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UNDER-SECRETARY-GENERAL FOR POLITICAL AFFAIRS

ROSEMARY DICARLO

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

21 January 2020

Mr. President,

Members of the Security Council,

I brief you today amid heightened regional tensions that threaten to destabilize further an already volatile political and security environment. The Secretary-General has been clear in calling on all leaders to exercise maximum restraint and has emphasized that the world cannot afford another conflict.

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is not immune to the tensions in the region. At the same time, the effects of its persistence are felt far beyond Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

The United Nations has consistently stated that we cannot hope to bring sustainable peace to the Middle East without taking firm action to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and achieve a two-State solution based on international law, relevant United Nations resolutions and prior agreements.

It is sadly not a surprise that a recent survey of millennials by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) found that almost two-thirds (65 per cent) of Israeli millennials thought the Israeli-Palestinian conflict would “never end”, making them the least optimistic of the people surveyed in countries affected by war. Palestinians were also pessimistic, although slightly less so, with 52 per cent believing that the conflict would never end.

The international community bears a responsibility to help build a different future for these young Israelis and Palestinians, one that promises hope, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence rather than perpetual occupation and conflict.

Mr. President,

During the past few weeks, the UN has continued its engagement with all Palestinian factions to stress the need for and the prospect of holding long-overdue legislative and presidential elections.

Political parties have confirmed they would include more women candidates than the law requires. Discussions also continue regarding potentially amending the electoral law and raising the quota of women candidates on a list from 20 to 30 per cent.

Despite broad internal political agreement and a series of compromises by all factions, to date President Abbas has not issued the decree needed to schedule elections. In the past month, he has stated that he would not set dates until Israel agrees that elections can take place in East Jerusalem. Plans to organize the vote are now grinding to a halt.

The Secretary-General and the Special Coordinator remain hopeful that elections will be scheduled soon in line with previous practice.

Mr. President,

With the political process deadlocked, negative developments continue to undermine the prospects for a two-State solution.

The beginning of 2020 witnessed the continued expansion of settlement activity and the threat of annexation of parts of the West Bank. On 4 and 5 January, Israeli authorities advanced plans for some 1,900 residential units in settlements in Area C. The plans include the retroactive “regularization”, under Israeli law, of an outpost and advancement of plans in two other locations that were regularized in 2019. In addition, tenders were announced for some 2200 units in Area C and East Jerusalem.

On 5 January, an inter-ministerial committee tasked with discussing annexation plans for the Jordan Valley held its first meeting.

On 9 January, the Office of the Minister of Defence announced the appointment of the director of a new task force to tackle so-called “illegal Palestinian construction” in Area C of the West Bank.

Also in January, the Jerusalem District Planning Committee advanced a new 150-unit compound to be built in the East Jerusalem neighborhood of Beit Hanina, on land owned jointly by Israelis and Palestinians. The construction rights are expected to be split between the Israeli and Palestinian owners of the land, though the Palestinian owners had previously submitted objections to this plan.

On 15 January, following a ruling by Israel’s High Court of Justice, Israeli authorities demolished two houses in the outpost of Kumi Ori, in Area B of the West Bank.

Also, on 15 January Israel's Defense Ministry announced it was advancing the declaration of 7 new nature reserves in Area C and the expansion of twelve existing ones. If implemented, these declarations would be the first of their kind since the start of the Oslo process.

I reiterate that all settlements are illegal under international law and remain an obstacle to peace. The annexation of some or all of Area C, if implemented, would deal a devastating blow to the potential of reviving negotiations, advancing regional peace, and the essence of the two-State solution.

Mr. President,

Meanwhile, sporadic violence in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and Gaza continued throughout the reporting period. Some 220 Palestinians, including 80 children, were injured in various incidents, including during clashes, protests, search and arrest operations, and settler-related violence. Of these, 50 were injured by tear gas inhalation. In addition, 6 Israelis, including one child, were injured during the reporting period.

Developments in the East Jerusalem neighborhood of Al-Issawiya are a significant and growing concern. The area continues to be the focal point of ongoing clashes and numerous arrests, including of minors. The United Nations continues to monitor the situation closely.

In Gaza, while the situation remains extremely fragile, there has been a notable and welcome reduction in violence in and around Gaza as the understandings brokered by the United Nations and Egypt continue to be broadly upheld.

On 26 December, the organizers of the ongoing protests along the Gaza perimeter fence announced that the weekly demonstrations would be on hold until the end of March. Following the announcement, a relative calm has prevailed along the fence.

The limited demonstrations that took place prior to the announcement remained relatively peaceful, though some protesters engaged in violent activities including approaching the fence and throwing Molotov cocktails and explosive devices towards Israeli forces. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) responded with riot dispersal means and live fire, injuring some 140 Palestinians, including some 75 women and children. According to OCHA, the number of injuries recorded during the Gaza protests in the reporting period was the lowest since the protests began in March 2018. One Palestinian died of injuries sustained during a protest in May 2018.

It is concerning and regrettable, however, that in the last few days there has been a resurgence of incendiary balloons and kites launched from Gaza towards Israel. These actions are a risk to the civilian population.

During the reporting period, Palestinian militants fired some 20 projectiles from the Gaza Strip towards Israeli communities, a significant decrease compared to previous months. The rockets fell short, fell in open areas or were intercepted and did not cause any damage or injuries. In response to the rocket attacks, the IDF conducted several strikes against what it said were Hamas targets in Gaza. No injuries were reported.

ASG Muller will elaborate in further details on the humanitarian situation in the occupied territory.

Mr. President,

Despite ongoing efforts, the socio-economic situation in Gaza remains very difficult. Progress was made during the reporting period on implementation of the package of urgent humanitarian and economic interventions for Gaza, endorsed by the Ad-Hoc Liaison Committee (AHLC) in September 2018. I take this opportunity to thank those in the international community who have contributed to the implementation of the AHLC plan and call on all to increase their support to UN programmes on the ground.

By the end of 2019, 37,000 temporary jobs had been created by UNRWA, UNDP and the World Bank. The cash-for-work programmes specifically target women and youth, as they are underrepresented in the labor force and require specialized assistance to gain access to employment opportunities. Several thousand more jobs are expected to be created this year.

The increased funding would allow UN agencies the capacity to significantly scale up and improve these job opportunities, as well as implement other programmes to support the economy and address unemployment more long term. Qatari funded fuel supplies for the Gaza Power Plant also continued, allowing for increased and more stable electricity supplies in Gaza.

Meanwhile, many of the AHLC projects remain unfunded or in a deficit. Critical health interventions identified in the package are still in deficit of USD 4 million. Donors are encouraged to continue their support of these interventions to alleviate the suffering of the population and help avoid another deadly escalation.

Despite the welcome progress in advancing these projects, it’s a fact that humanitarian and economic steps alone will not resolve Gaza’s immense challenges. At their core, Gaza’s problems are political, and they require political solutions. Palestinian leaders must take concrete steps to ensure that Gaza and the West Bank are reunited. At the same time, Israel must significantly improve the movement and access of goods and people to and from Gaza, as a step towards the full lifting of the closures, in line with Security Council resolution 1860 (2009).

Mr. President,

In other developments during the reporting period, on 20 December, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court released a statement, announcing that the ICC’s preliminary examination into the Situation in Palestine “has concluded with the determination that all the statutory criteria under the Rome Statute for the opening of an investigation have been met.” In doing so, she expressed her view that, among other things, “war crimes have been or are being committed in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip.”

