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I am briefing you today from Geneva at the end of the 4^th day of the 7^th Session of the Small Body of the Syrian Constitutional Committee. The Committee has been meeting since Monday this week and concludes with its 5^thand final day of meetings of this session tomorrow – on Friday.

TOR WENNESLAND

UN SPECIAL COORDINATOR FOR THE MIDDLE EAST PEACE PROCESS

SECURITY COUNCIL BRIEFING ON THE SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST

REPORT OF THE SECRETARY-GENERAL

ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF UNSCR 2334 (2016)

22 March 2022

Madam President,

Members of the Security Council,

On behalf of the Secretary-General, I will devote this briefing to presenting his 21^st report on the implementation of Security Council resolution 2334 (2016), covering the period from 10 December to 18 March.

Madam President,

Security Council resolution 2334 (2016) calls on Israel to “immediately and completely cease all settlement activity in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem” and to “fully respect all of its legal obligations in this regard.” No such steps were taken .

On 5 January, Israeli authorities published tenders for some 300 settlement housing units in the Talpiyot East neighborhood in East Jerusalem.

On 10 and 24 January, the Jerusalem District Planning Committee advanced plans to build some 800 and 400 housing units respectively in the East Jerusalem settlement of Gilo.

On 17 January, the same Committee advanced a plan for some 1,200 housing units next to Ramat Rachel in the southern Jerusalem area, a significant number of which are intended for construction in East Jerusalem.

On 1 February, following an official land survey, Israel’s Attorney-General published a legal opinion allowing authorities to declare land in the outpost of Evyatar as “state land” and authorizing accelerated planning procedures for the establishment of a settlement there.

On 28 February, the Jerusalem District Planning Committee advanced a plan for some 700 housing units in the East Jerusalem settlement of Pisgat Ze’ev.

Demolitions and seizures of Palestinian-owned structures continued across the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Citing the absence of Israeli-issued building permits, which are almost impossible for Palestinians to obtain, 216 structures were demolished or seized by Israeli authorities or demolished by their owners to avoid costly Israeli demolition fees. These actions displaced 299 people, including 138 children and 76 women. A total of 37 structures demolished or seized were donor-funded.

In an effort to reduce tensions, Israeli authorities reportedly decided to freeze most demolitions in East Jerusalem before and during the month of Ramadan.

Tensions were high in the East Jerusalem neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah in the run-up to 19 January, when Israeli forces evicted a Palestinian family and demolished their home. Twelve Palestinians were displaced including two children and three women, with several arrests reported. Israeli authorities stated that the demolition was undertaken to build a special needs school to serve Palestinian children.

Tensions mounted further in February over the potential eviction by Israeli authorities of a Palestinian family scheduled for March. Following weeks of numerous violent altercations, protests, and property damage in the neighborhood, the atmosphere calmed somewhat after a 22 February decision by an Israeli Magistrates Court to suspend the eviction, pending consideration of an appeal submitted by the family. In developments that further reduced tensions, Israel's Supreme Court ruled on 1 March that four other families in the neighborhood would not be evicted and would be recognized as “protected tenants,” paying a nominal rent, until a determination is made on their claims to ownership. On 3 March, the families held a press conference noting the importance of the Supreme Court's decision and vowing to continue pressing their claims for ownership of their homes.

Madam President,

Security Council resolution 2334 (2016) calls for “immediate steps to prevent all acts of violence against civilians, including all acts of terror, as well as all acts of provocation and destruction.” Unfortunately, daily violence continued.

Overall, 24 Palestinians, including four children, were killed by Israeli security forces (ISF) during demonstrations, clashes, security operations, attacks and alleged attacks against Israelis, and other incidents. 2966 Palestinians, including five women and 537 children, were injured. Of these, 2283 injuries were due to tear gas inhalation, while 50 were injured by live ammunition. In addition, Israeli settlers or other civilians perpetrated 144 attacks against Palestinians resulting in 47 injuries and/or damage to Palestinian property.

One Israeli civilian was killed by Palestinians, and 100 Israelis, including five women and one child, were injured by Palestinians in clashes, rock and Molotov cocktail throwing, attacks and other incidents. In total, Palestinians perpetrated 277 attacks against Israeli civilians resulting in injuries and/or damage to Israeli property.

On 5 January, a vehicle under the supervision of the Israeli police hit and severely injured a 70- year-old Palestinian man in Umm al-Kheir, south of Hebron. The man later died. Israeli police officers present at the location did not intervene to provide medical assistance to the victim. Police reported that the driver had sustained head injuries from stones thrown at him by other Palestinians present in the area.

On 12 January, an 80-year-old Palestinian-American man died in the context of an ISF operation near Ramallah where the victim was reportedly handcuffed, blindfolded and assaulted by ISF. Following an internal investigation, on 31 January, the Israel Defense Forces removed two officers from their positions and reprimanded a third. A criminal investigation is ongoing.

On 8 February, ISF shot and killed three Palestinians in a car in Nablus, in Area A. The Fatah-affiliated Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades claimed the men as members. According to Israeli authorities, the three were members of a cell that had carried out attacks on Israeli forces, were planning additional attacks, and tried to shoot at ISF during the incident.

On 22 February, a 13-year-old boy died after being shot by ISF in al-Khader area, near Bethlehem. There are conflicting reports about whether the boy was throwing stones or a Molotov cocktail when he was shot.

On several occasions, Palestinians were shot and killed by ISF, reportedly in the context of attempted attacks, including on 21 December near the Mevo Dotan settlement, southwest of Jenin; on 22 December near al-Amari Refugee Camp; on 31 December near Salfit; and on 17 January near Hebron. Palestinians were also killed during exchanges of fire or clashes with ISF on 13 December in Nablus; on 6 January at the Balata Refugee Camp; on 1 March in Jenin and Bethlehem; and on 15 March in Qalandiya.

On 28 February, clashes erupted at Damascus Gate in Jerusalem’s Old City, where hundreds of Palestinians had gathered to celebrate the Islamic holiday of al-Israa wa al-Miraj. Reportedly, 37 Palestinians were injured, including a six-month-old infant and an 11-year-old girl with a disability, who was reportedly hospitalized after being struck in the head by a sound grenade. Twenty Palestinians were arrested, mostly children between ages 14 and 17. Israeli police stated that Palestinians had “chanted incitement and threw stones and bottles at police on the scene.”

On 6 March, a 15-year-old Palestinian was shot by ISF in Abu Dis, near Jerusalem, reportedly after throwing a Molotov cocktail at Israeli soldiers. The boy later succumbed to his wounds.

