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TOR WENNESLAND

SPECIAL COORDINATOR FOR THE MIDDLE EAST PEACE PROCESS

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

24 May 2023

Madam President,

Members of the Security Council,

This past month, we were reminded again of the volatile security situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, as yet another deadly escalation between Israel and Palestinian armed factions in Gaza took place.

While the ceasefire is holding, conflict mitigation efforts must also be met with steps by both sides – supported by the international community – to reset a trajectory out of the cycle of violence. I call on all parties to stop unilateral and inflammatory actions that undermine prospects for peace, and to address the acute financial and institutional challenges facing the Palestinian Authority.

I am particularly alarmed by the funding crisis facing UN agencies supporting basic services and social support, including emergency food assistance, to Palestinians. Without new funding, World Food Program will suspend cash assistance to some 200,000 Palestinians next week and UNRWA will not have the resources to deliver core services in September. This comes alongside existing financial challenges facing the PA and declining donor support overall. I encourage Member States to immediately seek ways to increase their support to Palestinians, including funding to UNRWA and WFP, without which we will face serious humanitarian and, potentially, security challenges.

There is no time to spare.

Madam President,

Tensions increased between Israel and Palestinian armed factions in the Gaza Strip on 2 May, when a Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) leader, Khader Adnan, died in an Israeli jail following an 86-day hunger strike. In response, PIJ and other armed factions in Gaza fired over 100 rockets towards Israel, causing damage but no injuries. The Israeli Air Force responded with airstrikes against what it said were Hamas and PIJ targets in the Strip, killing one Palestinian and causing damage. Following intensive efforts by Egypt, Qatar and the United Nations, hostilities ended on 3 May.

One week later, in the early hours of 9 May, the Israeli Air Force carried out airstrikes in Gaza that killed three senior members of PIJ’s military wing in their homes; Israeli officials said the three were responsible for firing the rockets on 2 May. The strikes, against residential structures, also killed ten civilians – family members and neighbors – including women and children.

Over five days, Israel conducted 323 airstrikes against what it said were PIJ military targets in Gaza, while Palestinian militants, mainly PIJ’s al-Quds Brigades, launched over 1,200 rockets and more than 250 mortars towards Israel, of which nearly 300 fell short within Gaza and more than 400 were intercepted by Israel’s aerial defense system.

Thirty-three Palestinians, including at least 12 civilians – four women and six children – were killed during the hostilities. Of those, one Palestinian worker was killed in Israel by rocket-fire from Gaza and the UN is verifying reports that at least three fatalities were due to rockets falling short within the Strip. According to the Ministry of Health in Gaza, 190 Palestinians were injured, including at least 38 women and 64 children. One Israeli civilian woman was killed by rocket-fire. According to Israeli authorities, six Israelis were moderately injured and 89 lightly injured.

The escalation compounded the already dire humanitarian situation in the Strip. According to authorities in Gaza, nearly 100 housing units were completely destroyed and more than 125 were damaged and rendered uninhabitable, displacing more than 1100 Palestinians.

Israeli authorities closed both crossings between Gaza and Israel, preventing the entry of food, medical supplies and fuel for the Gaza Power Plant. As a result, hundreds of patients were unable to access essential medical care in the West Bank or in Israel.

Throughout, the United Nations engaged intensively with all parties, alongside efforts by Egypt, together with regional and international partners, including Qatar, to end the hostilities and prevent further loss of life. I commend Egypt for its role in bringing the parties to a ceasefire.

Madam President,

I am deeply concerned that civilians continue to bear the brunt of such hostilities. I am particularly appalled that children, who must never be the target of violence, continue to be victims.

I echo the Secretary-General’s condemnation of the unacceptable loss of civilian lives and his call on Israel to abide by its obligations under international humanitarian law, including the proportional use of force and the taking of all feasible precautions, to spare civilians in the conduct of military operations.

I also reiterate the Secretary-General’s condemnation of the launching of indiscriminate rockets from Gaza towards Israel, including from densely populated residential areas, which violates international humanitarian law.

Madam President,

Turning to the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, the level of violence remained high.

Seventeen Palestinians, including two children, were killed and 138 Palestinians, including two women and 23 children, were injured by Israeli security forces during demonstrations, clashes, search-and-arrest operations, attacks and alleged attacks against Israelis, and other incidents. Another 24 Palestinians, including two children, were injured by Israeli settlers or other civilians in shooting attacks, stone-throwing and other incidents.

Thirty-three Israeli civilians, including four women, as well as four Israeli security forces personnel were injured by Palestinians in shooting and ramming attacks, clashes, the throwing of stones and Molotov cocktails, and other incidents.

As in previous months, many Palestinian casualties occurred in the context of Israeli military operations in Area A and subsequent armed clashes. On 4 May in Nablus, ISF killed three Palestinian members of Hamas’ military wing, who, according to ISF, were responsible for the April killing of three Israeli civilians in the Jordan Valley. ISF also killed three Palestinians during an operation in Qabatiya, south of Jenin, on 10 May, one of whom was an unarmed bystander.

Three Palestinians were killed while carrying out attacks or alleged attacks against Israeli security forces: an alleged ramming attack near Salfit on 27 April, a stabbing attack in Huwwara, near Nablus, by a Palestinian woman resulting in light injury on 4 May; and an alleged stabbing attempt at a checkpoint west of Jenin on 13 May.

During the reporting period, Israeli forces imposed significant movement restrictions, particularly around Jericho, Nablus and Hebron following either Palestinian attacks or stone throwing – affecting tens of thousands of Palestinians and their local economies.

Thousands of right-wing Israeli activists, including senior Government Ministers, participated in the highly provocative annual “flag day” march through Jerusalem’s Old City, marking Jerusalem Day. Many chanted racist slogans, including “Death to Arabs,” with scuffles breaking out between Israeli participants and Palestinians. Israelis also threw bottles and other objects towards media covering the event, injuring two journalists.

Such provocations and incitement – which continued in the days after the march - are unacceptable and must be condemned by all. I also reiterate that the status quo at the Holy Sites must be respected.

Levels of settler-related violence also remained high, with five Palestinians shot and injured by Israeli settlers using live ammunition.

I reiterate that all perpetrators of violence must be held accountable and swiftly brought to justice.

