President,
Let me first join others in welcoming the agreement on the first phase of the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict.
We would like to pay tribute to the US and President Donald Trump for this breakthrough, as well as to the Qatari, Egyptian, and Turkish mediators who helped make it happen.
The ceasefire agreement brings real hope of an end to the suffering in Gaza. All living Israeli hostages have been reunited with their families and loved ones; many Palestinian prisoners have been released from Israeli prisons.
It is vital that all parties now respect and honor the agreement and that humanitarian aid can reach the many who need it. Hamas must be demobilized; Israeli forces must withdraw from Gaza.
However, the path to lasting peace is still long. Israel’s occupation must end, both in Gaza and the West Bank.
All processes regarding the future of Palestine must be led by Palestinians; and the Palestinian Government must be enabled to govern all of Palestine, including Gaza.
Only a two-state solution can provide the foundation for lasting peace, security, and dignified lives for people in both Israel and Palestine. We are committed to taking forward the work of the Global Alliance in follow-up to the New York Declaration. As chairs of the International Donor Group for Palestine [AHLC], Norway stands ready to contribute.
President,
Norway especially commends the 20 Point Plan for putting the UN and The Red Crescent at the core of the humanitarian response; and for stating clearly that the entry of aid will proceed without interference from the two parties.
This is in line with the strong message from the International Court of Justice in its Advisory Opinion yesterday - Israel has an obligation to facilitate life-saving humanitarian aid and basic services - delivered by the UN, international organizations, and States - to Palestinians living under occupation in Palestine.
Despite the ceasefire agreement, Israel continues restricting the access of goods into Gaza. It's therefore highly valuable that the ICJ now has specified the international legal obligations Israel must adhere to.
The ICJ has further reaffirmed that no State can place itself above its obligations under international law. This is essential, both for Palestinians and for all other populations living in situations of war and conflict.
Respect for international law is a prerequisite both for a rules-based international order and a peaceful world. This is the world that Norway will continue to fight for.