She also stated her position that the Court’s jurisdiction applies to the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

Mr. President,

In line with legislation passed in the Knesset in July 2018, on 29 December, the Government decided to withhold USD 43 million in clearance revenues that Israel collects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority, in monthly instalments spread over the course of 2020. The amount was determined by Israeli authorities to be equal to what Palestinian authorities paid Palestinians injured in attacks against Israelis and families of those killed in such attacks. This deduction comes in addition to USD 139 million already withheld by Israel over stipends paid in 2018 to prisoners convicted or accused of security offenses against Israel.

I am concerned that this development may strain the tenuous progress made in October 2019, when Israel and the Palestinian Authority reached a partial agreement on transferring clearance revenues. I reiterate my call to both sides to engage in a constructive manner to ensure compliance with the Paris Protocol on Economic Relations. The UN stands ready to assist in this process.

Mr. President,

Turning to the region, in Lebanon, efforts to form a Government have continued since Hassan Diab was nominated Prime Minister-designate on 19 December. The popular protests also continue, against the background of a deteriorating economic situation.

The violent incidents that took place in Beirut between protestors and security forces in recent days and incidents of disproportionate use of force raise very serious concern, particularly as the protests have been largely peaceful until now.

Following recent tensions in the region, the Special Coordinator for Lebanon and the UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander encouraged parties to shield Lebanon from any potential spill-over and to urge for calm. The situation in the UNIFIL area of operations, including along the Blue Line, remained stable.

While in the past weeks the situation on the Golan had generally remained clam, on 14 January, the Syrian Armed Forces issued a statement informing that the Israel Defense Forces had conducted an airstrike on targets located in Syria. UNDOF engaged both parties in order to prevent an escalation of tensions and reminded them of their obligation to respect the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement.

Mr. President,

In closing, I would like to emphasize the continued urgency of resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict on the basis of relevant UN resolutions, international law and bilateral agreements.

In the absence of progress towards an agreement that will resolve all final status issues, the United Nations continues to focus its efforts on establishing an environment conducive to the return to the negotiations. Recent regional events have once again brought to fore the crucial necessity of dialogue and diplomacy in the region.

And, we don’t need to look any further to find living examples of dialogue and co-existence at the community level. Despite the political deadlock and tensions, Palestinians and Israelis on the ground continue to work every day to build a more peaceful and secure future.

From youth creating new platforms to increase cultural understanding across religious and national lines, to women demanding a greater role in their governments’ decision-making, these remarkable individuals continue to serve as an inspiration to all of us to redouble our efforts towards a negotiated solution.

I assure you that the United Nations remains committed to supporting Palestinians and Israelis as they pursue a peaceful and just future.

Thank you.

One year ago, many believed that the Syrian conflict was winding down. Yet the past 12 months have seen a steady stream of violence, punctuated by escalations, that continue to this day, across many areas of Syria – such as the northwest, the northeast and the south. Proscribed terrorist groups have also not been defeated and continue to pose a major security threat. All of this serves as a constant, grim reminder that the need for a comprehensive political process, as mandated by this Council in resolution 2254, is more pressing than ever.

Madame President,

Members of the Security Council,

On behalf of the Secretary-General, I will devote my regular briefing on the situation in the Middle East to presenting the twelfth report on the implementation of Security Council resolution 2334 (2016). The report covers the period between 12 September and 6 December 2019. As you have received the written report already, in today’s briefing I will provide an update on developments related to the provisions of the resolution that have taken place following the submission of the report to the Council.

As detailed in the report, no steps were taken during the reporting period to “cease all settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem” as demanded by the resolution.

Demolitions and seizures structures also continued across the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Since 6 December an additional eight Palestinian-owned structures were demolished or seized by the Israeli authorities, resulting in the displacement of 20 people.

Madame President,

Security Council resolution 2334 also “calls for immediate steps to prevent all acts of violence against civilians.” Unfortunately, violence continued even during the few days since the submission of the report.

In the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, 16 Palestinians were injured in various incidents, including in clashes with ISF during demonstrations, security operations, settler-related attacks, and other incidents since the end of the reporting period.

Protests at the Gaza perimeter fence have also continued. While most demonstrations remained relatively peaceful, some protesters engaged in violent activities. The IDF responded with riot dispersal means and live fire, injuring some 38 people. On 17 December a Palestinian was killed by an Israeli drone as he approached the perimeter fence. According to the IDF, the man was armed. Three rockets were also launched by Gaza militants towards Israel, causing no injuries.

On 9 December, assailants slashed the tires of over 160 Palestinian cars in the Shu'fat neighborhood of East Jerusalem and sprayed anti-Arab graffiti. Additional vehicles were vandalized or set on fire in two villages in Bethlehem and in another two villages in Ramallah. The Israeli police are investigating the Shu’fat incident.

Several dozen Israeli activists from the “Tag Me’ir” Forum conducted a visit to the Shu’fat neighborhood following the attack in order to express their rejection of the violence and their solidarity with Shu’fat’s residents. They were hosted by Hussein and Suha Abu Khdeir, whose son Mohammad was murdered in a terror attack in 2014.

Madame President,

Security Council resolution 2334 (2016) calls upon the parties “to refrain from provocative actions, incitement, and inflammatory rhetoric.” Unfortunately, such actions and rhetoric have continued.

The resolution also 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.”

In recent weeks, the United Nations has continued its engagement with senior Palestinian officials and different factions towards holding inclusive elections throughout the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT).

In preparation for possible 2020 parliamentary and presidential elections, and after the request for technical assistance from Palestine’s Central Election Commission (CEC), a United Nations electoral Needs Assessment Mission (NAM) was deployed to the OPT earlier this week.

On 10 December, the Palestinian Authority announced that it had officially sent a request to Israel to allow Palestinian residents of East Jerusalem to participate in potential presidential and legislative elections.

Madame President,

I would like to focus on some of the observations concerning the implementation of the provisions of the resolution.

In the three years since the Security Council resolution 2334 adopted, plans for over 22,000 units have been advanced or approved in West Bank settlements, including in East Jerusalem. Tenders for some 8,000 units have been issued. These numbers should be of serious concern to all those who continue to support the establishment of an independent and viable Palestinian state alongside Israel.

Resolution 2334 (2016) clearly states that the establishment of settlements in the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem, has no legal validity and constitutes a flagrant violation under international law and a major obstacle to the achievement of the two-State solution and a just, lasting and comprehensive peace. Settlements must therefore cease immediately and completely.

The continued demolitions and seizures of Palestinian structures, including internationally funded humanitarian projects, is also of significant concern. This practice is not in line with international humanitarian law and must stop. Affected populations must be duly compensated for damages incurred. Similarly, the high number of Palestinian households in East Jerusalem with eviction cases filed against them is alarming. Israel, as an occupying power, must abide by its obligations under international humanitarian law.

I remain gravely concerned about the continuing violence, terrorist attacks against civilians, and incitement to violence that greatly exacerbate mistrust between Israelis and Palestinians and are fundamentally incompatible with a peaceful resolution of the conflict.

The indiscriminate launching of rockets and mortars towards Israeli civilian population centers is prohibited by international humanitarian law, and Palestinian militants must cease this practice immediately.

The security situation in Gaza remains very fragile. The use of force by Israel at the Gaza perimeter fence and the number of Palestinians killed and injured also remains a significant concern. Security forces must exercise maximum restraint and only use lethal force when strictly necessary and in response to an imminent threat of death or serious injury. Hamas must stop the firing of rockets and ensure that protests remain peaceful. Children should never be the target of violence nor used or put in harm’s way.