On 6 March, a Palestinian stabbed an Israeli police officer in the Muslim Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City, wounding him, and was subsequently shot dead by ISF.

On 7 March, a Palestinian stabbed and injured two Israeli police officers near the entrance of the Holy Sites in Jerusalem’s Old City, before being shot dead by ISF. Video of the incident shows a police officer shooting the man while he was on the ground after having been already shot. Hamas later claimed the man as a member.

On 15 March, ISF shot and killed a 16-year-old Palestinian boy in the Balata Refugee Camp during clashes that developed following an arrest operation.

Settler-related violence remained significant across the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. On several occasions, ISF and Israeli settlers clashed, including in the context of demolitions of unauthorized structures in outposts which are also illegal under Israeli law.

Beita village, near Nablus, remained a flashpoint for clashes, amid ongoing Palestinian demonstrations against the nearby Evyatar settlement outpost. During clashes on 10 December, a Palestinian man was shot and killed by ISF. On 4 February, 47 Palestinians were injured, including four by live ammunition; another 36 were injured on 18 February, including a ten-year old boy shot in the head with a rubber-coated metal bullet.

Areas in and around Burqa village, also near Nablus, saw serious confrontations. On 16 December of a 25-year-old Israeli man was shot and killed by Palestinians near the evacuated settlement of Homesh. On 19 December, Israeli security forces arrested six Palestinians in Silat al Harthiya, near Jenin, on suspicion of involvement in the attack; three were later charged. That same day, hundreds of settlers attempted to enter Homesh and set up illegal structures, clashing with ISF and breaking through their barricades. Later, on 1 March, eight Israelis were arrested in connection with these events. From 23 to 25 December, repeated raids by Israeli settlers on Burqa led to clashes between Palestinians and ISF in which at least 160 Palestinians were injured, including 14 by live ammunition. On 13 February, a 16-year-old Palestinian was shot and killed by ISF in Silat al-Harithiya near Jenin amid clashes that erupted after Israeli forces entered the village to demolish the family home of one of the suspected perpetrators of the December shooting.

On 21 January, adjacent to Burin village near Nablus, Israeli settlers injured five Israeli activists involved in a tree planting activity with local Palestinians. On 7 February, three Israeli settlers from Givat Ronen were arrested and demolition orders were issued on structures in the settlement.

On 24 January, Israeli settlers drove a convoy through Huwwara, near Nablus, throwing stones at Palestinians and their property. Three Palestinians, including a 17-year-old, were injured. On 16 February, Israel announced the arrest of 17 Israelis in connection with this incident.

On 25 February, an Israeli civilian shot and injured two Palestinian men following a car accident near Hizma checkpoint.

On 2 and 3 March, two Israeli civilians were stabbed and injured in Hizma town, near Jerusalem. ISF subsequently arrested a Palestinian suspected of carrying out one of the attacks.

In Gaza, Palestinian militants launched two rockets and one instance of launching incendiary balloons towards Israel. No injuries or fires were reported. In response, Israeli forces carried out three air strikes on what they said were military targets in the Strip, resulting in no injuries.

On 29 December, a Palestinian opened fire towards the Gaza perimeter fence, injuring an Israeli civilian. In retaliation, Israeli forces fired several tank shells at what they said were Hamas observation posts in Gaza. Four Palestinians were injured, including a 16-year-old boy.

On 1 January, Israel Defense Forces said that two rockets fired from Gaza had landed off the coast of Israel. In response, Israeli forces conducted air strikes against what they said were militant facilities in Gaza. No injuries were reported.

Madam President,

Security Council resolution 2334 (2016) calls for the parties to refrain from acts of provocation, incitement and inflammatory rhetoric. Some Palestinian and Israeli officials continued to engage in such activity during the reporting period.

In a highly provocative move in Sheikh Jarrah in East Jerusalem at the height of tensions over a potential eviction, a far-right member of the Israeli Knesset set up a makeshift office in the neighborhood. Several Members of Knesset visited the neighborhood, expressing support for him, while others encouraged his inflammatory actions. In separate statements, the same Member of Knesset also expressed hope that Palestinian hunger strikers would die and that any Palestinian who throws a stone “get a bullet in the head.”

In the wake of the killing of three Palestinians by ISF in Nablus, Fatah social media pages encouraged Palestinians to increase “confrontation” with Israel. Hamas also called for increased clashes with Israeli forces throughout the occupied West Bank. Some PA officials denied the Jewish connection to the region and to the Holy Sites in Jerusalem.

Madam President,

Resolution 2334 (2016) reiterated calls by the Middle East Quartet for “affirmative steps to be taken immediately to reverse negative trends on the ground that are imperiling the two-State solution.” The reporting period witnessed some progress on civil and economic steps, with instances of high-level official engagement.

On 27 December, the State of Qatar announced that it had signed an agreement with the Palestinian Authority and the Gaza Electricity Distribution Corporation to advance construction of a natural gas pipeline from Israel to Gaza. The pipeline aims to increase electricity generation at the Gaza Power Plant.

In Gaza, during the reporting period, the Israeli authorities authorized issuing permits to some 12,000 Palestinian merchants and traders. In January, the daily movement of workers, traders, and businesspeople through the Erez crossing was the highest since the tightening of the Israeli closures of Gaza in 2007.

In February, technical-level trilateral meetings on the Gaza Reconstruction Mechanism (GRM) between the PA, the Government of Israel and the UN resumed, with steps identified to improve the mechanism. In a welcome development, white cement, long deemed a dual-use material, began entering Gaza without any special monitoring.

There was a marked increase in the movement of goods out of Gaza in recent months, peaking in January with over 900 truckloads passing through the Kerem Shalom crossing to the West Bank, Israel and other countries. This is the highest monthly figure recorded since 2007, and it comes close to the rates that had existed prior to it, as well as significantly above pre-May 2021 rates.

The UN continues to highlight to the Israeli Government priority items to enter Gaza, largely for UN health, water and sanitation, and other projects – some requested over a year ago. Significant delays in approvals, including dual-use materials under the GRM, impact all aspects of UN operations in Gaza, the economy and the lives of ordinary people in Gaza.

With funding from Qatar, the gradual reconstruction of housing units totally destroyed during the May 2021 escalation – to date, some 115 households – has begun. Meanwhile, UNRWA has completed the repair of nearly 7,000 housing units and is currently working with 700 families whose homes were totally demolished.

On 28 December, UNRWA announced the start of a cash assistance allocation of USD 8.2 million to families whose homes were damaged during the May 2021 escalation.

In the occupied West Bank, some actions by the Israeli authorities have contributed to some reduction in tensions.