Security forces must exercise maximum restraint and use lethal force only when strictly unavoidable to protect life.

Madam President,

From 3 to 4 May, the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee convened in Brussels, where the parties and donors discussed measures to support Palestinian institution-building and strengthen the Palestinian Authority (PA) and economy. The Chair’s summary called on both sides to implement previous agreements between them, commit to de-escalation and refrain from steps that undermine Palestinian institutions and the two-State solution, while calling on the international community to increase assistance to Palestinians, including through support to UNRWA.

Madam President,

I regret to observe more settlement plans being moved forward, with tenders published for some 310 housing units in Area C and demolitions continuing.

On 18 May, the Israeli military issued an order – in line with the Knesset’s March amendment to the 2005 Disengagement Law – to allow Israelis to re-enter the area of the evacuated settlement of Homesh, built on private Palestinian-owned land in the northern West Bank.

During the reporting period, Israeli authorities demolished, seized or forced owners to demolish 33 Palestinian-owned structures in Area C and 17 in East Jerusalem, including a donor-funded school east of Bethlehem, displacing 89 Palestinians, including 45 children.

The demolitions were carried out due to the lack of Israeli-issued building permits, which are nearly impossible for Palestinians to obtain.

On 7 May, Israel’s High Court of Justice rejected a petition to compel Israeli authorities to carry out demolition orders against the Palestinian village of Khan al-Ahmar. The justices agreed with the Israeli Government’s position that the court should not intervene in setting a timeline for the demolition. The court also agreed that the demolition should not be carried out at this time, citing Israel’s security and foreign relations.

I reiterate that all settlements are illegal under international law and that they are a substantial obstacle to peace and must stop.

I also call on Israeli authorities to end the displacement and eviction of Palestinians and to approve plans that would enable Palestinians to build legally and address their development needs.

Madam President,

Turning to the region, on the Golan, while the ceasefire between Israel and Syria has been generally maintained, the situation continues to be volatile due to violations of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement by the parties.

The situation along the Blue Line remained stable following the 6 April breach of the cessation of hostilities.

Madam President,

In recent weeks, the UN, together with regional and international partners, mobilized once again to end hostilities between armed factions in Gaza and Israel. Such efforts are crucial to saving Palestinian and Israeli lives.

Nevertheless, we must also keep issues fundamental to creating the conditions for a lasting peace at the forefront.

The immediate priority is to support steps to bolster the PA and preserve critical services for the Palestinian people. These steps should be implemented in a way that encourages the parties to engage with each other, including on underlying political issues.

This requires greater efforts by Israeli and Palestinian leaders, alongside increased support and attention from the international community.

We must take action -- not only to ensure Palestinian well-being and governance, but as an integral part of ending the occupation and restoring a political horizon toward a viable two-State solution, based on UN resolutions, international law and previous agreements.

Thank you.

We are at a potentially important juncture in efforts to move forward a political process on Syria. In the tragic aftermath of the earthquakes, we have seen renewed diplomatic attention on Syria. Diplomacy is continuing involving the Astana players and the Syrian Government. And there have been new openings of engagement between Arab countries and the Syrian Government.

TOR WENNESLAND

SPECIAL COORDINATOR FOR THE MIDDLE EAST PEACE PROCESS

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

25 April 2023

[As delivered]

Mister President,

Your Excellency Foreign Minister Lavrov, Foreign Minister Malki, Minister of State Shaheen al Marar,

Excellencies,

Members of the Security Council,

Days ago, Muslims around the world celebrated Eid al-Fitr, bringing to a close the holy month of Ramadan, which overlapped with Christian Easter and Jewish Passover.

This holy period, while mostly calm, regrettably also witnessed shocking incidents of violence at the Holy Sites and tensions across the Occupied Palestinian Territory and in Israel, with a brief escalation spilling over into the region.

While a wider-scale escalation was averted, with each de-escalation the stakes get higher and the tools at our disposal become fewer. The current trajectory is neither sustainable nor inevitable.

The parties, the region and the international community need to address the underlying political, security, economic and institutional challenges driving the conflict. There must be an end to the unilateral measures, provocations and incitement that enable violence and prevent progress toward resolving this conflict and ending the occupation.

Mister President,

Overall, in the occupied West Bank, 17 Palestinians, including two children, were killed and 200 Palestinians, including four women and 38 children, were injured by Israeli security forces during demonstrations, clashes, search-and-arrest operations, attacks and alleged attacks against Israelis, and other incidents. Another 39 Palestinians, including three women and four children, were injured by Israeli settlers or other civilians in shooting attacks, stone-throwing and other incidents.

Four Israeli civilians, including 2 women and 1 child, were killed and 31 injured, including 2 women, 1 child, and 12 Israeli security forces personnel, by Palestinians in shooting and ramming attacks, clashes, the throwing of stones and Molotov cocktails, and other incidents. In addition, a foreign national was killed, and 7 foreigners were injured.

The holiday period was largely observed peacefully, with millions of Muslim visitors to the Al Aqsa compound during Ramadan – the highest numbers in many years.

However, on 4 and 5 April, confrontations erupted at the Holy Sites in Jerusalem when Israeli security forces (ISF) entered the al-Qibli prayer hall of Al-Aqsa Mosque and forcibly removed Palestinians who were barricaded inside. ISF deployed stun grenades, beat Palestinians with batons and rifles, and fired rubber-coated metal bullets, while some Palestinians inside the mosque lit and threw fireworks and stones at ISF.

These developments came in the wake of provocative calls and incitement from several parties. Israeli extremists called for Jews to conduct ritual animal sacrifices at the Holy Sites. Hamas and other armed Palestinian factions called for Palestinians to go to Al Aqsa to resist such acts. As in previous years, Israeli police blocked attempts to carry out the animal sacrifices in the compound, arresting at least two Israelis.

Following these events at the Holy Sites, on 4 and 5 April, militants in Gaza and Lebanon fired dozens of rockets towards Israel. While some were intercepted by Israel’s aerial defense system, 46 landed in Israel, causing one injury and damage to property. The barrage from Lebanon was the most intensive since 2006.