Reports of increased number of settler related attacks and harassment are also deeply concerning. Particularly around the olive harvest season and in Hebron. Further measures must be taken to ensure that Israel fulfills its obligation to protect Palestinian civilians from violence, including by Israeli settlers, and to investigate and hold accountable those responsible for such attacks.

Provocative and inflammatory rhetoric during the reporting period has continued to deepen the divide and has fueled further mistrust between Israelis and Palestinians. Leaders and officials must set a tone that encourages tolerance and facilitates increased dialogue.

I am particularly appalled by and call on all to join the UN in condemning all racist and inflammatory statements that aim to spread fear and hatred among people. Regrettably statements on the prospect of annexation of the Jordan Valley and other parts of the West Bank also continue. Such steps, if implemented, would constitute a serious violation of international law and would be destructive to the realization of the two-State solution and prospects for peace.

September marked one year since the start of the implementation of the UN package of urgent humanitarian and economic interventions for Gaza. The efforts to date have achieved important results, yet the situation remains very fragile. Security risks abound, movement and access restrictions remain severe and there has been no progress towards intra-Palestinian unity. Some of the investments made to date as a result of efforts by the United Nations will end on 31 December, and without additional funding and a durable Israeli and Palestinian commitment, the situation in Gaza could, once again, be pushed to the brink of collapse. The stakes are too high to allow this to happen, all stakeholders must act to prevent the ongoing crisis in Gaza from deepening further.

On its own, no amount of humanitarian or economic support will resolve either the situation in Gaza or the broader conflict. Gaza ultimately requires political solutions. Taking into consideration its legitimate security concerns, I urge Israel to ease the restrictions on the movement of goods and people to and from Gaza, with the goal of ultimately lifting them. Only by fully lifting the closures, in line with Security Council resolution 1860 (2009), can we hope to sustainably resolve the humanitarian crisis. It is also critical to end the militant build-up in Gaza, the constant threat of rocket fire and reunite Gaza and the West Bank under a single, legitimate Palestinian national authority, in accordance with the recommendations of the 2016 Middle East Quartet Report.

In this context, it is critical that the important Egyptian-led intra-Palestinian reconciliation efforts continue. The United Nations stands firm in its support of Egypt’s efforts in this regard, and I call on all Palestinian factions to make serious efforts to advance Palestinian unity.

I welcome ongoing discussions on the holding of Palestinian general elections. If elections materialize, they would be the first Palestinian elections since 2006, giving renewed legitimacy to national institutions. The international community should support this process.

As I emphasized in my previous briefing to the Council, three critical elements are required for elections to be credible: First, they must be organized across the OPT – in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and Gaza – in line with the Palestinian Basic Law, electoral legislation and international best practices; second, both legislative and presidential elections are necessary and should be held within a clearly identified and reasonable timeframe; and third, broad intra-Palestinian agreement must be reached on the modalities of holding elections.

Palestinians have been denied their democratic right to vote for too long. I am hopeful that the Palestinian President will very soon issue the decree scheduling legislative and presidential elections and that Israel will allow voting in East Jerusalem as well.

Despite the partial agreement reached between Israel and the Palestinian Authority on 3 October on clearance revenues, it remains critical that both sides engage in a constructive manner with the goal of restoring the revenue transfers in full in accordance with the Paris Protocol on Economic Relations.

Madame President,

UNRWA’s financial situation, unfortunately, has continued to worsen. Urgent disbursement of donor funds is essential to ensure operations can be sustained through the end of the year.

I also call on Member States to support the 2020 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) for the OPT, launched on 11 December. The 2020 HRP appeals for $348 million to provide basic food, protection, health care, shelter, water and sanitation to 1.5 million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.

Madame President,

This month marks three years since the adoption of Security Council resolution 2334 (2016). The situation on the ground since then has only deteriorated. Settlements have expanded significantly, demolitions have accelerated, violence and incitement have continued, achieving intra-Palestinian unity remains elusive, and credible negotiations have yet to be launched. I remain greatly concerned by the persistent lack of progress towards ending the occupation and realizing a negotiated two-State solution. As I have consistently stated, it is not enough to call for the renewal of our collective efforts to this end, we must take concrete action.

Absent the renewed commitment of the parties and the international community to pursue concrete measures that will lead to genuine political progress, the situation will continue to worsen. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is in a fragile phase with the occupation deepening, political uncertainty prevailing, and volatile regional dynamics threatening to further de-stabilize the situation.

I once again urge leaders on all sides to summon the necessary political will to take concrete steps in support of ending the occupation and realizing a lasting peace, resulting in two democratic States, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace with secure and recognized borders, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states.

Thank you.

On 30 October, 150 Syrian men and women gathered in Geneva to launch a Syrian-led, Syrian-owned, credible, balanced and inclusive Constitutional Committee facilitated by the United Nations. This was a potentially historic moment. It brought Syrians together in one room within the formal political process mandated by this Council – for the first face-to-face talks in five years … for the first time ever following a political agreement between the government and opposition … and for the first time ever with civil society present.

NICKOLAY MLADENOV

SPECIAL COORDINATOR FOR THE MIDDLE EAST PEACE PROCESS

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

20 November 2019

(As delivered)

Madam President,

Members of the Security Council,

We meet today in the aftermath of the most serious recent escalation between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza. Although the immediate crisis was diffused, the situation remains highly volatile.

Following Israel’s targeted killing of Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) Commander Baha Abu al-Ata in Gaza, Palestinian militants launched more than 500 rockets towards Israel. This latest escalation was preceded on 1 November by some ten rockets that were launched from Gaza towards Israel, one of them hitting a house in Sderot City.

While according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) 90 per cent were intercepted by the Iron Dome, those that landed caused damage to residential and commercial property. 78 Israelis were treated for injuries or shock.

The indiscriminate launching of rockets and mortars at civilian population centres is unacceptable and must stop immediately.

In response to the rocket attacks, the IDF conducted a number of strikes against PIJ and militant targets in Gaza. 34 Palestinians were killed, more than 20 of them identified by the IDF as militants, and three women and eight children. One of the fatalities was reportedly caused by a Palestinian rocket falling short inside Gaza. In total, 109 people were injured as well.

Among the people killed in Gaza were eight members of a family, who were killed in a single Israeli strike. The IDF has reportedly admitted that their home was mistakenly targeted. This is a tragic and heinous incident and must be thoroughly and impartially investigated.

There is no justification for the killing of civilians anywhere.

Madam President,

I want to recognise the extraordinary effort by Egypt, working closely with the UN, to ensure that calm in Gaza was restored after 48 hours of hostilities. Had our efforts failed, we would certainly be in the midst of another war that would be far worse than the terrible conflict in 2014.

The dangers have not passed. Although for now, the arrangements that came into effect in the early hours of 14 November are holding, sporadic rocket launches have continued, prompting Israeli retaliation.

There are also other risks.

Israeli closures and intra-Palestinian division feed a desperate reality. Militant activity, rocket fire, and retaliatory air-strikes constantly risk more violence. Over the past year and a half, the UN has worked hard to prevent escalation and implement the UN package for Gaza as endorsed by the AHLC. As a result of this work, electricity supply was restored to an average of 13 hours per day, more than 16,000 temporary jobs were created, and work is progressing on reviving an industrial zone to create long-term economic opportunities. All these measures have admittedly eased tensions, but they fall short of what is required both in terms of financial resources, political commitment by Palestinian leaders, and measures by Israel.