On 11 December, the Palestinian Central Election Commission (CEC) conducted the first phase of local council elections in several hundred small communities in the West Bank, with over 66 per cent of eligible voters participating.

On 12 January and 17 February, the CEC concluded voter registration and candidate nomination periods for the second phase of local council elections scheduled for 26 March. However, on 17 January, the Palestinian Cabinet postponed local council elections in Gaza.

From 6 to 9 February, the Palestinian Central Council (PCC) met for the first time since 2018, electing a new leadership for the Palestinian National Council and new members for vacant positions in the PLO Executive Committee. In its final statement, the PCC called for a halt to security coordination and the suspension of the recognition of Israel until it recognizes the Palestinian State based on the June 1967 lines and halts settlement activity, reiterating decisions from the previous PCC meeting. 

Madam President,

In its resolution 2334 (2016), the Security Council called upon all States “to distinguish, in their relevant dealings, between the territory of the State of Israel and the territories occupied since 1967.” No such steps were taken during the reporting period.

Resolution 2334 (2016) also called upon “all parties to continue, inter alia, to exert collective efforts to launch credible negotiations.”

On 14 January, the Envoys of the Middle East Quartet met virtually to discuss the latest political developments and the situation on the ground.

On 19 February, the Foreign Ministers of Egypt, France, Germany and Jordan met in Munich and expressed their commitment to support all efforts to achieve a comprehensive peace “on the basis of the Two-State Solution, in accordance with international law, relevant UN resolutions and agreed parameters.”

On 9 March, the Egyptian, Jordanian and Palestinian Foreign Ministers met on the margins of the ministerial meeting of the League of Arab States in Cairo to discuss efforts to launch negotiations aimed at reaching a comprehensive and just settlement of the conflict.

Madam President,

In closing, allow me to share the Secretary-General’s observations concerning implementation of the provisions of Security Council Resolution 2334 (2016) during the reporting period.

1. I remain deeply concerned by the continued settlement advancement by Israel in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Settlement expansion continues to fuel violence in the OPT, further entrenching the occupation, undermining the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and independent statehood, and eroding the possibility of establishing a contiguous and viable Palestinian State. Some 670,000 Israeli citizens currently reside in over 130 illegal settlements and over 100 outposts in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. I am particularly concerned about the increasing settlement advancements in and around East Jerusalem. Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, have no legal validity and constitute a flagrant violation of United Nations resolutions and international law and are a serious impediment to peace. I urge the Government of Israel to cease all settlement activity immediately.

2. The continued demolitions and seizures of Palestinian-owned structures, including internationally funded humanitarian projects remains deeply concerning. Demolitions affect not only residential structures but also those related to income generation and the provision of essential services. I call upon the Government of Israel to end the demolition of Palestinian-owned property and the forcible displacement and eviction of Palestinians, in line with its obligations under international humanitarian and international human rights law.

3. I remain particularly concerned by the potential eviction of several Palestinian families from homes they have lived in for decades in the Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighborhoods of occupied East Jerusalem. Many legal cases, initiated by settler organizations, invoke an Israeli law by which Israelis - but not Palestinians - may claim lands they owned prior to 1948. I note Israeli court rulings during the reporting period which have postponed or suspended such evictions, contributing to a reduction in tensions on the ground. As demonstrated in recent weeks, forced evictions, especially in such politically sensitive areas, can trigger dangerous tensions and violence. Demolitions and evictions entail numerous human rights violations and raise concerns about the risk of forcible transfer.

4. I am deeply troubled by the continued loss of life and serious injuries, including children, in the OPT and the overall deterioration of the security situation, including an apparent increase in shooting attacks during the reporting period.

5. The possible excessive use of force by Israeli security forces continues to raise serious concerns, particularly the use of live ammunition. Security forces must exercise maximum restraint and use lethal force only when it is strictly unavoidable in order to protect life. I am particularly appalled that children continue to be injured and killed. Children should never be the target of violence or put in harm’s way. I urge Israeli authorities to conduct thorough, prompt, effective, and transparent investigations into these killings and injuries.

6. I remain deeply concerned by the levels of settler-related violence in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Israel, as the occupying Power, has an obligation to protect the Palestinian population there against all acts or threats of violence and ensure, as far as possible, public order and life. I am also deeply concerned by attacks by Palestinians against Israeli civilians. I underscore that all perpetrators of violence must be held accountable and swiftly brought to justice.

7. I am particularly alarmed by the high number of arrests by ISF of Palestinians, including of children, particularly in occupied East Jerusalem. I am concerned that the arrests, in particular of children, may represent a disproportionate response to the offences allegedly committed. Under international law, the arrest and detention of children should be used only as last resort and for the shortest appropriate period of time.

8. I urge all sides to refrain from actions that could further escalate the situation across the OPT and call on all political, religious and community leaders to help reduce tensions, particularly in Jerusalem.

9. I am deeply concerned that at a highly sensitive moment on the ground, officials on both sides continue to stoke tensions and take actions that have the potential to provoke more deadly violence. Acts of terror, violence and incitement must be clearly and unequivocally condemned by all. Officials on all sides have a responsibility to avoid any actions that may escalate tensions.

10. Palestinians continue to suffer in Gaza, under Hamas rule and under continued Israeli closures. I welcome the parties’ recent engagement on easing access – including for workers from Gaza and the West Bank into the Israeli labor market. I am encouraged by the growing volume of goods exiting Gaza, which clearly surpasses previous years. Nevertheless, more significant steps are needed to see durable economic benefits. I hope the resumption of technical-level trilateral meetings on the GRM will facilitate reconstruction and much-needed development projects, leading to reduced aid dependency.

11. The fiscal condition of the Palestinian Authority remains precarious. Revenues are not keeping pace with expenditures, leading to accumulated debt; and investment in important sectors – including health, education and infrastructure – are insufficient. To address the root causes of the recurring fiscal crisis, PA internal reforms and improvements in the economic relationship between Israel and the PA are needed, alongside donor support. To this end, I welcome the current work of the IMF mission to support the PA’s important work on fiscal stability and reform.

12. The UN is grateful to all donors who continue to support UNRWA's crucial work. I am concerned as UNRWA will already face critical cashflow challenges in the coming three months. Any reduction or disruption of services has the potential to trigger significant humanitarian, political and security consequences, impacting the broader region. As Muslims in the region start the Holy month of Ramadan, I appeal to all donors to advance as much as possible, disbursement of confirmed pledges. Preserving UNRWA services is a joint responsibility of all Member States."