Israel Defense Forces carried out airstrikes in Gaza and southern Lebanon on 7 April, aimed at what they said were Hamas targets. A children’s hospital and health clinic in Gaza were damaged, however, no injuries were reported.

Lebanon’s Prime Minister condemned the launching of rockets towards Israel. UN de-escalation efforts, as well as coordination and liaison by the parties with UNIFIL helped restore calm.

From 12 April, Israeli authorities prohibited non-Muslim visits to the site for the last days of Ramadan, in line with usual practice.

On 15 April, confrontations erupted between Israeli police and Orthodox Christian worshippers attempting to enter the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem’s Old City for the Holy Fire ceremony, exceeding an attendance limit enforced by Israeli authorities, citing safety concerns. The Greek Patriarchate and other church leaders criticized the limits on visitors, suggesting it was unjustifiably low and violated the status quo.

Mister President,

Other violence in the occupied West Bank and in Israel continued during the reporting period.

Many Palestinian casualties were incurred in Israeli military operations in Area A of the occupied West Bank and subsequent clashes, some of them armed

On 16 March, undercover Israeli forces entered Jenin, resulting in clashes. Israeli forces shot and killed four Palestinians, including a 14-year-old bystander. Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad claimed two of the individuals killed as members of their armed wings.

In Jerusalem’s Old City, on 1 April, an Arab-Israeli man was shot dead by ISF near an entrance to the Holy Sites in disputed circumstances.

On 7 April, two British-Israeli sisters, the youngest a 15-year-old girl, were killed in a shooting attack in the West Bank by perpetrators in a car with Palestinian plates. Their mother was critically wounded in the attack and died three days later. No arrests have been made.

The same day, an Italian national was killed, and seven other Italian and British nationals were wounded in Tel Aviv in what the Israeli police said was a ramming attack carried out by an Arab-Israeli man, who was shot dead at the scene by police. The alleged perpetrator’s family disputed the ramming allegation.

On 10 April, a 15-year-old Palestinian boy was shot and killed by ISF during an arrest operation and ensuing clashes in Aqbat Jaber refugee camp, near Jericho. Eyewitnesses said that the boy was a bystander, while the Israeli army said that soldiers returned fire after being shot at.

Levels of settler-related violence also remained high. Huwwara remained a flashpoint. On 25 March, Palestinians carried out a shooting attack in the town, injuring two Israeli soldiers. Israeli settlers entered the town the same day and again on 27 March, throwing stones that injured two Palestinians and damaged property.

On 6 April, an Israeli settler shot and injured a Palestinian boy in Jerusalem’s Old City.

On 18 April, two Israelis were shot and wounded while in their vehicle in the East Jerusalem neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah. The following day, ISF said they had arrested a 15-year-old Palestinian boy in Nablus who had confessed to carrying out the attack.

Mister President,

I am deeply concerned by the violence and inflammatory actions over the past weeks, particularly the violent confrontations inside al-Aqsa Mosque. I again urge respect for the status quo at the Holy Sites in Jerusalem, in line with the special role of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

I condemn the indiscriminate launching of rockets towards Israeli population centers.

I reiterate that acts of terror and targeting of civilians are abhorrent and must be condemned and rejected by all. All perpetrators of violence must be held accountable and swiftly brought to justice.

Security forces must exercise maximum restraint and use lethal force only when strictly unavoidable to protect life.

I am appalled that children continue to be the victims of violence. Children must never be the targets of violence, used or put in harm’s way.

Mister President,

On 19 March, senior Egyptian, Jordanian, Israeli, Palestinian and U.S. officials met in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, to further discuss understandings reached in Aqaba, Jordan on 23 February.

In the spirit of the agreements reached in Aqaba and Sharm el Sheikh, I urge all parties to exercise the utmost restraint and refrain from any steps that could exacerbate the situation, and to take concrete steps to implement the Joint Communiques.

I remain closely engaged with all relevant parties to de-escalate tensions and chart a political way forward.

Mister President,

Turning to settlement-related developments, on 22 March, Israeli authorities announced tenders for 940 housing units in settlements in Area C and 89 units in East Jerusalem.

On 10 April, Israeli Government Ministers and Members of Knesset joined over 15,000 settlers and other Israeli civilians in a heavily secured march to the illegal outpost of Evyatar in the northern West Bank, calling on the Government to legalize it under Israeli law.

I reiterate that all settlements are illegal under international law and that they are a substantial obstacle to peace.

I call on all parties to avoid unilateral measures and provocations, such as this march, that can further inflame tensions.

Mister President,

Demolitions and seizures of Palestinian-owned property remain a deep concern. During the reporting period, Israeli authorities demolished, seized or forced owners to demolish eleven Palestinian-owned structures in Area C and eight in East Jerusalem, displacing 14 Palestinians, including seven children, a relative decline reflecting a reduction during Ramadan, as in prior years. The demolitions were carried out due to the lack of Israeli-issued building permits, which are nearly impossible for Palestinians to obtain.

On 3 April, Israel’s Supreme Court ruled against the eviction of a Palestinian family from their home in the East Jerusalem neighborhood of Silwan, ending a 30-year legal battle.

I call on Israeli authorities to end the displacement and eviction of Palestinians and to approve additional plans that would enable Palestinians to build legally and address their development needs.

Mister President,

Turning to the region, on the Golan, Israel Defense Forces reported, from 8 to 9 April, six rockets launched from Syria towards Israel and their retaliation with artillery fire and airstrikes, targeting locations in Syria, including Syrian army positions. UNDOF was in contact with the Israel Defense Forces and Syrian authorities to de-escalate the situation, urging them to exercise maximum restraint and to respect the ceasefire, in accordance with the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement. No casualties were reported.

Mister President,

Amidst the deteriorating situation on the ground, the Palestinian Authority continues to face significant fiscal and institutional challenges. At the same time, the UN agencies, funds and programs that provide support to the Palestinian people, in coordination and complementarity with the PA, are facing significant funding shortfalls, notably World Food Programme and UNRWA, impacting basic service delivery.

I am particularly concerned by the prolonged closure of schools and UNRWA health clinics in the West Bank, where PA and UNRWA teachers, as well as UNRWA health staff, have been on strike for weeks, impacting children across the OPT.