Gaza ultimately requires a political solution.

Militant activity cannot continue to undermine the chances for peace and development.

Israel cannot continue with its policy of closures that stifles development.

Palestinian leaders cannot continue to avoid the devastating consequences of their internal political division.

I take this opportunity to thank those in the international community who have contributed to the implementation of the AHLC plan and call on all to increase their support to UN programmes on the ground. Most urgent is the need to address the collapse of the health system in Gaza.

Nevertheless, Madam President, our important humanitarian engagement must not divert us from the political goal of helping Palestinians to develop freely, without relentless occupation, and Israelis to live in security, free from the fear of terror and rockets. The only way to ensure this goal is to work towards — and achieve — a two-state solution, based on relevant UN resolutions; a two-state solution, in which Gaza is an integral part of the future state of Palestine.

Madam President,

Protests at the Gaza perimeter fence have also continued with a small number of participants engaging in violent activities. The IDF responded with riot dispersal means and live fire, injuring over 300 people, including women and children.

Israeli security forces (ISF) must exercise maximum restraint and only use lethal force when strictly necessary, as a last resort, and in response to an imminent threat of death or serious injury, in accordance with international law.

Hamas must ensure that protests at the fence remain peaceful and prevent provocations.

Madam President,

If we want a way out of the crisis – a way out that leads to something more than yet another ceasefire, the road is clear: stop firing rockets, retaliatory strikes and provocations, uphold the understandings that sustain calm in Gaza, redouble efforts to alleviate the humanitarian crisis and lift the closures, and focus on a long term, sustainable political solution that includes allowing the Palestinian people across the occupied territory to vote and elect their leaders for the first time since 2006.

In recent weeks, I have engaged with senior Palestinian officials and different factions and am encouraged that all sides have moved from their entrenched positions and made important concessions toward making elections a more realistic prospect.

Renewing the legitimacy of all national institutions is important for the future of the Palestinian people.

In my discussions, I emphasized to all the critical elements required for elections to be credible:

First, they must be organized across the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT) – in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and Gaza – in line with the Palestinian Basic Law, electoral legislation and international best practices;

Second, both legislative and presidential elections are necessary and should be held within a clearly identified and reasonable timeframe;

And third, broad intra-Palestinian agreement must be reached on the modalities of holding elections.

Madam President,

As Palestinians hopefully accelerate their efforts to hold elections, the Israeli-Palestinian political deadlock continues to manifest itself in the continuation of negative trends on the ground.

On 1 November, some 2,600 housing units were advanced by the Civil Administration High Planning Committee, including 182 units in Mevo’ot Yericho, an outpost in the Jordan Valley that the Israeli Government decided in September to retroactively legalize as a new settlement. Other notable plans include 382 units in the Dolev settlement, west of Ramallah, and 609 units in the large urban settlement of Beitar Illit, west of Bethlehem.

I take this opportunity to reiterate that we regret the announcement made on 18 November by the United States that it no longer views settlements as inconsistent with international law. The UN position remains unchanged. As per UNSC Resolution 2334, Israeli settlement activities are a flagrant violation under international law and a major obstacle to the achievement of the two-State solution and a just, lasting and comprehensive peace.

Madam President,

Demolitions and seizures of Palestinian-owned structures also continued across the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem.

Citing the absence of Israeli-issued building permits, which are nearly impossible for Palestinians to obtain in Area C and East Jerusalem, Israeli authorities demolished or seized 48 structures resulting in the displacement of 101 Palestinians, including 46 children.

This practice must immediately cease.

Madam President,

Violence continues across the OPT.

In the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, 46 Palestinians, including 9 children, and three Israelis were injured in various incidents, including during clashes, search and arrest operations, and settler-related violence.

On 11 November a 22-year-old Palestinian man was killed in circumstances that indicate that he did not pose a threat. Such acts must be thoroughly and impartially investigated, and the perpetrators held accountable. The IDF has reportedly launched an investigation into this incident.

Four days later on 15 November, a Palestinian journalist lost an eye after being reportedly shot by ISF while covering a demonstration in Surif village, north of Hebron.

I remain concerned by continuing, and sometime escalating, settler-related violence. Attacks on Palestinians and their property in the context of the annual olive harvest have continued despite preventive measures adopted by the Israeli authorities. These attacks, along with restrictions on Palestinian farmers’ access to their land in areas adjacent to Israeli settlements and behind the West Bank barrier, have undermined agricultural livelihoods.

Madam President,

Despite the agreement reached last month between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, which resulted in the transfer of some USD 425 million of clearance revenues to the Palestinian Authority, the underlying disagreements between the two parties remain, including over Israel’s deductions. It remains critical that both sides engage in a constructive manner with the goal of restoring the revenue transfers in full line with the Paris Protocol on Economic Relations. The UN stands ready to assist this process.

In a positive development, on 11 November, UN-Women, with support from the Government of Norway, launched a USD1.2 million programme to support the advancement of the Women Peace and Security Agenda in Palestine, including the development of the Palestinian National Action Plan for the next four years on the implementation of UNSCR 1325.

Madame President,

We have regularly updated the Council and its members on the financial challenges UNRWA continues to face. Cash flow is reaching a record low. I welcome the extension of UNRWA’s mandate until 2023, as adopted by the 4^th Committee of the General Assembly on 15 November. Given the stakes, I urge the swift mobilization of support to enable the Agency to sustain its operations.

Madam President,

Turning now briefly to other developments in the region, on the Golan the situation remains calm. However, the continued violations of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement remain of concern particularly in this volatile time for the region. On 19 November, UNDOF observed two unidentified objects being fired from a location on the Alpha side and heard three explosions. The IDF informed UNDOF that it had intercepted rockets fired from Syria. The Syrian authorities informed UNDOF that they had no knowledge of any firing of rockets. On 20 November, the IDF carried out airstrikes against what it described as Iranian Quds Force and Syrian Armed Forces targets in Syria.

Further details of the developments on the occupied Golan will be reported in the Secretary-General’s Report on UNDOF due to the Security Council on 3 December.

In Lebanon, peaceful nationwide and non-sectarian demonstrations triggered by frustration against government policies led to the resignation of Prime Minister Saad Hariri on 29 October. Security forces have largely responded with restraint allowing peaceful demonstrations to continue despite heightened tensions at roadblocks. After one month of unabated protests, a political deadlock hinders the nomination of a Prime Minister-designate and the formation of a new government, amidst a rapidly deteriorating economic situation. The United Nations has called for a swift formation of government that is responsive to the protestors aspirations and which has the parliament’s backing. The UN also encourages the Lebanese security forces to continue to protect peaceful demonstrators.

In the UNIFIL area of operations, following decreased joint operations with the Lebanese Armed Forces prompted by the popular protests, UNIFIL’s operations in close coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces returned to normal levels in early November.

The Council will be briefed on resolution 1701 on 25 November.

Madam President,

In closing, I would like to return to the issue of the long overdue Palestinian elections. The Palestinian people have a right to vote and elect their leaders. For too long they have been denied that right and division has set in. A whole generation’s voice for the future has yet to be heard. Intra-Palestinian division is like a cancer eating away at the aspiration for statehood, peace and the commitment to democracy, rule of law and human rights.

Elections are not a gift. They are a right. If elections are to build unity, they must take place in Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. How can you heal the devastating division if people in Gaza are not able to vote for their future?