13. As we endeavor to support the critical needs of Palestinians across the OPT, it is also vital that we continue working towards advancing intra-Palestinian unity as it is central to advancing a two-State solution. The UN stands firm in its support of Egyptian-led intra-Palestinian reconciliation efforts. The holding of general elections in the OPT would be a crucial step towards Palestinian unity, giving renewed legitimacy to national institutions, including a democratically elected Parliament and Government in Palestine.

Madam President,

In closing, let me add that we have regrettably seen little progress in the implementation of Security Council resolution 2334 since its adoption in December 2016. On the contrary, the absence of a meaningful peace process to end the Israeli occupation and resolve the conflict is fueling a dangerous deterioration that is destabilizing the situation across the OPT.

In just a week, as Ramadan begins, thousands of Muslims will come to pray at the Muslim Holy Sites in Jerusalem, with the Jewish and Christian faithful following soon after to mark Pesach and Easter in April. This should be a time of peaceful reflection, prayer and celebration for all religions. Provocations must be avoided. Leaders on all sides have a critical role to play in ensuring calm.

We must keep in sight, in line with relevant United Nations resolutions, international law and bilateral agreements, the vision of an end to the occupation and of two States – Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, viable and sovereign Palestinian State– living side-by-side in peace and security, within secure and recognized borders, on the basis of the pre-1967 lines, with Jerusalem as the shared capital of both States.

I remain actively engaged in advancing these efforts with my counterparts in the Middle East Quartet, key regional partners and Israeli and Palestinian leaders.

Thank you.

Every month I draw your attention to the fact that Syrians across the country – and those who are displaced - are facing poverty and hunger at levels higher than at any point in the conflict.

TOR WENNESLAND

SPECIAL COORDINATOR FOR THE MIDDLE EAST PEACE PROCESS

BRIEFING TO THE SECURITY COUNCIL ON THE SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST

23 February 2022

(As delivered)

Mister President,

Members of the Security Council,

This month has witnessed a worrying continuation of the trends I have outlined repeatedly in this Council, particularly the destabilizing deterioration of the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

Across the West Bank, daily violence continues; tensions in East Jerusalem and the refugee camps are mounting and settler violence remains a serious concern. Illegal settlements and planning processes are steadily advancing, alongside demolitions and evictions, including in and around Jerusalem.

These factors are increasing the territorial fragmentation of the West Bank, undermining the Palestinian Authority and further eroding the prospects for peace.

Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority continues to face a prolonged financial crisis, which severely undermines its capacity to deliver services, and has crippled the economy. Economic and political reforms driven from inside the Palestinian Authority are a critical first step to changing this situation. The PA must be strengthened, and the international community should support actions to this end.

High-level dialogue between the Israeli and Palestinian leadership has led to welcome commitments and some economic steps, but these efforts must be rapidly turned into substantial, durable achievements and significantly expanded alongside policy changes by both sides.

Recent efforts by Israel to reduce settler violence in the West Bank and avoid further provocative steps in Jerusalem are well-noted

In Gaza, a fragile calm currently prevails. But absent fundamental change, this is only temporary. Hamas control of the Strip, Palestinian divisions and the Israeli closure regime are creating a generation who have experienced multiple wars and humanitarian crises and who have few prospects for a better life. In line with resolution 1860 (2009), Israel should further ease restrictions on the movement of goods and people to and from Gaza, with the goal of ultimately lifting them.

Mr. President,

Daily violence continued throughout the Occupied Palestinian Territory during the reporting period.

In the occupied West Bank, six Palestinians, including two children, were killed by Israeli security forces (ISF) during demonstrations, clashes, search-and-arrest operations, attacks and alleged attacks against Israelis, and other incidents, and 205 Palestinians, including 25 children, were injured. Israeli settlers or other civilians perpetrated 55 attacks against Palestinians resulting in 18 injuries and/or damage to Palestinian property.

In all, nine Israeli civilians, including at least one woman and two children, and eight Israeli security personnel were injured by Palestinians in clashes, shooting, stabbing and ramming attacks, the throwing of stones and Molotov cocktails, and other incidents. In total, Palestinians perpetrated 108 attacks against Israeli civilians resulting in injuries and/or damage to Israeli property.

On 8 February, Israeli Security Forces (ISF) entered Nablus, in Area A of the occupied West Bank, and shot and killed three Palestinians in a car. According to Israeli authorities, the three were members of a cell that had carried out attacks on Israeli forces, were planning additional attacks and tried to shoot at ISF during the incident. The Fatah-affiliated Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades later claimed the men as members. The Palestinian Cabinet and Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the killing, calling it an assassination and demanding an international investigation. Palestinians across the West Bank protested the killing and a general strike was announced in some areas.

On 13 February, a 16-year-old Palestinian boy was shot and killed by ISF in the village of Silat al-Harithiya, near Jenin. The boy was killed amid clashes that erupted after Israeli forces entered the village to demolish the family home of one of the perpetrators of a December shooting attack that killed an Israeli civilian.

On 15 February, a 19-year-old Palestinian man was shot and killed by ISF in Nabi Saleh village, near Ramallah. The incident occurred near an Israeli checkpoint in a confrontation between ISF and youths, where the man was reportedly shot in the back.

On 18 February, during demonstrations in Beita village, near Nablus, 26 Palestinians were injured, including four by live ammunition. Two of the injured were first responders from the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS).

On 22 February, ISF shot a 13-year-old Palestinian boy in al-Khader area near Bethlehem. ISF evacuated the boy who was later pronounced dead. According to conflicting reports, the boy was either throwing stones or a Molotov cocktail when shot.

All loss of life is deeply regrettable, and I reiterate that children must never be the target of violence or put in harm’s way. Security forces must exercise maximum restraint and use lethal force only when it is strictly unavoidable in order to protect life.

Mister President,

Settler-related violence remained a concern throughout the reporting period.

On 21 January, adjacent to Burin village near Nablus, settlers injured five Israeli activists involved in a tree planting activity with local Palestinians, set one of their vehicles ablaze and damaged another. On 7 February, three residents of the outpost of Givat Ronen were arrested for suspected involvement in the attack.

On 24 January, Israeli settlers drove a convoy through the Palestinian town of Huwwara, near Nablus, throwing stones at Palestinians, their vehicles and shops, and causing significant damage. Three Palestinians, including a 17-year-old boy, were injured. Israeli police opened an investigation and on 16 February announced the arrest of 17 Israelis in relation to the incident.

Following these incidents, several senior Israeli Government members and Members of Knesset condemned the violence carried out by settlers and pledged to act against it.

I note such constructive statements and urge tangible action in line with Israel’s obligation, as the occupying power, to ensure the safety and security of the Palestinian population.