Efforts are needed by the parties and the international community to strengthen Palestinian institutions, improve governance and shore up the fiscal health of the Palestinian Authority. These steps must be part of a broader political effort that addresses the underlying drivers of the conflict, provides the space and access needed for the Palestinian economy to grow and encourages the parties to update their economic and administrative relationship.

The forthcoming Ad Hoc Liaison Committee meeting in Brussels in early May provides an opportunity for a strategic shift in this direction.

Addressing these immediate challenges can also provide much needed momentum toward re-establishing a political horizon toward a two-State solution.

I urge Israelis, Palestinians, regional States and the broader international community to show leadership, re-engage and work collectively in the pursuit of peace with the aim of ending the occupation and resolving the conflict in line with international law, relevant United Nations resolutions and previous agreements, in pursuit of the vision of two States – Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, viable and sovereign Palestine – living side-by-side in peace and security within secure and recognized borders on the basis of the pre-1967 lines, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States.

Thank you.

I have just returned to Geneva from Amman where I briefed and engaged senior officials from Egypt, France, Germany, Jordan, Norway, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States, the European Union and the League of Arab States, focusing on the way forward in the aftermath of last month’s tragic earthquakes.

TOR WENNESLAND

UN SPECIAL COORDINATOR FOR THE MIDDLE EAST PEACE PROCESS

SECURITY COUNCIL BRIEFING ON THE SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST

REPORT Of THE SECRETARY-GENERAL ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF UNSCR 2334 (2016)

22 March 2023

Mister President,

Members of the Security Council,

Before turning to the Secretary-General’s report, I would like to note the beginning of the holiday period when the holy month of Ramadan coincides with Passover and Easter. I extend my good wishes to those who are observing these upcoming holy days. At the onset, I remind all that the status quo at the Holy Sites in Jerusalem must be respected. This should be a period for safe and peaceful religious reflections and celebrations for all. I urge all sides to refrain from unilateral steps that escalate tensions. I call on all leaders to engage to this end and refrain from provocative actions and messages at this sensitive time. I ask for calm.

Turning now to the Secretary-General’s 25th report on the implementation of Security Council resolution 2334 (2016), covering the period from 8 December 2022 to 13 March 2023.

Security Council resolution 2334 (2016) calls on Israel to “immediately and completely cease all settlement activities in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and to “fully respect all of its legal obligations in this regard.” Settlement activities have, nevertheless, continued during the reporting period.

On 27 December, Israeli settlers took control of a parcel of agricultural land leased by a Palestinian family from the Greek Orthodox Church since 1931 in the Silwan area of occupied East Jerusalem. The settlers maintain that they have purchased the land from the Church, a deal that the Church rejected as fraudulent.

On 2 January, the Israeli Government informed the High Court of Justice that it intends to legalize – under Israeli law – the outpost of Homesh, built on private Palestinian-owned land, including by repealing part of the 2005 Disengagement Law; relevant legislation is currently being advanced in the Knesset. On the same day, the Court gave the Government 90 days to explain why the outpost should not be evacuated.

On 12 February, the Israeli Government announced that it authorized nine outposts in the occupied West Bank and that the Higher Planning Committee (HPC) would convene within days to advance settlement housing units. The Committee subsequently advanced plans for over 7,200 settlement housing units, with approximately 4,000 located deep in the occupied West Bank. Nearly 1,000 of these are in outposts that are in the process of legalization under Israeli law.

Following multiple postponements, a meeting of the HPC Subcommittee for Objections on sensitive E1 settlement plans has been rescheduled for 12 June.

Demolitions and seizures of Palestinian-owned structures continued across the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Israeli authorities, citing the lack of Israeli-issued building permits, which are almost impossible for Palestinians to obtain, demolished, seized or forced people to demolish 331 structures. These actions displaced 388 people, including 89 women and 197 children. 61 structures were donor-funded.

On 7 February, Israel's High Court of Justice gave the Government until 2 April to submit its response to a petition to implement demolition orders on Khan al-Ahmar. The deadline was subsequently extended to 23 April. A hearing is set for 1 May.

On 7 February, Israeli authorities postponed demolition of a multi-story building housing 74 Palestinians in Silwan in occupied East Jerusalem.

Mister President,

Security Council resolution 2334 (2016) 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.” Unfortunately, daily violence increased significantly during the reporting period.

Eighty-two Palestinians, including one woman and 17 children, were killed by Israeli security forces during demonstrations, clashes, security operations, attacks against Israelis, and other incidents. 2,683 Palestinians, including 123 women and 320 children, were injured. Of that number, 308 were injured by live ammunition, while 2110 were injured from tear gas inhalation. In addition, four Palestinians were killed and 89 injured, including 14 women and 12 children, in a growing number of attacks by Israeli settlers that also caused damage to Palestinian-owned property.

13 Israeli civilians, including one woman and three children, and one foreign national were killed, and 49 Israelis, including two women and seven children, and six Israeli security forces personnel, were injured by Palestinians in shooting and ramming attacks, clashes, and other incidents. The majority of them were stone-throwing attacks against Israelis, including settlers, that resulted in injuries or damage to Israeli-owned property. One Israeli security forces personnel was shot and killed by a fellow soldier in the context of a stabbing attack by a Palestinian.

Israeli security forces carried out 1,084 search-and-arrest operations in the West Bank, resulting in 1,906 Palestinians arrested, including 133 children. Israel currently holds 967 Palestinians in administrative detention, the highest number in over a decade.

Mister President,

The high number of fatal incidents during the reporting period precludes us from detailing all but allow me to highlight a few.

In four Israeli search and arrest operations in Palestinian cities in Area A – on 26 January in Jenin, 6 February in Jericho, 22 February in Nablus, and 7 March in Jenin – 33 Palestinians, including a woman, an elderly man and four children, were killed by Israeli security forces amid armed exchanges. Of those killed, Palestinian militant groups have claimed 21 as members. The death toll in Nablus, with 11 Palestinians killed, was the highest recorded by the UN in a single West Bank incident since 2005.

The reporting period has also been marked by a spate of violence against civilians, including acts of terror.

