reports. Mr. President, our calls in this war have first and foremost been calls for protection of civilians. We continue calling for lifting of all restrictions on humanitarian aid and humanitarian operations, including NGO registration and limitations to the work of UNRWA. obligations confirmed by the International Court of Justice. And finally, Slovenia reaffirms its unwavering support to the two-state solution: Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security. We therefore call on building the momentum and pursuing a tangible political process on the basis of the New York Declaration. I thank you. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [55:07]: I thank the representative of Slovenia for the statement. I’ll give the floor to the representative of France. France [55:14]: Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, France welcomes the commitment of the United States, the decisive efforts of which, carried out with Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, led to a ceasefire agreement, the release of hostages, and the resumption of humanitarian aid in Gaza. efforts which are reflected in this resolution 2803. France voted yes in order to meet the most urgent needs of the population, populations and to support the peace efforts on that are currently ongoing. Through this positive vote, France intends to support the political momentum which aims to bring a lasting end to the war in Gaza, to provide humanitarian aid commensurate with needs, to prevent a resurgence of violence, to restore security for the populations, and to create the conditions for a credible political horizon in Israel and in Palestine. The objectives pursued by this text meet some urgent needs, that is to ensure immediate widespread, unhindered humanitarian access throughout Gaza in coordination with the United Nations, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and international NGOs, in strict compliance with international humanitarian law, including with regard to the protection of persons who are not participating or no longer participating in hostilities and the principles of humanitarian action; the rapid deployment of a temporary international stabilization force mandated by the Security Council. the early recovery and lasting reconstruction of Gaza, as the enclave is currently in ruins after two years of war; the disarmament and demobilization of all armed groups, particularly Hamas; response to the legitimate security concerns of Israel, the response to the equally legitimate aspirations of the Palestinians to self-determination and to a Palestinian state, consistent with the recognition of a state of Palestine by France and by several of our partners. Mr. President, the implementation of this resolution should be framed in a clear political and legal context, following on from relevant Security Council resolutions, the internationally agreed parameters, and the New York This political framework is based on three pillars. Firstly, the implementation of the two-state solution, democratic sovereign states, Palestine and Israel, living side by side in peace and security within safe and recognized borders based on the 1967 lines, including in terms of Jerusalem. Secondly, the swift return of a reformed and strengthened Palestinian Authority in Gaza with the support of the international community and the exclusion of Hamas from any role in the governance of the enclave. Thirdly, the unity of Gaza and West Bank, both integral parts of the territory of the Palestinian state. In this regard, any demographic or territorial change to the enclave or any occupation of Gaza are excluded. In the West Bank, the pursuit of the settlement building policy represents a serious violation of international law and threatens the prospect to a two-state solution. This framework is based on the fundamental principles of international action, in particular respect for international law, international humanitarian law, and international human rights law, as well as the right to self-determination for the Palestinian people. We will continue to defend these principles consistently and with conviction, as they are rooted in international law and they should guide our collective action in the implementation of this resolution, both at the Security Council and on the ground. Mr. President, by voting in favor of this resolution presented by the United States today, France is choosing responsibility, responsibility towards the civilian populations. who have a right to protection and whose lives have been shattered, towards a region that aspires to regain peace and stability. We commend the engagement of the United States, and we call on all parties to uphold their commitments, including with regard to international law, without delay. For its part, this Council must remain fully engaged in supporting these efforts and to implement its decisions. It should be ready to meet without awaiting the reports mandated by this resolution, depending on the development on the ground in order to ensure the proper progress through these stages, in particular the proper deployment of the Temporary International Stabilization Force. This is essential for establishing lasting peace and stability. Thank you. