STATEMENT
Human Rights Council 55th Session.
Item 2 - Interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on the human rights situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and the obligation to ensure accountability and justice.
Statement delivered by Ambassador Mr. Tormod C. ENDRESEN,
Permanent Representative of Norway.
Check against delivery
28 February 2024
Mr. President,
We thank the High Commissioner for his continued reporting. We share the High Commissioner’s concern over the drastic worsening of the human rights situation in Palestine.
Norway has condemned the October 7 attacks, and called for the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas and other groups.
The situation in Gaza is nothing short of catastrophic. The population continues to be deprived of their basic human rights, including the right to food, water, and health care.
Norway has therefore repeatedly called for a sustained and enduring humanitarian ceasefire and for unhindered humanitarian access. International law must be respected by all. Humanitarian actors must be protected. Attacks on them should have consequences. There is no room for double standards in international law.
In addition to Gaza, we continue to see a rapid expansion of illegal settlements in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. House evictions, demolitions, movement restrictions and settler violence run counter to human rights and the right to self-determination of the Palestinian people.
We strongly support all efforts for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and accountability for all violations of international law. Peace is needed to break the cycle of violence and ensure respect for human rights for all.
UNWRA represents a lifeline for millions of Palestinians. While there must be accountability for any misconduct by UNWRA staff we cannot, especially in the current extremely serious circumstances, discontinue our funding. We urge all countries who have suspended their contributions to adhere to their commitments.
We call on Israel to grant access to the Occupied Palestinian Territory for all OHCHR staff.
It is imperative that there is a clear path towards a two-state solution based on international recognized borders and international law, including the right to self-determination.
Thank you.