In occupied East Jerusalem, six Israelis, including a child, and one foreign national were killed in a Palestinian shooting attack outside a synagogue on 27 January, the highest death toll in an attack against Israelis since 2005; and three Israelis, including two children, were killed in a ramming attack on 10 February in occupied East Jerusalem. Shooting attacks by Palestinians killed three Israelis, including one dual national, in other parts of the West Bank on 26 and 27 February, and seriously injured three others in Tel Aviv on 9 March, one of whom later succumbed to his wounds.

In separate incidents, two Palestinians were shot and killed by Israeli settlers in the course of carrying out stabbing attacks – on 11 and 21 January. On 11 February, a third Palestinian was shot by an Israeli settler at close range in a confrontation on the edge of a Palestinian village near Salfit. Following the 26 February killing by a Palestinian of two Israelis from the Har Bracha settlement in Huwwara, hundreds of settlers descended on the West Bank town and neighboring villages, carrying out, with ISF present, arson and other attacks. Amid the violence, one Palestinian man was shot and killed; 387 others, including 137 women and 89 children, were injured, of which one was injured with live ammunition and 377 with tear gas, and extensive damage to Palestinian private property was reported.

In the aftermath of fatal incidents in the West Bank, Palestinian armed groups launched seven rockets from Gaza towards Israel, of which one fell short within the Strip, one landed in an open space inside Israel, and five were intercepted by the Israeli air defence system. In retaliation, the Israel Defense Forces conducted two airstrikes against what it said were militant targets in Gaza, with no reported injuries.

Mister President,

Security Council resolution 2334 (2016) calls for the parties to refrain from acts of provocation, incitement and inflammatory rhetoric. Unfortunately, such acts continued and intensified.

Some Fatah officials and social media pages, as well as Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, praised and glorified perpetrators of attacks against Israelis and called for additional attacks. One senior Fatah official called Israel a “fascist enemy that loves to murder and spill blood.”

An Israeli minister conducted an inflammatory visit to Jerusalem’s Holy Sites. Several Members of Knesset praised the attacks by settlers against Palestinians and their property in Huwwara and an Israeli minister said Huwwara should be “wiped out” by Israeli authorities. Another Member of Knesset called Israeli-Arab colleagues “supporters of terrorism” and vowed to ban them from the Knesset; while another said they were inhuman and likened them to livestock.

Mister 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 imperiling the two-State solution.” Notwithstanding some positive steps, negative trends on the ground continued.

On 6 January, the Israeli Government approved a series of measures against the Palestinian Authority, including the transfer of Palestinian Authority tax revenues withheld by Israel of some USD 39 million to families of Israelis killed in Palestinian attacks. This measure was in response to the 30 December adoption of a UN General Assembly resolution requesting an advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) relating to Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territory. On 16 January, 39 Member States signed a joint statement, reconfirming support for the ICJ and noting deep concern regarding the Israeli Government’s punitive measures.

The Israeli Government announced on 29 January and 12 February that, following acts of terrorism by Palestinians against Israelis, it would take steps in response including reinforcing security forces and broadening operations, strengthening and expanding Israeli settlements, and taking punitive measures against the perpetrators and their families.

Following a 1 February announcement by the Israeli Minister of National Security of new restrictions on Palestinian security prisoners, prisoners launched a mass civil disobedience campaign and announced their intention to begin a hunger strike from tomorrow if restrictions are not eased.

On 2 February, Israel’s Finance Minister announced that Israel would double – to approximately USD 30 million – the monthly deductions from tax revenues that is withheld based on its law mandating the withholding of what it says the Palestinian Authority (PA) pays to perpetrators of attacks against Israelis or their families. The PA’s difficult financial situation has resulted in ongoing cuts to public sector salaries. Since early February, Palestinian teachers have conducted strikes demanding salary increases to compensate for the rising cost of living.

On 15 February, the Knesset approved legislation enabling the revocation of citizenship of Israeli citizens or residents imprisoned for terrorism-related offences, who have received money from the Palestinian Authority connected to these offences.

On 23 February, the Israeli Prime Minister's Office announced an agreement between Defense Minister Gallant and the additional Minister in the Defense Ministry Smotrich on the division of responsibilities between them that reportedly grants Finance Minister Smotrich expanded authority over settlement-related activities and civil affairs in the occupied West Bank.

In Gaza, the United Nations continued to deliver vital humanitarian and development assistance to Palestinians in Gaza and remains engaged with all parties to reduce access restrictions to support the Gaza economy and basic service delivery.

The period witnessed a higher flow of people and goods through Erez and Kerem Shalom crossings, with Israeli issued worker and business permits standing today at over 20,500, the highest number in years. As of 9 March, Israeli Authorities enabled 44 previously restricted commodities to enter Gaza without special coordination.

Mister President,

In its resolution 2334 (2016), the Security Council also called upon all States “to distinguish, in their relevant dealings, between the territory of the State of Israel and the territories occupied since 1967.” No such steps were taken during the reporting period.

Resolution 2334 (2016) also called upon “all parties to continue, inter alia, to exert collective efforts to launch credible negotiations.”

On 12 February, the League of Arab States convened the “Jerusalem: Resilience and Development” Conference in Cairo. In the final communiqué, participants called for the establishment of a committee of legal experts tasked with helping give “justice to the Palestinian people” and financing a mechanism to support small and medium-sized enterprises.

On 26 February, senior Jordanian, Egyptian, Israeli, Palestinian and U.S. officials met in Aqaba, Jordan. In a Joint Communique, Israeli and Palestinian participants reaffirmed “their commitment to all previous agreements between them, and to work towards a just and lasting peace.” The parties committed to steps to deescalate the situation on the ground, pause unilateral measures and prevent further violence, including through upholding the status quo at the Holy Sites.

On 20 February, the Security Council adopted a Presidential Statement reaffirming, inter alia, its commitment to the two-State solution, opposition to unilateral actions, including settlement expansion, and condemnation of violence against civilians, including acts of terrorism.

On 4 and 8 March, respectively, five EU countries plus the United Kingdom and all 27 EU Member States issued statements condemning the increasing violence on the ground and calling for de-escalation.

Mister President,

In closing, I would like to share the Secretary-General’s observations concerning the implementation of Security Council Resolution 2334 (2016).