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [59:54]: I thank the representative of France for the statement, and I'll give the floor to the representative of Somalia. Somalia [1:00:01]: Thank you, Mr. President. We have voted in favor of this draft resolution. and extend our appreciation to the United States as penholder for its leadership and constructive consultations that have taken place throughout this process. Our support for this text reflects our enduring commitment to the Palestinian cause and our determination to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people. We commend President Trump's 20-point plan and creating a board of peace. as set out in the resolution and its endorsement by the participating states at the Sharm el-Sheikh conference, which enjoys the backing of eight Arab and Islamic countries. We regard the establishment of an international stabilization force as an important step towards civilian protection and stabilization on the ground, as well as broader political efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace. At the same time, we must register our serious concern regarding the absence of explicit reference to the two-state solution, which has been long supposed to be the only viable option for the peace between Israel and Palestine. We believe it’s crucial and critical that the path toward a comprehensive peace explicitly reflects this established international parameter. We also note with concern limited clarity in the text regarding the role of United Nations, humanitarian assistance, as well as the role of the Palestinian Authority, in the governance arrangement toward a single, unified Palestinian state. A just and lasting peace can only be achieved by recognizing and upholding the two-state solution, which remains the foundation for a comprehensive resolution to the conflict. We are convinced These are central to any credible and sustainable solution. We reaffirm our solidarity with the Palestinian people and reiterate our steadfast support for the realization of an independent and sovereign state of Palestine, with Al-Quds al-Sharif as its capital, in accordance with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions. Our delegation stands ready to work with the international community to ensure that this opportunity is not lost and that peace in the occupied Palestinian territory and the wider region becomes not just a possibility, but a reality. I thank you. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [1:02:46]: I thank the representative of Somalia for the statement, and I'll give the floor to the representative of Greece. Greece [1:02:52]: Thank you, Mr. President. Today is an important day for peace in the Middle East. At long last, after two years of bloodshed and suffering, this Council endorses a plan for peace. The bloodshed triggered by Hamas terrorist attacks of October 7, 2023, can finally come to an end. We were all greatly relieved that all living hostages were released and returned to their homes after two years of Hamas captivity. This outcome comes thanks to the diplomatic leadership demonstrated by the U.S. and its unwavering commitment towards a diplomatic solution. Mr. President, history will take note of our collective decision here today. Since Greece first took up its position in the Security Council, we have been consistent in our calls for a ceasefire, for the safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid at scale, and for the reinvigoration of the political process. The resolution just adopted lays the foundation for delivering on all the above. It prepares a path for a political process leading to the realization of the two-state solution, where Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace and security. It constitutes but the start of the process, opening the path for Palestinian self-determination and statehood as stipulated in the comprehensive plan. Importantly, as the plan stipulates, no one will be forced to leave Gaza. May the peoples of the region suffer no more, and may they finally live in sustainable peace, for they have suffered too much. Gaza's reconstruction and development is now also visible on the horizon, an empowered and reformed Palestinian Authority should return to the Strip as soon as possible and be in a position to exert effective control over Gaza and the West Bank. Greece, along with its European, Arab, and other partners, will spare no efforts to support the reform process of the PA. Hamas will have no role in any form in the governance of Gaza. May its terror never again be unleashed upon the Israeli people or undermine peace in the whole region. The now mandated international stabilization force must work with Egypt and Israel and see to the effective training of the vetted Palestinian police force to be able to secure border areas, stabilize the security environment in Gaza, and protect civilians. A long-time friend of Israelis and Palestinians, Greece will study the modalities of the ISF as they unfold. In this regard, we are willing to play an active role, and we stand ready to contribute to Gaza's reconstruction and stabilization efforts. Mr. President, Peace in the Middle East is a conceivable, achievable outcome, one which could lead to a more prosperous, safe, and more interconnected Middle East. This resolution endorses the plan to end the Gaza conflict and lays the framework to achieve enduring peace, security, and prosperity. The path before us is laid out. All parties must now tread it courageously. because peace lies at its end. It is a path worth treading. I thank you. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [1:06:49]: I thank the representative of Greece for the statement, and I'll give the floor to the representative of Denmark. Denmark [1:06:56]: Thank you, Mr. President. After two years of brutal conflict in Gaza, the guns were finally silenced as the ceasefire entered into force on October 10th. a long-awaited pause that offers renewed hope after immense suffering and hardship. Our hope is that Israelis and Palestinians alike can now finally begin recovering from the horrors of war and the devastation it has caused. Denmark voted in favor of this resolution in support of President Trump's comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict. We extend our sincere appreciation to the United States Qatar, Egypt, and Türkiye for their relentless efforts to secure an agreement on a ceasefire and the first phase of the plan under extremely difficult circumstances. This plan represents our best opportunity to bring about lasting peace in the Middle East. A peace in which civilians in Gaza can live in dignity and safety. A peace in which Palestinians can shape their own future and where Gaza is reunited with the West Bank under a reformed Palestinian Authority as part of a two-state solution. A peace in which Israel is secure from terrorism and Palestinians and Israelis live side by side in stability, coexistence, and mutual security. Mr. President, bringing the Gaza peace plan to the Council was