I reiterate that perpetrators of all acts of violence must be held accountable and brought swiftly to justice.

Mister President,

Turning to settlement advancements, on 24 January, the Jerusalem District Planning Committee advanced plans for some 400 new housing units in place of an existing 80 units in the settlement of Gilo in occupied East Jerusalem.

On 1 February, Israel’s Attorney-General published a legal opinion allowing Israeli authorities to advance plans for a settlement in the partially evacuated outpost of Evyatar and authorizing accelerated planning procedures for this purpose. The opinion was issued following a land survey by Israel’s Civil Administration. Advancement of the plan requires a decision by Israel’s Defense Minister.

I reiterate that all settlements are illegal under international law and remain a substantial obstacle to peace.

Mister President,

Israeli authorities demolished, seized or forced owners to demolish 72 Palestinian-owned structures in Area C and seven in East Jerusalem, displacing 73 Palestinians, including 32 children. The demolitions were carried out due to the lack of Israeli-issued building permits, which are nearly impossible for Palestinians to obtain.

I remain particularly concerned by the potential eviction of a number of Palestinian families from homes they have lived in for decades in Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan in occupied East Jerusalem.

On 30 January, Israeli authorities authorized the eviction of a Palestinian family comprising 11 people, including four children, from their home in Sheikh Jarrah during the month of March. In the wake of this decision, tensions increased in the neighborhood, with numerous reports of violent altercations and damage to property. The already-sensitive situation escalated on 13 February, when a far-right Israeli Knesset Member set up a makeshift office near the family’s home and called for supporters to come to the neighborhood. On 22 February, an Israeli court suspended the eviction pending consideration of an appeal by the family, and contingent on the family’s depositing some USD 8,000 as collateral.

I call on Israeli authorities to end the displacement and eviction of Palestinians and approve additional plans that would enable Palestinians to build legally and address their development needs.

Mister President,

From 6 to 9 February, the Palestinian Central Council met for the first time since 2018, electing a new leadership for the Palestinian National Council and new members for vacant positions in the PLO Executive Committee. In its final statement, the PCC called for a halt to security coordination and the suspension of recognition of Israel until it recognizes the Palestinian State based on the June 1967 borders and halts settlement activity, reiterating decisions from the previous PCC meeting.

I again underscore that the fiscal condition of the Palestinian Authority remains dire. Revenues are not keeping pace with needed expenditures, leading to accumulated debt, and investment in important sectors including health, education and infrastructure is virtually non-existent.

Urgent action is required by the PA, Israel and donors to avert the fiscal collapse of the PA and to pave the way for long-term fiscal reforms.

To this end, I welcome the current work of the IMF mission to support the PA’s important work on fiscal stability and reform. The IMF is expected to provide its report to the AHLC later in the spring.

I also welcome ongoing efforts by Israel to facilitate greater access for Palestinian workers from Gaza and the West Bank to the labor market in Israel, which should be continued.

Mister President,

Turning to Gaza, the further easing of restriction on access of materials into Gaza remains a key priority.

I welcome the parties’ engagement in this regard over the past weeks, including the entry of white cement to Gaza required for reconstruction, but more needs to be done.

The UN continues to highlight to the Government of Israel priority items that need to enter Gaza, largely for United Nations health, water and sanitation projects – some of which were requested over a year ago. Significant delays in approval of items under the Gaza Reconstruction Mechanism (GRM) impact humanitarian operations and should also be resolved without delay.

I hope the resumption of technical-level trilateral meetings on the GRM will lead to improvements to facilitate reconstruction and much-needed development projects.

I urge both parties to build on recent momentum to continue to enhance access and trade.

I am, however, concerned that recent steps taken by Hamas authorities risk compromising the Palestinian banking system, with potential repercussions for humanitarian and development activities conducted by the international donor community.

With funding from Qatar, the gradual reconstruction has begun of housing units that were totally demolished during the May 2021 escalation, thus far reaching some 115 households. Reconstructing destroyed homes remains a priority and needs to be scaled up. Similarly, UNRWA has completed the repair of nearly 7,000 housing units and is currently working with 700 families whose homes were totally demolished with the help from the US and Germany.

Let me reiterate the Secretary-General’s call to provide UNRWA with predictable, sustained and sufficient funding to provide essential assistance to Palestine refugees in the region. If we act early enough in the year, we can prevent a financial crisis of the scale of last year and the risk that millions of refugees be left without education, health services and lifesaving cash and food assistance. Any reduction or disruption of services can have significant humanitarian, political and security consequences for the region and beyond. Preserving UNRWA services is a joint responsibility of all UN Member States.

Mister President,

Turning to the region, while the ceasefire between Israel and Syria has been generally maintained, the situation remains volatile with continued violations of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement by the parties. This includes firing by the Israel Defense Forces into the area of separation and the continued presence of the Syrian armed forces in the area of separation. It is important that the parties respect their obligations under the Agreement and support the liaison with UNDOF to de-escalate the situation during heightened tensions.

In Lebanon, following a three-month stalemate, the Cabinet reconvened on 24 January and shortly thereafter passed the 2022 state budget, now with Parliament for approval. Preparations are ongoing for the 15 May parliamentary elections, although resources have not yet been fully allocated.

The situation in the UNIFIL area of operations remained relatively calm notwithstanding a number of incidents. UNIFIL remains engaged with the parties to contain incidents and defuse tensions, including through a tripartite meeting on 11 February.

Mister President,

While we have seen some encouraging economic initiatives, we must push beyond the paradigm of managing, rather than resolving the conflict. Economic steps alone – while essential and desperately needed – will not put us on the path toward a just and lasting peace. There is no substitute for a legitimate political process that will resolve the core issues driving the conflict.

Nevertheless, we must begin somewhere. There is a need for a package of incremental steps – which are significant and durable – that would reflect a more coherent strategy to strengthen the Palestinian Authority and clearly chart the way toward a two-State reality.

Getting there requires political leadership. I urge Israelis, Palestinians, regional States and the broader international community to take firm action to enable the parties to re-engage on the path towards meaningful negotiations.

Only an end to the occupation and the achievement of two States, living side by side in peace and security, based on the 1967 lines, in line with UN resolutions, international law and previous agreements, will resolve this conflict.

I remain actively engaged in advancing these efforts with my counterparts in the Middle East Quartet, key regional partners and Israeli and Palestinian leaders.

Thank you.

Let me at the outset stress that Syrians continue to suffer deeply and that violence in Syria is indeed continuing.