1. I remain deeply troubled by continued Israeli settlement expansion, including the recent authorization of nine illegal outposts and the advancement of over 7,000 settlement housing units and the potential settlement advancement in the E1 area that is crucial to the contiguity of a future Palestinian State. Settlements further entrench the occupation, fuel tensions, and systematically erode the viability of a Palestinian State as part of a two-State solution. Israeli settlements have no legal validity and constitute a flagrant violation of international law and United Nations resolutions. I call on the Government of Israel to cease all settlement activity immediately, in line with its obligations under international law.

2. The demolition and seizure of Palestinian structures, including the significant increase in occupied East Jerusalem, entail numerous human rights violations and raise concerns about the risk of forcible transfer. I call upon the Government of Israel to immediately end this practice in line with its obligations under international humanitarian law.

3. I am deeply disturbed by the intensifying cycle of violence that threatens to plunge Palestinians and Israelis deeper into deadly crisis, while further eroding hope for a political solution. I condemn all acts of violence against civilians, including acts of terror, which have led to an increase in the tragic loss of life. I reiterate that perpetrators must be held accountable and swiftly brought to justice. There can be no justification for terrorism, nor the glorification of such acts. These should be clearly condemned by all. I call on leaders on all sides to help calm the situation, avoid spreading inflammatory rhetoric and speak up against those seeking to incite and escalate the situation.

4. Israeli security forces operations in the occupied West Bank and subsequent clashes have led to a staggering number of Palestinians killed and injured. I reiterate that security forces must use lethal force only when strictly unavoidable to protect life and must promptly and thoroughly investigate all instances of death or injury resulting from its use, holding those responsible accountable.

5. I am particularly appalled that children continue to be killed and injured in large numbers. Children must never be the target of violence, used or put in harm’s way.

6. I remain deeply concerned by the increase in levels of settler-related violence in the occupied West Bank sometimes in proximity of Israeli security forces. I am particularly appalled by the brutal sequence of events in Huwwara. All perpetrators must be held accountable. I urge Israel, as the occupying Power, to abide by its obligations under international law to protect the Palestinian population against all acts or threats of violence.

7. It is critical to de-escalate the situation and move towards re-establishing a political horizon. The statements from the European Member States, the PRST and the Joint Communique from Aqaba are welcome calls for calm. If implemented, the steps outlined in Aqaba could be an important start to reversing negative trends on the ground.

8. I am also particularly concerned about steps, incitement and provocations that could escalate tensions in and around the Holy Sites in Jerusalem. I call upon all to refrain from such actions and to uphold the status quo, in line with the special and historic role of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan as custodian of the holy sites in Jerusalem.

9. In Gaza, a fragile calm continues, but the risk of escalation persists. Despite improvements in access and movement, much more remains to be done to alleviate the dire humanitarian situation and improve the economy, with the ultimate goal of lifting the debilitating closures, in line with UNSCR 1860 (2009).

10. The absence of intra-Palestinian unity continues to undermine Palestinian national aspirations. I call upon all factions to take concrete steps towards reuniting Gaza and the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, under a single, democratic Government. Gaza is, and must remain, an integral part of a future Palestinian State as part of a two-State solution.

11. I am concerned by the critical condition of the Palestinian economy that is impacting the PA’s ability to deliver services and pay public sector salaries. The implications of Israel’s announced increase in monthly deductions from Palestinian clearance revenues add to the already very difficult situation. I urge the parties to work together to find urgent and sustainable solutions. I call on the international community to redouble efforts to strengthen the PA’s fiscal and institutional health.

12. I call on the Member States to support UNRWA with sustainable funding sources to protect the delivery of vital services to millions of Palestine refugees, crucial to stability throughout the region.

13. I remain committed to supporting Palestinians and Israelis to resolve the conflict and end the occupation in line with international law, relevant United Nations resolutions, and bilateral agreements in pursuit of the vision of two States – Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, viable and sovereign Palestine – living side-by-side in peace and security within secure and recognized borders, on the basis of the pre-1967 lines, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States.

14. Lastly, there is no substitute for a legitimate political process that will resolve the core issues driving the conflict. Efforts to manage the conflict are not a substitute for real progress towards resolving it. I urge Israelis, Palestinians, regional States and the broader international community to take steps to re-engage on meaningful negotiations and, ultimately, peace.

Thank you.

The earthquakes that recently struck Turkiye and Syria have caused unspeakable suffering for millions of people. The Syrians affected - in both countries - were already deep into one of the greatest humanitarian crises of this century, after 12 merciless years of war and conflict.

TOR WENNESLAND

SPECIAL COORDINATOR FOR THE MIDDLE EAST PEACE PROCESS

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

20 February 2023

[As delivered]

Madam President,

Members of the Security Council,

We are witnessing a surge in violence, including some of the deadliest incidents in nearly twenty years.

I am concerned that developments on the ground are continuing their negative trajectory, gaining in both pace and intensity.

At the same time, unilateral actions are moving the parties still further apart, exacerbating tensions and driving the conflict.

Immediate efforts are required to reduce tensions. But restoring calm is not, on its own, a recipe for progress.

The UN, along with regional and international partners, have engaged intensively with all parties to de-escalate the situation.

In particular, I appreciate your efforts in the Council to focus attention on the situation here as reflected in the Statement from the President.

I call upon the parties to match security efforts with political steps that can halt the negative slide and restore hope in an end to the conflict and prospects for a viable two-State Solution.

Madam President,

Since I last briefed this Council, we have seen an alarming number of fatalities. Forty Palestinians, including one woman and seven children, have been killed in the occupied West Bank. In the same period, ten Israelis, including one woman, three children and one security personnel, as well as one female foreign national have been killed.

A significant number of Palestinian casualties have occurred in the context of Israeli security forces (ISF) search and arrest operations and clashes with armed Palestinians, including in Area A of the occupied West Bank.

On 26 January, ten Palestinians, including militants and a 61-year-old woman, were killed in the Jenin Refugee Camp. A few days later, on 30 January, ISF killed five armed Palestinians during an arrest operation that led to an exchange of fire in the Aqbat Jabr refugee camp, near Jericho. Those killed were later claimed by Hamas as members of its armed wing.