a welcome decision. And we thank the United States for the engaged approach during the negotiations. Throughout the negotiations, Denmark has worked consistently and constructively to arrive at the best conditions for this peace to be sustainable, just, and all-encompassing. In this regard, we would have liked to see greater clarity on the role and composition of the Board of Peace and the International Stellabased Stabilization Force in the resolution. Going forward, It will be essential to ensure that the implementation of the resolution takes place in full compliance with international law and the mandate given today, and in accordance with the Palestinian right to self-determination, as we have consistently raised during negotiations. It will be important for the Council to follow up on this mandate, and we welcome the reporting obligation of the Board of Peace to the Council. It remains key to ensure unhindered access for humanitarian aid to Gaza, which should be delivered in accordance with international humanitarian law and in line with the humanitarian principles by the UN-led humanitarian system, which is best placed to undertake this monumental task. In this spirit, we believe that the resolution lays out a credible path towards peace that the region urgently needs. The region has voiced its full support And Denmark has listened. Mr. President, today, Denmark has voted with hope and with humility, but also with a sense of optimism. We hope that this resolution will mark the first step towards a future in which peace is no longer negotiated in this chamber, but lived day by day in two states in a region that can finally fulfill the potential that has been hindered by war for far too long. I thank you. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [1:10:23]: I thank the representative of Denmark for the statement, and I'll give the floor to the representative of Panama. Panama · Permanent Representative [1:10:31]: Thank you very much, Mr. President. Panama recognizes the leadership of the United States and is grateful for the diplomatic efforts that it has shown in proposing and coordinating the text of the resolution that has been adopted by this Council today. And we endorse the plan to end the conflict and to achieve peace, endorsed by President Donald Trump, which stands as an annex to the resolution and is an integral part thereof. The perfect is the enemy of the good. Panama voted in favor of this resolution presented by the United States and supported by Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Jordan, Pakistan, and Türkiye, because even recognizing the urgent need to comprehensively address the political and security causes that have prevented a sustainable solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for decades, We place at the heart of our position the Israeli and Palestinian populations and the scale of the suffering and devastation that they are facing today. The war over the last two years triggered following the devastating attacks perpetrated by Hamas on the 7th of October 2023, which Panama has repeatedly condemned. led to the tragic reality that Gaza is living today. We reiterate that the future of Gaza must be forged without the presence and control of Hamas. The current situation on the ground demands an urgent response that prioritizes security, integration, and the protection of the civilian Gazan and Israeli populations. Therefore, we believe that the resolution proposed by the United States that has been adopted by this Council today represents a first necessary step to consolidate the ceasefire, to reinforce vital humanitarian assistance, and to support international efforts geared towards ensuring the reconstruction and to forge a different path to that of the Palestinian people in Gaza. native land has known for too long. Likewise, we recognize and we reiterate our support for the crucial work carried out by United Nations agencies in the protection and assistance provided to the civilian population, including in the most difficult circumstances, and we underscore the need to guarantee their access, security, and operational capacity in the Palestinian territory. Mr. President, turning now to Panama's position, we understand that Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, are integral parts of the future Palestinian State, in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the Security Council and international law. For this reason, we reiterate that the only sustainable path involves a solution that would allow the people of Palestine and Israel to live side by side in two states in peace, security, and dignity for both, within mutually recognized borders that are fully respected. Panama will continue to work with all actors supporting actions and initiatives such as the resolution that has been adopted today to build on this basis in order to preserve the ceasefire, to protect the civilians, and to keep open all paths to a political solution that would promote a just, dignified, and lasting solution. Thank you. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [1:14:48]: I thank the representative of Panama for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of the Russian Federation. Russian Federation [1:14:59]: Mr. President, the Russian Federation abstained on the Security Council draft resolution prepared by the United States. This draft is something we just couldn't support. We value the US's efforts and those of other intermediaries, thanks to which it was possible to halt the active phase of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and to prevent mass starvation. It helped to achieve the ceasefire, the release of Israeli hostages, and of arbitrarily detained Palestinians, as well as to conduct an exchange of the remains of those who perished. We see that these efforts are valued both in the Middle East and throughout the world. Having said that, when we're discussing Security Council decisions, the Security Council being the principal charter body tasked with maintaining international peace and security, well, we shouldn't forget the responsibility incumbent upon the Security