President,
Last Thursday this Assembly overwhelmingly adopted a resolution calling for a ceasefire in and humanitarian access to Gaza. 14 members of the Security Council agree with the Assembly.
Norway therefore strongly regrets that the Security Council – again – failed to pronounce itself on this situation.
With the latest regional escalation, we call for restraint by the parties involved and for respect for international law. Now, more than ever, we need to keep focused on the civilians in Gaza and the West Bank; they must not be forgotten.
Israel has for more than three months severely restricted access to humanitarian aid, including food, medicine and fuel to Gaza. The inhumane conditions imposed on the civilians in Gaza are unacceptable. Ocha warns us that the Gaza strip can enter full-fledged famine by September. This must end now.
Women in Gaza are disproportionately impacted. Women, Peace and Security Commitments must be upheld.
President,
Using starvation as a method of warfare and killing civilians seeking aid is a violation of international law, and Norway strongly opposes it.
As an occupying power Israel is obliged to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches all the population in need. Norway demands the immediate and permanent facilitation of full, rapid, safe and unhindered entry and movement of humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza. The UN and humanitarian organizations operating in accordance with humanitarian principles must be allowed to do their job.
Norway continues to call on both parties to agree to an immediate ceasefire. The only way to stop the suffering of civilians in Gaza and secure the release of all remaining hostages is to stop the war.
A two-state solution is the only way to end the conflict and secure long-lasting peace and security for Palestinians and Israelis alike.
Norway firmly opposes any measures that jeopardize the establishment of an independent Palestinian state and the viability of a two-state solution. Presently, more than 80 percent of Gaza is under Israeli military control or subject to evacuation orders. Increased settlement activities in the West Bank aims to consolidate Israeli control over Palestinian territory. These actions are in clear violation of international law.
Norway welcomes the leadership of France and Saudi Arabia in chairing the High-level International UN Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.
I thank you.