Two terrorist attacks were carried out in occupied East Jerusalem. Six Israelis, including a child, and one foreign national were killed in a shooting attack perpetrated by a Palestinian outside a synagogue on 27 January; and three Israelis, including two children, were killed in a ramming attack on 10 February.

Two Palestinians were killed by settlers in the occupied West Bank, one while attempting to carry out a stabbing attack on 21 January, and one shot in a confrontation with a group of settlers near a Palestinian village on 11 February.

On 13 February, a Palestinian boy stabbed an ISF personnel in East Jerusalem, during which a second ISF personnel was shot and killed in a friendly-fire incident.

As the Secretary-General noted last month, the current escalation of violence is deeply worrying. There can never be any excuse for acts of terrorism and targeting of civilians, which must be clearly condemned and rejected by all. Celebration or glorification of such attacks is abhorrent and must be unequivocally condemned.

I reiterate that perpetrators of all acts of violence must be held accountable and swiftly brought to justice. Security forces must exercise maximum restraint and use lethal force only when strictly unavoidable to protect life.

I am particularly appalled that children continue to be the victims of violence and involved in violent incidents. Children must never be the targets of violence, used or put in harm’s way.

Madam President,

Amid the mounting violence, there was also a concerning deterioration in relations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.

Following the 26 January Israeli search and arrest operation in Jenin, the Palestinian Authority (PA) announced that security coordination with Israel “no longer exists.”

Following the 27 January terrorist attack in Jerusalem, the Israeli Security Cabinet announced a series of measures, including steps to reinforce security, strengthen Israeli settlements, and punitive measures against the perpetrators of the attacks in Jerusalem and their families.

On 2 February, Israel’s Finance Minister announced an increase in monthly deductions from clearance revenues that Israel collects on behalf of the PA. The deductions – carried out in line with an Israeli law mandating the Government to withhold the equivalent of what it says the PA pays to Palestinian perpetrators of attacks against Israelis or to their families – would double from approximately 15 to 30 million USD per month.

In light of these deductions, the PA said it expected to maintain and potentially increase measures such as paying partial salaries for PA employees, which will severely impact health, education and social support services.

The financial implications of these various factors clearly contribute to undermining the stability of the PA.

Madam President,

Significant decisions were announced by the Israeli Government related to settlement advancements and settlement outposts.

On 12 February, the Israeli Security Cabinet announced that it had decided to authorize nine illegal outposts in the occupied West Bank. It also said that the Civil Administration’s Higher Planning Committee would convene in the coming days to advance housing units in settlements, and that Police and Border Police units in Jerusalem would be reinforced and their operations expanded.

Such outposts increase the settlement footprint and create friction points in the occupied West Bank. The announcement was met with widespread opposition from the Palestinian Authority and members of the international community. Many emphasized that such unilateral moves exacerbate tensions and undermine prospects for a negotiated two-State Solution.

Israeli settlements, including outposts, are illegal under international law and remain a substantial obstacle to peace.

Demolitions and seizures of Palestinian-owned property also remain a serious concern. During the reporting period, Israeli authorities demolished, seized or forced owners to demolish 52 Palestinian-owned structures in Areas B and C and 46 in occupied East Jerusalem, displacing 130 Palestinians, including 68 children. The demolitions were carried out due to the lack of Israeli-issued building permits, which are nearly impossible for Palestinians to obtain.

On 7 February, Israel’s High Court of Justice instructed the Government to submit by 2 April its response to a petition seeking to force implementation of standing demolition orders against the Bedouin village of Khan al Ahmar. The Government had requested a postponement until 1 June.

Also on 7 February, Israeli authorities said they would postpone the demolition of a multi-story structure housing some 100 Palestinians in the East Jerusalem neighborhood of Silwan. The postponement came a day after the police had told residents they would move forward with the demolition.

I am concerned by the significant increase in demolitions, particularly in East Jerusalem. I urge Israel to cease this practice in line with its obligations under international humanitarian law.

Madam President,

Turning to Gaza, the relative calm of the past few months was interrupted by exchanges of fire during the reporting period, once again demonstrating the fragility of the ceasefire.

Palestinian militants in Gaza fired rockets from the Strip towards Israel on six occasions. A total of 11 rockets were fired, of which five were intercepted by the Iron Dome system, two landed in open areas and one fell short in Gaza.

In retaliation, ISF carried out airstrikes on 14 occasions against what it said were Hamas militant targets in the Strip, causing damage.

I reiterate that the indiscriminate launching of rockets towards Israeli population centers violates international law and must stop immediately.

Madam President,

The United Nations continued to deliver vital humanitarian and development assistance to Palestinians in Gaza and remains engaged with all parties to reduce access restrictions to support the Gaza economy and basic service delivery.

Increasing the movement of goods, in particular between Gaza and the West Bank, is vital for the Gaza economy to grow and generate employment opportunities. Such linkages can help sustain a vision for a political solution to Gaza’s challenges.

Madam President,

I welcome the important regional and international diplomatic efforts during the reporting period aimed at avoiding a deterioration on the ground.

In January, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory, meeting with Israeli and Palestinian leaders in an effort to advance concrete steps by both parties “to lower the temperature, to foster greater cooperation, to bolster people’s security.”

The visit coincided with a visit by senior officials from Egypt and Jordan, who met together with President Abbas on 31 January.

Madam President,

Turning to the region, on the Golan, the ceasefire between Israel and Syria has been generally maintained despite continued violations by both parties of the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement of Forces. The Israel Defense Forces on 28 January fired at two individuals from the Bravo side in the vicinity of the ceasefire line, injuring one, who later succumbed to his injuries.

In Lebanon, the situation along the Blue Line remained mostly calm. UNIFIL interposed between the Israel Defense Forces and the Lebanese Armed Forces on 18 and 19 January near Sarda and on 23 and 24 January near Markaba in connection with vegetation clearing works by the Israel Defense Forces.

Madam President,

We have seen ominous signs of what awaits if we fail to address the current instability. Preventing more violence is an urgent priority, which requires not only coordinated security measures, but also considerable political efforts. As such, I urge both sides to avoid unilateral steps that could further inflame the situation.