Council. That is precisely why, since the very start of negotiations on the draft, we have consistently insisted on Security Council members being granted a statutory role with the requisite instruments of accountability and control. Moreover, we took as our starting point the fact that the resolution must reflect a generally recognized international legal foundation, reasserting the fundamental decisions and principles, in particular that cornerstone formula: two states and two peoples. After all, this is the very approach that was approved by an overwhelming majority in the New York Declaration, adopted following two fora in support of the two-state solution. Colleagues, this is not a theoretical, but a very practical issue. And it's particularly relevant given the fact that we've had an ambiguous public statements coming from the highest echelons of Israel's leadership, stating that it is unacceptable to establish a Palestinian state. Unfortunately, these key components did not make it into the US draft. It also lacks any clarity about the time frames for transfer to the Palestinian Authority of control over Gaza, any certainty surrounding the Board of Peace and the International Stabilization Force, the ISF, which, according to the text of the resolution we adopted, would appear to be able to act absolutely autonomously without any regard for the position nor the opinion of Ramallah. This may entrench the separation of the Gaza Strip from the West Bank. It is reminiscent of colonial practices and the League of Nations British Mandate for Palestine, when the opinion of Palestinians themselves was not taken into account. There are also questions about the mandate of the international force. According to President Trump's plan, it didn't state that plan that the ISF would be involved in demilitarizing Gaza, nor disarming local groups using all available means. However, in the resolution, the mission is endowed with these peace enforcement tasks, which could actually transform it into a party to the conflict going beyond the confines of peacekeeping. As far as we understand, not a single one of the potential troop contributing countries agreed to this. Having said that, we would like to note that Security Council members were in practice not given the time to do the work in good faith, nor to find compromises. Arm-twisting in capitals and the twisting of delegations' arms here in New York can hardly be called working in good faith. To summarize, the US document is yet another pig in a poke. In essence, the Council is giving its blessing to a US initiative on the basis of Washington's promises, giving complete control over the Gaza Strip to the Board of Peace and the ISF, the modalities of which we know nothing about so far. The main thing is that this document shouldn't become a fig leaf for unbridled experiments conducted by the US and Israel in the occupied Palestinian territory. It's important for it not to turn into a death knell for the two-state solution. Russia took note of Ramallah’s position, as well as that of many other Arab and Muslim countries, which spoke in favor of the U.S. draft so as to avoid a resumption of bloodshed in the enclave. Therefore, we decided not to introduce our own draft, the objective of which was to modify the US concept so as to bring it into line with long-standing agreed UN resolutions. But there is no cause for celebration. Today is a sorrowful day for the Security Council. Aside from what the interested parties want, there's also the notion of the integrity of the Security Council, and today, by adopting this resolution, this integrity and the prerogatives of the Security Council were undermined. In this instance, we wish to be proven wrong. We hope that we can count on the U.S. demonstrating its peacekeeping potential in practice, the potential which can be assessed by to what extent the US manages to achieve sustainable peace whereby Israel and Palestine would coexist in peace and security within 1967 borders, with Jerusalem becoming the capital of both states as per Security Council resolutions and General Assembly resolutions as well, the norms of international law, and prior agreements, reflecting both Israelis' interests in ensuring their own security and the rights of Palestinians to their own state. Now, the implementation of President Trump's plan falls squarely on the shoulders of its authors and supporters. First and foremost, those of the group of Arab Islamic states. The group of eight Arab Islamic states. Regrettably, we've already had the unfortunate experience of seeing solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict pushed through by the United States, bringing about the opposite result of what was intended. Don't say we didn't warn you. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council [1:21:57]: I thank the representative of Washington Federation for the statement. I give the floor to the representative of China. China [1:22:05]: Thank you, President. Gaza, brutalized by two years of war, is a land of ruins in dire need of rebuilding. Over 2 million people continue to live in deprivation and struggle in displacement. China supports the Security Council in taking all necessary actions to achieve a lasting ceasefire, relieve the humanitarian disaster, and launch post-war reconstruction to rekindle the hope peace and development for the people in Gaza. But regrettably, the draft resolution that was just voted on is lacking in many respects and is deeply worrisome. First, the draft resolution is vague and unclear on many critical elements. The penholder requests the Council to authorize the establishment of a border of peace and international stabilization force. which will play a key role in post-war governance in Gaza. It should have explained in detail their structure, composition, terms of reference, and criteria of preparation, among others. This should have been an essential basis for Council’s serious discussions. However, the draft resolution contains skimpy details on these critical elements. Despite repeated requests, from Council members for more information, no response has been forthcoming from the