The United Nations will do all that is necessary to support a successful Palestinian election process.

But, ladies and gentlemen, we must be cognizant of broader risks as well.

The continuing risk of war threatens to upend all our efforts to prevent escalation and revive a political process. The UN will continue our efforts to prevent another devastating conflict despite all odds.

Upholding the international consensus on resolving the conflict and all final status issues on the basis of the two-state solution as per relevant UN resolutions, international law and mutual agreements is just as important. Unilateral moves fuel anger and disillusionment and significantly undermine the prospects for establishing a contiguous and viable Palestinian state with Jerusalem as the future capital of both states.

Thank you.

NICKOLAY MLADENOV

UN SPECIAL COORDINATOR FOR THE MIDDLE EAST PEACE PROCESS

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

28 October 2019

Madam President,

Members of the Security Council,

We meet today as rapidly shifting developments in the Middle East continue to underscore the growing threat to international peace and security.

As new dangerous flashpoints emerge in the region, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict also remains one of the drivers of extremism and instability. The occupation continues, and no progress has been made in realizing a negotiated two-state solution. It is a multi-generational tragedy for the peoples of this land.

On 26 September at the United Nations General Assembly, President Abbas announced his intention to set a date for Palestinian elections. If this decision were to materialize, this would be the first Palestinian elections since 2006, giving renewed legitimacy to national institutions.

The international community should support this process if it strengthens national unity and not division. This includes an agreement for elections that take place across the occupied Palestinian territory in line with relevant legislation, international best practices and an agreed national political platform that based on existing agreements.

Madam President,

The past month has also witnessed the continuing deterioration of the situation on the ground.

With no prospect of final status negotiations on the horizon, facts on the ground continue to deteriorate, pushing us even further from a viable two-State solution.

During the past month it has been reported that Israeli authorities advanced plans for housing units in Area C settlements. The exact numbers are yet to be confirmed. Even without this latest advancement, the number of units advanced or approved in 2019 so far is already greater than that for all of 2018.

Settlements are illegal under international law and remain a substantial obstacle to peace. They must cease immediately.

Meanwhile, demolitions and seizures of Palestinian-owned structures also continued across the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem.

Citing the absence of Israeli-issued building permits, which are nearly impossible for Palestinians to obtain, the authorities demolished or seized 51 structures, resulting in the displacement of 80 Palestinians, including 40 children. Four of the structures were demolished based on Military Order 1797.

Demolitions and confiscations of infrastructures and internationally funded humanitarian projects in Area C also continue at a concerning pace. The Israeli authorities must stop this practice, which is not in line with international humanitarian law and compensate for occurred damages befitting the affected population.

Madam President,

Members of the Security Council,

Violence continues to be a major part of the day-to-day reality of the conflict.

In recent weeks we have seen a welcome reduction of violence in Gaza, including in the launching of rockets. The agreements for calm brokered by the UN and Egypt continue to hold. Despite the overall improvement, three Palestinians were killed by IDF, and over 500 injured during protests at the Gaza perimeter fence.

I take the opportunity to reiterate the concerns expressed on 10 October by Deputy Special Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator McGoldrick on the impact that violence at these demonstrations has had on children.

Israeli security forces have the responsibility to exercise maximum restraint and use lethal force when strictly necessary, as a last resort.

I also reiterate the call on Hamas to uphold its responsibility and ensure the safety of children in Gaza, including by preventing them from being used and exposed to the risk of violence.

During the reporting period, six rockets were launched from Gaza towards Israel, causing no injuries. Additionally, for the first time in a month, no fires have been caused by incendiary balloons.

Meanwhile in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, two Palestinians were killed, including one infant following tear gas inhalation. In addition, 88 Palestinians, including 11 children, were injured in various incidents, including during clashes, military operations, and settler-related violence. Six Palestinian Security Forces personnel were also injured by home-made explosive devices during clashes with Palestinians. Four Israelis, including two Israel Security Forces personnel, were also injured, including one by Israeli settlers.

Among the overall incidents, according to OCHA, settler-related violence has resulted in 11 Palestinians and one Israeli injured. In addition, there were 33 incidents resulting in damage to Palestinian property, including some 1,236 trees and 63 vehicles, and one incident resulting in damage to an Israeli vehicle.

I am particularly concerned by the worrying attacks by settlers in the occupied West Bank, in the context of the annual olive harvest. As the olive harvest begins, I call on the Israeli authorities to ensure smooth access of Palestinian farmers to their land and protect farmers and their property from attacks.

On 16 October, in an alarming incident, Palestinian farmers, Israeli and foreign volunteers harvesting olive trees near Burin village were attacked with stones and metal rods by people from Yitzhar settlement. On 22 October the Yitzhar area was declared a closed military zone and more forces were deployed in it. An 80-year-old rabbi and four foreign volunteers were also injured. One of the alleged perpetrators of these attacks was arrested. In Qaryut, south of Nablus, Palestinians were also prevented from accessing their lands for olive harvest.

During the reporting period, despite attempts to reach an agreement between Israeli authorities and residents of al-Issawiya, tensions remain high in East Jerusalem.

Madam President,

On 26 September, the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee (AHLC) held its bi-annual meeting in New York. The United Nations highlighted the critical need to support the Palestinian people, the Palestinian Authority and advance the two-state solution as the only viable option for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Moreover, members at that meeting noted that every effort must be made to avoid further deterioration in the security situations in Gaza and in the West Bank.

The United Nations also reported on progress on the implementation of the package of urgent humanitarian and economic interventions for Gaza, endorsed by the AHLC in September 2018. The interventions have had an important impact across many sectors.

The average daily availability of electricity in Gaza has doubled from 5.5 hours in the first half of 2018 to nearly 12-15 hours in the first half of 2019. This has increased water and wastewater treatment, reduced the need for expensive fuel to run hospitals and lowered costs for private businesses and families.

Almost 450,000 people in Gaza have benefited from emergency healthcare and nearly 400,000 have benefited from the delivery of drugs and medical supplies. As of October, UN temporary job creation programmes have produced more than 16,000 jobs, with another 1,000 jobs expected in the coming weeks.

I thank Member States that have supported the implementation of the AHLC projects so far and urge others to contribute to these critical initiatives.

Despite these vital efforts, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire.

As of the end of September, almost half of essential medications and about a third of essential medical disposables are still missing. Health providers continue to struggle to treat those injured during the weekly demonstrations. Severe movement and access restrictions continue, including for those requiring treatment outside Gaza, and national staff from UN agencies and international non-governmental organizations working in Gaza.

While addressing the humanitarian crisis must remain a priority, I reiterate, once again, that the core of the crisis in Gaza is political.

It is not possible to genuinely and sustainably improve the socio-economic situation in Gaza without significantly easing restrictions on the movement and access of goods and people, with the goal of ultimately lifting them in line with Security Council resolution 1860 (2009), and reuniting Gaza and the West Bank under a single, legitimate Palestinian national authority.

In this regard, I once again call on all Palestinian factions to engage with Egypt on reconciliation efforts.

Madam President,

I am encouraged by the agreement reached on 3 October between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, which resulted in the transfer of some USD 425 million of clearance revenues to the Palestinian Authority.

Despite the relative normalization of the fiscal situation of the Palestinian Authority, both sides must engage in a constructive manner with the goal of restoring the revenue transfers in full in line with the Paris Protocol on Economic Relations.