TOR WENNESLAND

UN SPECIAL COORDINATOR FOR THE MIDDLE EAST PEACE PROCESS

BRIEFING TO THE SECURITY COUNCIL ON THE SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST

19 January 2022

(As delivered)

Madam President, Foreign Minister Huitfeld,

Excellencies,

Members of the Security Council,

In my recent briefings, I have highlighted the ongoing deterioration of the economic, security and political situation across the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT). Regrettably, this trend continues and urgent steps are required to prevent the situation from worsening.

The Palestinian Authority’s (PA) fiscal situation continues to be dire, threatening its institutional stability and its ability to provide services to its people. Violence continues unabated across the OPT, including settler violence, leading to numerous Palestinian and Israeli casualties and increasing the risk of a broader escalation. Settlement activity, demolitions, and evictions also continue, feeding hopelessness and further diminishing prospects for a negotiated solution.

We must be frank about what is needed to reverse these trends and provide momentum towards a reinvigorated peace process. Piecemeal approaches and half measures will only ensure that the underlying issues perpetuating the conflict continue to fester and worsen over time. Unilateral steps and conflict drivers must stop. Political and economic reforms must be implemented to ensure the PA’s continued ability to function effectively, while boosting donor confidence and support.

Above all, efforts by the parties and the international community to stabilize and improve conditions on the ground should be linked to a political framework.

Without a realistic prospect of an end to the occupation and the realization of a two-State solution based on UN resolutions, international law and previous agreements, it is only a matter of time before we face an irreversible, dangerous collapse and widespread instability.

Madam President,

Daily violence continued throughout the Occupied Palestinian Territory during the reporting period.

In Gaza, on 29 December, a Palestinian opened fired towards the Gaza perimeter fence, injuring an Israeli civilian. In retaliation, Israeli forces fired several tank shells at what they said were Hamas observation posts in the northern Gaza Strip. Four Palestinian civilians were reportedly injured, including a 16-year-old boy.

On 1 January, Israel Defense Forces announced that two rockets fired from Gaza had landed off the coast of central Israel. Israeli forces subsequently carried out air strikes against what they said were facilities belonging to militant groups in Gaza. No injuries were reported.

In the occupied West Bank, six Palestinian men, were killed by Israeli security forces (ISF), and another died in unclear circumstances, in the context of demonstrations, clashes, search-and-arrest operations, attacks and alleged attacks against Israelis, and other incidents, and 249 Palestinians, including four women and 46 children, were injured. Settlers and other Israeli civilians perpetrated 28 attacks against Palestinians, resulting in six injuries and damage to property. Two Palestinians were killed under unclear circumstances involving Israeli civilian vehicles.

In all, Palestinians perpetrated some 89 attacks against Israeli settlers and other civilians, resulting in 15 Israeli civilians injured and damage to property in clashes, shootings, stabbing and ramming attacks, as well as incidents involving the throwing of stones and Molotov cocktails and other incidents. Five members of Israeli security forces were also injured.

On 21 December, a Palestinian man, who reportedly attempted to carry out a ramming attack against ISF near the Mevo Dotan settlement in the northern West Bank, was killed by ISF.

On 22 December, a Palestinian man was killed by ISF near al-Amari refugee camp near Ramallah. According to ISF, the man had opened fire from a vehicle at Israeli forces conducting a search-and-arrest operation in the area.

On 31 December, a Palestinian man reportedly attempted to carry out a stabbing attack against Israeli soldiers and civilians near the village of Salfit and was shot by ISF, later succumbing to his wounds.

On 6 January, a 21-year-old Palestinian man was killed during armed exchanges with ISF as they conducted a search-and-arrest operation in the Balata Refugee Camp near Nablus, in Area A.

On 5 January, a tow truck under the supervision of the Israeli police hit and severely injured a 70-year-old Palestinian activist man in Umm al-Kheir, south of Hebron, during a police operation to confiscate unregistered vehicles. The man subsequently died from his injuries on 17 January. Police reported that the driver was injured in the head by stones thrown at him and required medical attention.

On 12 January, an 80-year-old Palestinian man died in the context of an ISF operation near Ramallah where the victim was reportedly handcuffed, blindfolded and physically assaulted by the ISF. According to Israel Defense Forces, the man was released alive. I note that Israeli authorities have initiated an investigation and call for a swift, thorough and transparent outcome.

On 17 January, ISF reported that a Palestinian man attempted to stab a soldier with a knife near Hebron. ISF shot and killed the alleged assailant. No ISF injuries were reported. Another Palestinian, who had driven the vehicle of the alleged assailant, later handed himself over to ISF.

Madam President,

Settler-related violence remained a serious concern throughout the reporting period.

From 23 to 25 December, 156 Palestinians were injured by Israeli forces from rubber bullets and 15 from live ammunition in confrontations that erupted in and around Burqa, near Nablus, after settlers repeatedly raided the village, vandalized property and clashed with local residents. This occurred as part of settler protests against the killing of an Israeli settler in that area on 16 December and demands to reestablish the adjacent settlement of Homesh that had been officially evacuated in 2005.

On several occasions during the reporting period, ISF and Israeli settlers clashed in the context of ISF efforts to dismantle unauthorized structures set up by Israeli settlers in Homesh and other outposts, illegal also under Israeli law.

All perpetrators of violence must be held accountable and brought swiftly to justice.

Madam President,

Turning to settlement-related developments, on 5 January, Israeli authorities postponed a planned discussion on objections to two plans for some 3,500 housing units in the controversial E1 area in the West Bank. A new date for the discussion has not been set.

The same day, Israeli authorities published tenders for some 300 settlement housing units in the Talpiyot East neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem.

On 10 January, the Jerusalem District Planning Committee advanced a plan, pending revisions, to build some 800 housing units in place of an existing 182 units in the East Jerusalem settlement of Gilo.

On 17 January, the Jerusalem District Planning Committee advanced a plan for some 1,200 housing units next to Kibbutz Ramat Rachel in the southern Jerusalem area, a significant number of which are intended for construction across the Green Line in East Jerusalem.

I reiterate that all settlements are illegal under international law and remain a substantial obstacle to peace. I call on the Government of Israel to cease the advancement of all settlement activity immediately.

Madam President,

Israeli authorities demolished, seized, or forced owners to demolish 54 Palestinian-owned structures, in Area C and 23 in occupied East Jerusalem, displacing 102 Palestinians, including 26 women and 47 children. The demolitions were carried out due to the lack of Israeli-issued building permits, which are nearly impossible for Palestinians to obtain.

On 19 January, Israeli forces evicted a Palestinian family and demolished their home in the occupied East Jerusalem neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah, displacing 12 Palestinians, and reportedly resulting in a number of arrests. According to the Jerusalem Municipality, the structures were built illegally in recent years and the land was cleared to build a special needs school to serve Palestinian children from East Jerusalem.