penholder. Second, the draft resolution doesn't demonstrate the fundamental principle of Palestinians governing Palestine. Gaza belongs to the Palestinian people, not to anyone else. Any post-war arrangements must respect the will of the Palestinian people and give full play to the vital role of the Palestinian National Authority. The draft resolution outlines post-war governance arrangements for Gaza, but it seems Palestine is barely visible in it, and the Palestinian sovereignty and ownership are not fully reflected. Of particular concern is that the draft resolution fails to explicitly reiterate a firm commitment to the two-state solution as an international consensus. Third, the draft resolution doesn't ensure effective participation of the UN and its Security Council. The draft resolution requests the Council to authorize the BOP to assume full responsibility for the civil and security arrangements in Gaza, but it stipulates no oversight or review mechanism beyond biannual written reports. The UN has ample experiences and capacities in post-conflict recovery and economic reconstruction, and should therefore play a vital role in Gaza’s post-war governance, but no such arrangement is made in the draft resolution. Fourth, the draft resolution is not a product of full consultations among Council members. Less than two weeks after introducing the draft resolution, the penholder rushed the Council into making a critical decision on the future and destiny of Gaza. The Council members responsibly engaged in consultations, raising a lot of constructive questions and suggestions, but most of them were not taken on board. While there remained major concerns and serious differences among members, the penholder forced the Council to take action on the draft resolution. We are deeply disappointed at such an approach, which is disrespectful to the Council members and hurts the Council’s unity. President, notwithstanding the above-mentioned many issues in the draft resolution and China’s major concerns about it. Considering the fragile and severe situation in Gaza, the imperative of maintaining ceasefire, and the positions of the regional countries and Palestine, China abstained in the vote. It must also be noted that our concerns and worries remain. The Security Council must maintain close attention to the situation in Gaza and the Palestinian question. The Palestinian question lies at the heart of the Middle East issues. It is a matter about international equity and justice. The international community must steadfastly advance a two-state solution and pursue political settlement of the Palestinian question. It means establishing an independent Palestinian state with full sovereignty on the basis of 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, therefore realizing the Palestinian people's right to statehood, survival, and return. China has always firmly supported the just cause of the Palestinian people in restoring their legitimate national rights. We stand ready to work with the international community to make unremitting efforts for a comprehensive, just, and lasting solution to the Palestinian question. Thank you, President. Sierra Leone · President of the Security Council; Representative [1:27:43]: The representative of China for the statement. I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of Sierra Leone. Colleagues, Sierra Leone thanks the United States for coordinating the process that culminated in the tabling of the resolution just adopted by the Council. We further thank President Donald J. Trump for his leadership And we also thank the other mediators, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, for their commendable efforts. Syria voted in favor of resolution 28/03. We did so mindful of our responsibilities as a member of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, and of our longstanding support for a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, grounded in international law, the protection of civilians, and a negotiated two-state solution with an independent, viable, and contiguous state of Palestine, living side by side with Israel in peace and security. Our vote also took careful account of the fact that the draft has been accepted by the Palestinian Authority and has received support from a number of states in the region that are closely engaged with the peace effort. Their views and their readiness to work with this framework were an important consideration for Sierra Leone in assessing whether the resolution could, if implemented in good faith, contribute to de-escalation and create a space for a political process. Throughout the negotiations, Sierra Leone was guided by four core principles: first, safeguarding the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination; second, ensuring the protection of civilians and unhindered humanitarian access; third, anchoring any stabilization measures in a clear, lawful, and time-bound framework that restores legitimate Palestinian governance; and fourth, preserving regional peace and security in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations. Colleagues, we attach particular importance to the legal effects of decisions of this Council. On matters within its mandate under the Charter, the Security Council may create binding obligations for Member States, by virtue of the consent already given by all members to accept and carry out its decisions. In doing so, the Council can contribute to the progressive development and codification of international law relating to the maintenance of international peace and security. At the same time, the Council's authority is not without limits. It is constrained by the Charter by pre-emptory norms of general international law, jus cogens, which admits no derogation. Among these pre-emptory norms is the right of peoples to self-determination, as elaborated by the International Law Commission and affirmed by the jurisprudence of the International Court of Justice. The Council cannot lawfully extinguish, suspend, or condition such a right. It is therefore Sierra Leone's clear understanding that nothing in this resolution impairs qualifies or