On another positive note, I welcome the Palestinian cabinet’s decision on 21 October, to advance amendments to the Palestinian civil status law in favor of women. These include increasing the minimum age of marriage and granting women the right to manage their children’s bank accounts. In recent months, Palestinian women have been actively voicing their demands for recognition of their political, social and economic rights and protection against gender-based violence.

I am concerned about the 17 October decision by the Ramallah Magistrate Court which ordered the blocking of some 50 Palestinian and Arabic websites and Facebook pages, deemed critical of the Palestinian Authority and its officials. The fundamental right of freedom of opinion and expression, and its associated freedom to receive information are important and must be protected.

Following criticism from the Journalist Syndicate and a petition from the National Human Rights Institution, the interpretation of the Cybercrimes degree – used as the legal basis for the decision – was referred to the Constitutional Court on 24 October.

Madam President,

Turning to developments in the region, popular protests continue to take place in several countries, from Iraq to Lebanon, with people demanding improvements to their daily lives and end to corruption.

In Lebanon, an estimated 1.5 million Lebanese engaged in largely peaceful demonstrations against the deteriorating economic situation and corruption. In response, the Council of Ministers on 21 October adopted a series of reform measures and finalized the 2020 State budget, with a 0.6% public deficit target. The protests however continue, with calls for the resignation of the Government.

In Iraq, from 1 to 9 October, anti-government protests took place across the country, notably in Baghdad and in the southern governorates, and turned violent, resulting in scores of fatalities. The report of a government investigation, released on 22 October, put the total number of fatalities at 157, citing a lack of control at a local level by senior officials in addition to the unauthorized use of force, including live ammunition, by security forces. The Government has announced measures to address the legitimate demands of the protesters, including employment opportunities for young Iraqis and housing subsidies for the poor.

A second round of large-scale demonstrations started in the late evening of 24 October in Baghdad and other locations in the South and continues to date. Intense clashes were reported as well as the destruction of public and private property and the presence of armed spoilers. As of 27 October, the Independent High Commission of Human Rights (IHCHR), registered 74 deaths and 3654 injured (most of them treated and left the hospitals), as well as 90 buildings burned.

In Syria, in almost nine years of conflict, we have witnessed the devastating toll on civilians, including serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law; alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity; systematic detention and torture, attacks on medical facilities, on schools, and on IDP camps; and the erosion of norms prohibiting the use of chemical weapons. A whole generation of Syrian children has grown up in war. Hundreds of thousands of people have been killed and half the country’s population has been displaced.

The Secretary-General and this Council have been clear: a sustainable solution can only be reached through a UN-facilitated, credible political process in accordance with Security Council resolution 2254 (2015). It is hoped that the launch of the Constitutional Committee in Geneva will be the first step in a broader political process that will meet the legitimate aspirations of all Syrians.

Meanwhile, on the occupied Golan, the situation has remained relatively calm. The ceasefire between Israel and Syria continues to be maintained in an environment that remains volatile. Violations of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement, including breaches of the ceasefire line, continue to occur.

Madam President,

As we work to address the threats to international peace and security in the Middle East, we must never forget that that preventive diplomacy is one of the most important tools that we can use in order to diffuse tensions before they turn into confrontation. The people of the Middle East has seen enough violence and injustice. The region cannot afford another war and we must continue our efforts to de-escalate tensions and create openings for political solutions in the interest of peace.

In this context I would like to return to the Israeli-Palestinian question and remind everyone that despite our collective efforts to prevent war in Gaza, these efforts cannot be sustained on a purely humanitarian basis. They need a political perspective that illuminates a path forward to intra-Palestinian unity and ultimately a two-state solution.

We can no longer continue to address Gaza’s critical needs on a month-to-month basis, while failing to confront the broader political reality including the stiffening closures, violence and lack on unity.

Similarly, we also can no longer disregard the cracks emerging in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Settlement construction and expansion continues, the PA financial crisis is not fully resolved, and the economy continues to stagnate.

Therefore, we must re-assert, once again, that to advance the goal of a lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians the only way forward is to return to the negotiations with the goal of two-states, living side-by-side in peace, security and mutual recognition, based on relevant UN resolutions, international law and prior agreements.

As in Israel and Palestine, so in the rest of the Middle East, our collective efforts must be guided by the UN charter. In each conflict in the region preventive diplomacy and de-escalation are critical element of our engagement. Long term sustainable peace however can only be based on justice, human rights, and international law.

Thank you.

In one month, on 30 October 2019, I intend to convene 150 Syrian men and women for the launch of a Syrian-led, Syrian-owned, credible, balanced and inclusive Constitutional Committee facilitated by the United Nations in Geneva. I believe this should be a sign of hope for the long-suffering Syrian people. It comes after the agreement of the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic and the Syrian Negotiations Commission to a package deal of the nominees to the committee and a Terms of Reference and Core Rules of Procedure to guide its work. I believe we should stop for a minute and take stock of the significance of this agreement. This is indeed the first concrete political agreement between the Government and the Opposition to begin to implement a key aspect of Security Council resolution 2254 – to set a schedule and process for a new constitution. It implies a clear acceptance of the other as an interlocutor.

NICKOLAY MLADENOV

SPECIAL COORDINATOR FOR THE MIDDLE EAST PEACE PROCESS

BRIEFING TO THE SECURITY COUNCIL

ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF SECURITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION 2334 (2016)

20 September 2019

Mr. President,

Members of the Security Council,

Today I will devote my regular briefing on the situation in the Middle East to presenting, on behalf of the Secretary-General, the eleventh report on the implementation of Security Council resolution 2334 (2016), which covers the period between 11 June and 11 September 2019.

Let me reiterate that developments during this reporting period cannot be divorced from the broader context: Israel’s continued military occupation of Palestinian territory, settlement activity and the threat of annexation; Hamas’ continuing hold over Gaza, and its militant activity; unilateral actions that undermine peace efforts and severe challenges to the fiscal viability of the Palestinian Authority; and the persistent risk of military escalation in the region. All these developments collectively erode the prospects of a two-State solution.

Mr. 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 steps were taken to that effect during the reporting period.

During this period, however, Israeli authorities advanced some 3,000 housing units in the occupied West Bank, including some 400 units in East Jerusalem. Among the plans advanced were 354 units in Nili, 346 in Beit El, and 215 in Asfar, which are all located east of the route of the separation barrier. In addition, the Security Cabinet reportedly discussed on 30 July the advancement of another 6,000 housing units. In a rare step the Government also approved granting construction permits for 715 housing units for Palestinians living in Area C.

A decision by the District Court in Jerusalem published on 29 June determined that under the so-called “market regulation” principle, four houses built in the Israeli settlement of Alei Zahav could be retroactively “regularized” under Israeli law, despite being built on private Palestinian land without the consent of the owner. The “market regulation” principle allows for houses built “in good faith” on private Palestinian land without the consent of the owner to be retroactively regularized under Israeli law and the owner is compensated. This decision is the first implementation of this principle, according to which up to 2,000 housing units in settlements could be retroactively regularized.

In response to the 23 August terrorist attack near Dolev, the Israeli Government decided to submit a plan for the establishment of a new neighbourhood in the settlement with approximately 300 new housing units. This decision is in line with the practice to expand settlements in the wake of attacks in the West Bank.

Finally, on 29 August, a year after being evicted from a disputed building in Hebron’s H2 area, several dozen Israelis moved into the compound, despite ongoing legal proceedings to determine its ownership.