I still remain concerned by the potential eviction of a number of Palestinian families from homes they have lived in for decades in the Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighborhoods of East Jerusalem and the risk that such actions pose for escalating violence.

I call on Israeli authorities to end the displacement and eviction of Palestinians, in line with its obligations under international law, and to approve additional plans that would enable Palestinian communities to build legally and address their development needs.

Madam President,

On 28 December, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas met with Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz for the second time in four months. Following the meeting, Israel announced several measures, including updating the registration of some 9,500 Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza, an advance of 100 million Israeli Shekels against clearance revenues Israel collects on the PA’s behalf and additional entry permits for Palestinian officials and businesspeople.

I welcome the ongoing high-level engagement between Israeli and Palestinian officials and the recent steps announced. I urge both sides to continue and expand this engagement to encompass underlying political issues.

Following the designation by Israel of six Palestinian NGOs as terrorist organizations, the United Nations continues to engage with all relevant parties to receive more information about the allegations and their implications.

On 12 January, the Palestinian Central Elections Commission (CEC) concluded voter registration for the second phase of local council elections scheduled for 26 March. However, on 17 January, the Palestinian Cabinet postponed local council elections in Gaza over procedural disputes.

On 14 January, the Envoys of the Middle East Quartet met virtually to discuss the latest political development and the situation on the ground.

Madam President,

Turning to Gaza, during the month of January 2022, Israeli authorities completed the issuance of permits to some 10,000 Gazan merchants and traders, of some 12,000 approved permits, the highest number in years.

I welcome the stated willingness of the Government of Israel, in line with commitments made in the November 2021 at the AHLC meeting in Oslo, to increase the movement of goods and people in and out of the Strip and the steps taken in this regard. At the same time, I reiterate that more such moves are needed for durable economic benefits to materialize. I urge both parties to engage with the UN to find concrete ways to further enhance access and trade, including facilitating the entry of dual-use materials for key sectors of the economy under the Gaza Reconstruction Mechanism.

On 27 December, the State of Qatar announced that it had signed an agreement with the Palestinian Authority and the Gaza Electricity Distribution Corporation to advance construction of a natural gas pipeline from Israel to Gaza. The pipeline aims to reduce costs and increase efficiency and electricity generation at the Gaza Power Plant. I urge all parties to facilitate implementation of this important project.

On 28 December, UNRWA announced the start of a cash assistance allocation of USD 8.2 million to families whose homes were damaged during the May 2021 escalation.

Thanks to exceptional financial contributions, an advance on 2022 contributions, a CERF loan and debt carried into 2022, UNRWA was able to sustain critical education, health care and humanitarian services to millions of Palestine refugees in the OPT and throughout the region. For 2022, UNRWA is again presenting a zero-growth core Programme budget despite increased needs of Palestine refugees. The Agency is confronted with a serious financial existential threat that can affect the rights and wellbeing of refugees and regional stability. I, therefore, urge Member States to continue, and to expand, their contributions to UNRWA.

Madam President,

Turning briefly to the region, on the Golan, while the ceasefire between Israel and Syria has been generally maintained, violations of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement by the parties continue, increasing tensions. It is important that the parties respect their obligations under the terms of the Agreement and refrain from taking unilateral steps on the occupied Golan that further erode peace and stability in the region.

During a visit to Lebanon in December, the Secretary-General expressed solidarity with the Lebanese people in the context of the country’s difficult socio-economic situation and reiterated the need for political leaders to work together urgently to find solutions to the crisis. Parliamentary elections have been announced for 15 May. The full reactivation of the Cabinet will be important, including to reliably support election preparations.

The situation in the UNIFIL area of operations remained relatively stable, despite isolated incidents of aggressive behavior against peacekeepers. UNIFIL remains engaged with the parties to contain incidents and defuse tensions along the Blue Line.

Madam President,

In closing, allow me to reiterate the urgent need for a coordinated approach to address political, economic and institutional obstacles blocking the way to a meaningful peace process.

Alongside key reforms and steps by all parties to defuse tensions, we must focus on providing a political context that will ensure that the positive engagement we have witnessed in recent months is not squandered. Partners, including those in the region, have a vital role to play.

Efforts must also continue to encourage all Palestinian political factions towards political consensus and bringing Gaza and the occupied West Bank under one legitimate, democratic Palestinian authority. Gaza remains integral to a future Palestinian State as part of a two-State solution.

Short-term challenges and urgent crises must be addressed. Yet, at the same time, we must ensure that the solutions put in place advance our ultimate goal: an end to occupation and the achievement of a two-State solution on the basis of UN resolutions, international law and previous agreements.

The UN will continue to actively engage, along with its counterparts in the Middle East Quartet, with regional and international partners, and with Israeli and Palestinian leaders to reach a just, comprehensive and lasting settlement of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

Thank you.

TOR WENNESLAND

UN SPECIAL COORDINATOR FOR THE MIDDLE EAST PEACE PROCESS

BRIEFING TO THE SECURITY COUNCIL ON THE SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST, REPORTING ON UNSCR 2334 (2016)

21 December 2021

(As delivered)

Mister President,

Members of the Security Council,

I am devoting my regular briefing on the situation in the Middle East to the twentieth report on the implementation of Security Council Resolution 2334 (2016). The Secretary-General’s written report that you have already received covers the period between 29 September and 9 December 2021.

Before turning to developments that have taken place since the submission of the written report, I would like to express my continued concern over recent developments in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and in particular the deteriorating security situation.

Clashes, attacks, military operations – including in Area A – and high levels of settler-related violence have continued, alongside calls by Palestinian militant factions for increased confrontations with Israel. Continued unilateral steps -- including Israeli settlement advancement, evictions, and demolitions – and the severe fiscal and economic crisis in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT) further exacerbate the situation and undermine the PA's institutional stability.

If left unchecked, I am concerned that not only may the situation in the West Bank further deteriorate, but these dynamics could also impact the security situation in Gaza and undermine the cessation of hostilities that has held since May 2021.

It is crucial that all parties take immediate steps to lower tensions and restore calm.

Mister President,

Violent incidents have unfortunately continued throughout the OPT.

Overall, since 29 September, 12 Palestinians, including one woman and four children, were killed by Israeli security forces during demonstrations, clashes, search-and-arrest operations, attacks and alleged attacks against Israelis, and other incidents across the Occupied Palestinian Territory, and 306 Palestinians, including three women and 53 children, were injured, including 16 by live ammunition. Thirty-nine Palestinians, including four children were injured by Israeli settlers or other civilians, who also perpetrated 121 attacks resulting in damage to Palestinian property.

