President,
Thank you for convening this Assembly after the casting of veto by the
USA on 18 September, in line with the provisions of Resolution 76/262.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated to levels of suffering
that defy comprehension. Famine has been officially declared. On average,
no fewer than 25 children have lost their lives each day.
Norway deeply regrets that, throughout the course of this war, the
Security Council has been hindered, by one veto power, time and time
again to agree on a resolution demanding the immediate and unconditional
removal of all barriers to humanitarian assistance entering Gaza. It has
also fallen short of securing a ceasefire and release of hostages.
The Council has been hindered to act to ensure international peace and
security; and thus failed to protect civilians; and failed to address the
repeated violations of international humanitarian law committed in this
conflict.
President,
Norway welcomes the “Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict”,
announced by President Trump.
We urge the parties to seize the opportunity to end this war. For the sake
of the Palestinian population and for the Israeli hostages.
We commend the plan’s call for immediate and unhindered entry of
humanitarian aid into Gaza – through the UN and its agencies, the Red
Crescent and other international entities not associated with the parties.
President,
While President Trump’s Peace Plan is an important first step, much
remains to be done. The war must end; but the deeply rooted Israeli –
Palestinian conflict must also be resolved.
A return to the situation prior to Hamas’ terrorist attack of 7 October 2023
is neither viable nor acceptable. The occupation must end throughout all of
Palestine—not only in Gaza, but also in the West Bank, including East
Jerusalem.
And – any solution excluding Palestinian participation and rights will lack
legitimacy. It will not bring lasting stability.
Only a negotiated two-state solution can provide a just and secure future —
for both Palestinians and Israelis.
GA: The Use of the Veto
Statement delivered by Permanent Representative Ambassador Merete Fjeld Bratttested in Debate pursuant to resolution 76/262 (The Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question)