Mr. President,

Demolitions and seizures of Palestinian-owned structures by Israeli authorities have continued across the occupied West Bank, including in East Jerusalem.

Citing the absence of Israeli-issued building permits, which are nearly impossible for Palestinians to obtain in Area C and in East Jerusalem, 165 Palestinian-owned structures were demolished or seized during the reporting period, resulting in the displacement of 170 people, including 85 children. Of those, nine structures were demolished by their owners, including seven in East Jerusalem and two in Area C of the West Bank.

On 22 June, Israeli authorities demolished nine buildings in the Wadi Hummus / Sur Bahir neighbourhood of East Jerusalem, most of them located in Areas A and B of the West Bank although on the “Jerusalem” side of the wall, citing their proximity to the separation barrier as a security concern. This resulted in the displacement of 24 Palestinians, including 14 children.

On 3 July, the authorities delivered several demolition orders for structures in the Hebron governorate, the first such orders based on Military Order 1797, which authorizes an expedited process for demolition of unauthorized “new structures” in Area C, and gives owners only 96 hours to demonstrate to Israeli authorities that they possess a valid building permit. During the reporting period, three structures have been demolished on the basis of this Military Order.

On 10 July, after a costly 24-year legal battle, a Palestinian family was evicted from its property in the Silwan neighbourhood of East Jerusalem and the premises handed over to Israelis. This was done after an Israeli Court ruled in favour of a settler-related organization, which had obtained ownership of much of the property.

On 26 August, Israeli authorities demolished a house and a restaurant (the latter for the third time) in Beit Jala, displacing five Palestinians and affecting the livelihoods of another 32. Following the demolition, a new settlement outpost was reportedly established nearby, without a building permit from Israeli authorities.

Mr. President,

Security Council resolution 2334 (2016) also “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.” However, the reporting period saw worrying levels of violence, throughout the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

In the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, three Palestinians, including one child, and two Israelis, including one child, were killed, and 336 Palestinians and 21 Israelis were injured in various incidents, including in clashes with ISF, security operations, attacks and settler-related violence.

On 27 June in al-Issawiya neighborhood of East Jerusalem a 21-year-old Palestinian, who is alleged to have targeted Israeli forces with fireworks, was shot and killed by a policeman. Throughout the following two months, tensions in the neighbourhood remained high, as Israeli security forces conducted raids, house searches and arrests, including of children. These operations have triggered clashes with residents and were usually conducted at night, causing disruption and trauma to residents and businesses.

According to OHCHR, on 30 June, three Israeli settlers physically assaulted a 70-year-old Palestinian man living near the Abraham Spring in the H2 area of Hebron. On 6 July, a group of seven Israeli children physically assaulted a 10-year-old Palestinian child near the Ibrahimi Mosque in the H2 area of Hebron.

On 12 July, a 9-year-old Palestinian boy was shot in the forehead by ISF during clashes in Kafr Qaddum, West Bank, and remains in critical condition.

On 8 August, a 19-year old Israeli was stabbed to death in the West Bank, close to the settlement of Migdal Oz, south of Bethlehem. Two Palestinian suspects were later arrested by the ISF.

On 15 August, two Palestinian teens stabbed and injured an Israeli police officer in Jerusalem’s Old City. One of the assailants was shot and killed.

On 16 August, two Israeli teens were injured in a car ramming attack near the settlement of Elazar, south of Bethlehem. The 26-year-old driver was shot and killed by an off-duty Israeli policeman.

On 23 August, an improvised explosive device (IED) was detonated near the settlement of Dolev, northwest of Ramallah, killing a 17-year-old Israeli girl and severely injuring her father and brother.

According to the OHCHR, a Palestinian family was forced to leave their home in the West Bank village of Urif after repeated attacks over the past year.

Mr. President,

Tensions in Jerusalem’s Old City also continued. On 10 August, the Muslim Eid al-Adha and the Jewish commemoration of Tisha B’Av coincided, which led to tensions at the Holy Sites. Israeli authorities allowed Jewish visitors to access al-Haram al-Sharif / Temple Mount on that day under police protection. In the days before the holiday, Muslim religious leaders had urged worshippers to come en masse to al-Aqsa Mosque for Eid prayers. Clashes between police forces and worshippers reportedly resulted in 29 Palestinians and four ISF injured.

Mr. President,

In Gaza the overall levels of violence and ensuing casualties have decreased, but tensions continue. During the reporting period the IDF used riot dispersal means and live ammunition against the continuing “Great March of Return” demonstrations. In this context, four Palestinians, including two children, were killed and 496 were injured by live fire. 10 Palestinian militants meanwhile were killed in other incidents and 13 were injured, while one Israeli soldier was injured by a grenade thrown across the fence and three were injured in other incidents.

In the same period 33 rockets and mortar shells were launched from Gaza towards Israel. Most were intercepted but 18 landed in Israeli towns, causing material damage.

Although fewer incendiary kites, balloons and other devices have been launched from Gaza compared to the last reporting period, at least 140 fires were reported in Israel.

In a worrying development on 27 August, three Palestinian policemen were killed, and three pedestrians were injured in two separate apparent suicide explosions targeting police checkpoints inside Gaza.

On 6 September, ISF shot and killed two Palestinian teenagers, aged 14 and 17, during the Great March of Return demonstrations at the Gaza perimeter fence.

On 7 September, according to the IDF, an armed drone launched from Gaza dropped an explosive device on an Israeli military vehicle at the perimeter fence. In retaliation the IDF struck a number of Hamas targets in Gaza.

Separately, between 23 and 27 June, three men were arrested and reportedly subjected to ill treatment during interrogation by Hamas for organizing a charity event coordinated with an NGO connected to Israel. Between 6 and 8 August, at least four men were detained after they criticized Hamas on social media. All were subsequently released.

Mr. President,

Security Council resolution 2334 (2016) calls upon the parties “to refrain from provocative actions, incitement, and inflammatory rhetoric.” Unfortunately, such actions continued during the reporting period.

On 12 July, a senior Hamas official called on Palestinians overseas “to attack every Jew on the globe by way of slaughter and killing,” telling them “enough of the warming up.” The official’s statement was condemned as “repugnant” by the Palestinian Authority (PA), and Hamas said that it did not represent the organization’s views. On several occasions, however, officials from Hamas and other Palestinian factions welcomed and celebrated stabbing, car ramming and bombing attacks against Israelis in the occupied West Bank, calling the perpetrators “heroic.” Fatah officials also continued to honour and glorify perpetrators of past terrorist attacks.

Israeli officials also continued to make provocative and inflammatory statements. Leading politicians have sought to publicly minimize the connection of Palestinians to their ancestral land, called for the annexation of Israeli settlements in Area C of the West Bank, and rejected the notion of Palestinian statehood. During a visit to Hebron on 4 September, senior Israeli officials reiterated pledges for the expansion of settlements there, and for the annexation of the city. Further, on 10 September, the Prime Minister declared his intention, if elected, to “apply Israeli sovereignty over the Jordan Valley and the northern Dead Sea” as a first step to applying Israeli sovereignty over “settlements in Judea and Samaria as well as additional areas with significance for [Israel’s] security, heritage and future.”

Mr. 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 imperilling the two-State solution.” Some positive developments were witnessed during the reporting period, but they were once again overshadowed by negative trends.

In Gaza, the United Nations and its partners continued to implement the critical economic and humanitarian interventions identified in UNSCO’s last two reports to the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee (AHLC). With these efforts, the energy supply to households in Gaza has more than doubled, and some improvements were felt in the economy. A slight decrease of the unemployment rate to 46.7% in the second quarter of 2019 from 47% was reported.