In all, two Israeli civilians were killed and 39 Israelis --– 30 civilians, including two women and two children, and nine members of the Israeli security forces -- were injured by Palestinians in clashes, shooting, stabbing and ramming attacks, as well as incidents involving the throwing of stones and Molotov cocktails and other incidents. Palestinians perpetrated 105 attacks resulting in damage to Israeli property.

On 10 December, a Palestinian man was shot and killed by ISF during clashes near the West Bank town of Beita, near Nablus. The man was the ninth Palestinian fatality in the same area this year since protests began in May in the vicinity of Beita against the neighboring Evyatar settlement outpost, partly evacuated in July.

On 12 December, clashes erupted in Ayda Camp, Bethlehem, between Hamas supporters and Palestinian Security Forces during a celebration for a released prisoner. Two Palestinian officers were injured by an explosive device.

On 13 December, ISF conducted a search-and-arrest operation in Nablus that was followed by an exchange of fire with armed Palestinians. One Palestinian man was killed and two others injured in unclear circumstances. Later that day, a general strike took place in Nablus to protest the incident. Clashes between Palestinian Security Forces and other armed Palestinians were reported during the man’s funeral.

On 16 December, a 25-year-old Israeli was shot and killed by armed Palestinians near the evacuated settlement of Homesh, near Nablus. Two other Israelis were injured in the attack. On 17 December, settlers entered Qaryut village, south of Nablus, and severely beat a Palestinian man and damaged property. On 19 December, Israeli security forces arrested six Palestinians in the village of Silat al Harthiya, near Jenin, on suspicion of involvement in the shooting.

On 19 December, hundreds of settlers attempted to enter the Homesh outpost and set up illegal structures, breaking through ISF barricades and using violence against Israeli soldiers, including hitting one soldier with a vehicle. On 20 December, Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz condemned violent acts by Israelis against Palestinians and ISF, saying that these attacks would not be accepted or tolerated.

Mister President,

Some affirmative steps have been taken since the submission of the written report.

On 11 December, the Palestinian Central Election Commission (CEC) conducted the first round of local council elections in several hundred small communities in the West Bank, with over 66 per cent of eligible voters participating. Over 25 per cent of candidates were women, with nine heading electoral lists. Their representation in local councils will amount to some 22 per cent, close to the minimum legal requirement for at least two seats per council. On 12 December, the CEC announced the start of preparations for a second round of municipal elections in larger West Bank communities and all local councils in Gaza set for 26 March.

On 14 December, U.S. and Palestinian officials met virtually to renew the U.S.-Palestinian Economic Dialogue, the first such meeting in five years.

Mister President,

I will now turn to several observations concerning the implementation of the provisions of Security Council Resolution 2334 (2016) during the reporting period.

Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, remains deeply concerning, particularly the consideration and advancement of plans in highly controversial areas, crucial for the contiguity of a future Palestinian State, including in E1, Atarot and Givat Hamatos.

Israeli settlements constitute a flagrant violation of United Nations resolutions and international law and I call on the Government of Israel to cease the advancement of all settlement activities immediately.

I remain concerned by the potential eviction of a number of Palestinian families from homes they have lived in for decades in the Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighborhoods of occupied East Jerusalem.

I call on Israeli authorities to end the displacement and eviction of Palestinians, and to approve plans that would enable these communities to build legally and address their development needs.

In this context, I welcome the advancement of plans for several thousand housing units for Palestinians in the occupied East Jerusalem neighborhood of al-Issawiya and in Area C.

I urge Israel to continue regularly advancing such plans and to issue building permits for all previously approved plans for Palestinians in Area C and East Jerusalem.

Mister President,

The continuing violence, incitement to violence and attacks against civilians, including acts of terrorism and settler-related violence, exacerbate mistrust and undermine a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

There can be no justification for such acts; they must be condemned by all. I reiterate that the violence must stop, and all perpetrators must be held accountable.

Mister President,

The deterioration of the security and socio-economic situation across the Occupied Palestinian Territory is deeply worrying and the situation must be reversed. It is essential that the parties avoid unilateral steps that change the reality on the ground, reduce flashpoints and violence across the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

Concerted efforts by the parties – more than we have seen to date - are required to maintain calm, strengthen Palestinian institutions and restore hope. Furthermore, steps by all parties are urgently needed to shore up the economic and institutional stability of the PA, including through the implementation of needed reforms.

I note that the situation in Gaza also remains fragile. While constructive measures initiated during this reporting period are encouraging, further steps are required to solidify the cessation of hostilities and meet the population’s needs in the Strip.

For any durable stability, movement and access in and out of the Strip must be improved, with a view to a full lifting of the closures in line with UN Security Council resolution 1860 (2009).

Furthermore, it is critical that Egyptian-led intra-Palestinian reconciliation efforts continue. I call on all Palestinian factions to re-double efforts to ensure the reunification of Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, under a single, democratic, national government. Gaza is, and must remain, an integral part of a future Palestinian State as part of a two-State solution.

I also note the high turnout in the 11 December municipal elections, echoing the level of public engagement leading to the campaign period for planned elections earlier this year. I look forward to the second round of local council elections on 26 March and encourage all parties to respond positively to calls by the CEC to allow local elections across the OPT, including in Gaza.

Mister President,

In closing, I would like to emphasize that the rising levels of violence we have seen in recent weeks should be a clear warning to us all.

If left unaddressed, the festering conflict drivers described in my briefing today and in the latest written report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of United Nations Security Council resolution 2334 (2016) will drag us into yet another destructive and bloody round of violence. We must act now to prevent that from happening.

Strengthening the Palestinian Authority is critical to maintaining stability on the ground. Financial support is essential but not enough. I urge positive steps from all parties and necessary reforms that increase the PA’s ability to deliver for the Palestinian people. At the same time, negative actions that undermine its authority need to stop.

This has been a year of significant shifts in the political context affecting this conflict, resulting in one of the most challenging set of circumstances to face the Palestinian Authority since its establishment. Nevertheless, I look ahead to next year with a determination that we will find opportunities to reverse the negative trajectory and work toward a constructive engagement by the parties – with the support of the international community – and to restore a political horizon. The UN remains committed to supporting Palestinians and Israelis to resolve the conflict and end the occupation through the achievement of a two-State solution, in line with relevant United Nations resolutions, international law and bilateral agreements.

We will continue our intensive engagement with the parties, the Quartet, and regional and international partners to advance this goal.

Thank you.

We meet at another year’s end, and we can only look back on 2021 as a year of deepening suffering of the Syrian people.