defies the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and to an independent state. That right exists independently of any peace plan, governance arrangement, or reform program. In accordance with the advisory opinions of the International Court of Justice on the legal consequences of Israeli policies and practices in the occupied Palestinian territory, the United Nations, including this Council, is called upon to operationalize that right not to postpone it or dilute it. Against this background, we interpret the references in the resolution to a future pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood as reaffirming and not conditioning the existing right of the Palestinian people. Any benchmarks concerning governance or reform can only relate to the manner in which the right is exercised in practice, not to its existence in law. The resolution establishes a Board of Peace as a transitional governance administration and authorizes the deployment of an international stabilization force in Gaza. Seylon engaged constructively on these aspects and submitted language, including a more explicit reference to Chapter VII, aimed at clarifying that the Council is not endorsing any form of substitution of one occupying authority by another. not creating a new, open-ended international administration detached from international law and from the legitimate aspiration of the Palestinian people. Although not all of our proposals were incorporated in the final text, we wish to place on record our understanding of its legal implications. First, we regard the Board of Peace as transitional in nature. It is a temporary framework intended to help stabilize Gaza, facilitate the implementation of the peace agreement, and support the re-establishment of legitimate Palestinian governance. It does not and cannot alter the status of the occupied Palestinian territory, nor confer or transfer sovereignty. Second, we understand the Council to be acting in substance under its Chapter VII responsibilities for the maintenance of international peace and security, particularly with respect to authorizing the International Civilisation Force. The powers conferred on the ISF must be exercised in accordance with international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law. Third, the Board of Peace and the ISF function within and not outside the framework of the law of occupation and the applicable rules on international responsibility. Any actor exercising effective control over territory or persons, whether a state or a mandated entity, bears corresponding legal obligations and potential accountability. We underline that, as concerns the situation prior to this resolution, the international legal responsibility of the State of Israel continues to subsist. In particular, Israel’s obligations as the occupying power persist with respect to: the investigation and prosecution, as appropriate, of alleged atrocity crimes; the protection of the human rights of Palestinians, including those in detention; the dignified return of the remains of the deceased, and the continuing illegality under international law of settlement activities in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. We further reaffirm the unity and contiguity of the occupied Palestinian territory, comprising the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip, as recognized in previous resolutions of this Council and the General Assembly. Nothing in this resolution may be interpreted as fragmenting that territorial integrity or prejudging final status issues which must be resolved through negotiations in line with international law. On the question of permanent sovereignty over natural resources, so it recalls the longstanding resolutions of the General Assembly and the position of this council affirming the right of the Palestinian people to permanent sovereignty over their natural resources including land and maritime resources in the occupied Palestinian territory. We regret our proposed language explicitly affirming this right was not retained in the final text. We therefore place on record that we understand that right to remain fully applicable and unimpaired. Colleagues, our vote in favor reflects a careful, considered balance. The resolution is not without shortcomings, and it does not fully reflect all Sierra Leone's preferences and proposals. As said by the permanent representative of Panama, as the French philosopher Voltaire aptly puts it, and I quote, "The perfect is the enemy of the good." End of quote. However, taking as a whole and bearing in mind its acceptance by the Palestinian Authority and the support expressed by key states in the region. We have the view that the resolution contains elements, if implemented in good faith and in full conformity with international law, can help consolidate the ceasefire, strengthen the peace agreement, improve humanitarian access, and create conditions for early recovery and reconstruction in Gaza, while contributing to regional stability. Our support is therefore accompanied by clear expectations that the ceasefire will be respected and strengthened, That civilians, wherever they are, will be protected in accordance with international humanitarian law. That all parties will implement the peace agreement in good faith and in a spirit of compromise. And a transitional arrangement will lead within a defined timeframe to unified, legitimate Palestinian governance over occupied Palestinian territory. And that credible, irreversible steps be taken towards a just, comprehensive, and lasting political settlement based on a two-state solution and the full realization of the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination. Israel will continue to support all genuine efforts within and outside the Council to end the current cycle of violence and to advance a just peace that delivers security and dignity for both Palestinians and Israelis, in line with international law and the purposes and principles of the United Nations. I thank you. I resume my function as President of the Council. There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. The meeting is adjourned.