Qatar has continued to generously fund the supply of fuel for the Gaza Power Plant, and the daily availability of electricity has more than doubled. More than 10,000 jobs, including 3,000 for women, have been created by UNDP, UNRWA and other UN Agencies.

Some easing of the import and export restrictions by Israel, additional permits, as well as the extension of permitted fishing zone to 15 nautical miles from the coast and the return of confiscated fishing boats are a welcome development.

Despite these efforts, Gaza’s health system remains on the brink of collapse. In July, 44% of essential medicines in Gaza were completely depleted and 26% of essential medical disposables had less than a month’s supply remaining. Over 1000 people injured in Gaza will require complex limb reconstruction treatment or may risk losing limbs due to infection.

On 22 August, Israel and the PA reached an arrangement, whereby the PA received on an ad hoc basis approximately USD 568 million in reimbursed taxes levied by Israel on fuel. While providing some temporary relief, the Palestinian Government’s ability to deliver services remains severely affected by the continued disagreement over the bulk of the tax revenue transfers.

On 27 August, Palestinian families demonstrated throughout the West Bank and Gaza, calling for the return by Israel of bodies of Palestinians killed while allegedly carrying out attacks or in clashes with ISF. In a decision on 9 September, the Israeli High Court of Justice reversed an earlier ruling and decided that Israel is authorized to withhold Palestinian bodies. According to the PA, 253 Palestinian bodies are withheld by Israel.

Sadly, almost two years after the reconciliation agreement brokered by Egypt, intra-Palestinian divisions remain deeply entrenched.

The generous support of Member States to date has allowed UNRWA to reduce its funding shortfall from USD 211 million in January 2019 to USD 120 million. As a result, half a million Palestinian children resumed school on time this year. In East Jerusalem, however, UNRWA has reported on efforts by the Israeli Jerusalem municipality to interfere with its work, including obstructing solid waste services in Shu’fat camp, replicating sanitation services and attempting to enter an UNRWA vocational training center in Qalandia without the Agency authorization.

Mr. President,

Security Council resolution 2334 (2016) called on Member States “to distinguish, in their relevant dealings, between the territory of the State of Israel and the territories occupied in 1967.”

I note ongoing separate proceedings in the European Court of Justice and the Federal Court of Canada related to the labelling of products originating in Israel and the territories occupied in 1967.

The resolution also called upon “all parties to continue, inter alia, to exert collective efforts to launch credible negotiations.” No meaningful efforts have been made in this direction during the reporting period.

Mr. President,

In closing, on behalf of the Secretary-General, I would like to share some broad observations concerning the implementation of the of resolution 2334 (2016) during the reporting period.

1. The expansion of settlements has no legal validity and constitutes a flagrant violation under international law, as stated in Security Council resolution 2334 (2016). It must cease immediately and completely. The expansion of illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, continues unabated. The existence and expansion of settlements, including in occupied East Jerusalem, fuel anger and disillusionment among the Palestinian population and significantly undermine the prospects for establishing a contiguous and viable Palestinian state with Jerusalem as the future capital of both states.

1. I reiterate the Secretary-General’s concern over statements regarding the annexation of the Jordan Valley and northern Dead Sea as a first step to applying Israeli sovereignty over all settlements and other areas in the occupied West Bank. Such steps, if implemented, would constitute a serious violation of international law. They would be devastating to the potential of reviving negotiations and regional peace, while severely undermining the viability of the two-State solution.

1. The demolition and seizure of Palestinian structures also continues. The Sur Bahir demolitions, the evictions in Silwan in East Jerusalem as well as the use of military order 1797 to demolish structures are particularly concerning. Some 200 Palestinian families in East Jerusalem have eviction cases filed against them, mostly by settler-related organizations. The number of structures demolished, and people displaced since the beginning of 2019 has already exceeded figures for the entire year of 2018. Such policies must be reversed, and Israel should abide by its obligations under international law.

1. The situation in Gaza remains very volatile. It is shameful and intolerable that people, including children, continue to be killed and injured during demonstrations or by indiscriminate rocket attacks, or other hostile acts. Israeli security forces have the responsibility to exercise maximum restraint and shall only use intentional lethal force when strictly necessary, as a last resort, and in response to an imminent threat of death or serious injury, in accordance with international law. Children should never be the target of attacks nor should they be exposed to violence. The launching of rockets and mortars towards Israeli civilian populations is prohibited by international humanitarian law and Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad must cease this practice immediately.

1. I unequivocally condemn all attacks on Palestinian and Israeli civilians, including settler-related violence, and call on all sides to refrain from violence and to clearly and unequivocally condemn attacks when they occur. All perpetrators must be held accountable for their crimes.

1. I reiterate the call for the status quo at the Holy Sites in Jerusalem to be upheld in line with the special and historic role of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan as custodian of the Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

1. I remain deeply concerned about developments relating to the clearance of revenues of the Palestinian Authority. Despite the PA’s temporary reprieve as a result of the reimbursed taxes levied by Israel on fuel, the financial crisis is far from over. I urge both sides to engage in a constructive manner with the goal of restoring the revenue transfer in full in line with the Paris Protocol on Economic Relations.
2. I would like to also reiterate that the fate of two Israeli civilians and the bodies of two IDF soldiers missing in Gaza remain an important humanitarian concern for all of us.

1. Despite our sustained efforts, the deteriorating humanitarian and economic situation in Gaza is a mounting concern. It is not possible to genuinely and sustainably improve the socio-economic situation there without significantly easing restrictions on the movement and access of goods and people, with the goal of ultimately lifting them in line with Security Council resolution 1860 (2009), and reuniting Gaza and the West Bank under a single, legitimate Palestinian national authority. At the same time, it is crucial to ensure that the current calm be sustained in order to gradually introduce longer-term projects that will support Gaza’s development.

1. I reiterate the call on all Palestinian factions to actively engage with Egypt on reconciliation. Despite the challenges, it is critical that these efforts continue. The United Nations remains steadfast in its support of Egypt’s efforts in this regard, and all Palestinian factions must take concrete steps to ensure the reunification of Gaza and the West Bank. Gaza is, and must remain, an integral part of a future Palestinian State as part of the two-State solution.

Mr. President,

As we approach three years since the passing of Security Council resolution 2334 (2016), we can only lament the worsening situation on the ground. Settlements have expanded, demolitions have accelerated, violence and incitement have continued, achieving intra-Palestinian unity seems an ever-more distant prospect, and credible negotiations have yet to be launched.

It is hard to tolerate the steady deterioration of the already difficult status-quo. It reflects the collective failure of leaders, politicians and the international community to deliver on the vision that peace between the State of Israel and the State of Palestine can be achieved through peaceful negotiations with support from the international community, based on 1967 lines, international law, relevant UN resolutions and prior agreements. There is no other viable solution to end the conflict. Those who continue to support a two-State outcome must acknowledge that derailing that prospect means that Palestinians and Israelis are facing a grim future of perpetual occupation, endless violence and threats to regional stability.

Thank you.

The scale of violence and instability in Syria is extremely alarming. We have an ever-rising civilian death toll; millions displaced; untold tens of thousands detained or missing; large parts of the Syrian territory fragmented between different actors; confrontations between states on multiple axes; a resurgent ISIL stepping up its guerrilla attacks; and not yet the launch of a real political process.