I reiterate my appeal to the parties to rein in violence and incitement and hold perpetrators accountable. In particular, there is a need to address instability in the West Bank, characterized by spiraling tensions between ISF and armed Palestinian factions and friction points between settlers and Palestinians, which drives more violence and emboldens extremists. Restoring security coordination and ensuring the Palestinian Security Forces can operate effectively is key. At the same time, I urge a halt to all settlement expansion, as well as demolitions and evictions, which fuel these tensions.

With the holy month of Ramadan once again coinciding with the Passover and Easter holidays this year, joint efforts are needed to ensure that this period passes safely and peacefully for all. Provocations, disinformation and efforts by extremists to stoke violence must be addressed swiftly and effectively.

In this context, I reiterate the Secretary-General’s call for all parties to refrain from steps that could escalate tensions in and around the Holy Sites, and for all to uphold the status quo, in line with the special role of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

As we continue to work with the parties and with regional and international partners to calm tensions, we must identify and pursue every opportunity to advance our long-term goal: an end to the occupation and the establishment of two States, living side-by-side in peace and security, on the basis of the 1967 lines, in line with UN resolutions, international law and previous agreements.

Thank you.

As we move into 2023, the Syrian people remain trapped in a profound humanitarian, political, military, security, economic and human rights crisis of great complexity and almost unimaginable scale.

TOR WENNESLAND

SPECIAL COORDINATOR FOR THE MIDDLE EAST PEACE PROCESS

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

18 January 2023

Mister President,

Members of the Security Council,

As a new year begins, a dangerous cycle of violence persists on the ground, amidst increased political tension and a stalled peace process.

The violent trends that dominated the last months of 2022 continue to take a devastating human toll. The violence must stop. Preventing more loss of life and reversing negative trends on the ground must be our collective priority. At the same time, we must not lose sight of the ultimate goal: to end the occupation, resolve the conflict and realize a two-State solution.

Since my last briefing, a new Israeli Government has been sworn in. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Prime Minister Netanyahu, and I look forward to continuing to work closely with the Government of Israel.

Despite the complex challenges, I reiterate the United Nations commitment to supporting Israelis and Palestinians to achieve a sustainable peace. The United Nations and its partners have been, and continue to be, engaged in efforts to improve the situation on the ground.

I urge all sides to reduce tensions and take concrete steps towards establishing a political horizon in line with the priorities I outlined to this Council in November.

Mister President,

In total, between 8 December and 13 January, 14 Palestinians, including five children, were killed and 117 Palestinians, including three women and 18 children, were injured by Israeli security forces during demonstrations, clashes, search-and-arrest operations, attacks and alleged attacks against Israelis, and other incidents. Israeli settlers or other civilians perpetrated 63 attacks against Palestinians resulting in 28 injuries, including six children, and/or damage to Palestinian property.

According to Israeli sources, five Israeli civilians, including three women, and four Israeli security forces personnel were injured by Palestinians in attacks, clashes, the throwing of stones and Molotov cocktails, and other incidents. In total, Palestinians perpetrated some 89 attacks against Israeli civilians resulting in injuries and/or damage to Israeli property, 57 of which were stone-throwing incidents.

A high proportion of Palestinian casualties occurred during Israeli search-and-arrest operations, including in Area A of the occupied West Bank – many of which included armed exchanges. In total, such operations resulted in ten Palestinian fatalities, including three children, and 86 injuries, as well as injury to three members of the Israeli security forces during the reporting period.

Casualties remained concentrated in the northern West Bank, particularly in Jenin Governorate. These included three Palestinians killed on 8 December during a search-and-arrest operation that involved an exchange of fire between Palestinians and Israeli security forces; a 15-year-old girl who was killed during a search-and-arrest operation in Jenin Refugee Camp on 11 December; two Palestinians, including a 17-year-old boy, killed in an exchange of fire with Israeli security forces in the context of a punitive demolition in Kafr Dan village, on 2 January; and, finally, on 12 January, two Palestinians killed during a military operation in Qabatiya, in which armed exchanges were reported.

Violence continued to affect children, with a total of five Palestinian children killed during the reporting period. On 8 December, Israeli security forces shot and killed a 16-year-old boy in Aboud community, near Ramallah, as he and four others were apparently preparing to throw stones and paint at Israeli vehicles. On 3 January, a 15-year-old boy was killed by Israeli security forces in ad-Duheisha Refugee Camp in Bethlehem; Palestinians threw stones and Molotov cocktails towards Israeli security forces, and the boy was reportedly lighting a Molotov Cocktail at the time he was shot. On 5 January, Israeli security forces shot and killed a 16-year-old Palestinian during an arrest operation in Balata Refugee Camp in Nablus. The boy was apparently caught in an armed exchange between Israeli security forces and armed Palestinians.

Settler-related violence also continued during the reporting period.

On 16 December, a 16-year-old Palestinian boy was assaulted and injured when a group of settlers, reportedly from Yitzhar settlement, entered Madama village near Nablus and attacked Palestinian houses and vehicles with stones.

On 11 January, an 18-year-old Palestinian stabbed and injured an Israeli civilian near the settlement outpost of Havat Yehuda, in the South Hebron Hills. The Palestinian was subsequently shot and killed by an armed Israeli.

On 13 January, a group of Israeli settlers attacked a group of Palestinians and foreign nationals who were hiking near Jericho, according to eyewitness accounts and video footage from the incident. Two women were reportedly injured.

Mister President,

I reiterate that perpetrators of all acts of violence must be held accountable and swiftly brought to justice.

Security forces must exercise maximum restraint and use lethal force only when strictly unavoidable in order to protect life.

I am particularly appalled that children continue to be the victims of violence. Children must never be the targets of violence or put in harm’s way.

Mister President,

Turning to settlement-related developments, on 2 January, the Israeli Government informed the High Court of Justice that it intends to legalize – under Israeli law – the outpost of Homesh by repealing part of the 2005 Disengagement Law. Built on private Palestinian land, the outpost consists of a religious school and was previously a settlement that was demolished under the 2005 law. On the same day, the Court issued a decision giving the State 90 days to explain why the outpost should not be evacuated and the Palestinian rights holders not allowed to exercise their rights.

I reiterate that all settlements are illegal under international law and remain a substantial obstacle to peace.

Demolitions and seizures of Palestinian-owned property remain a serious concern. During the reporting period, Israeli authorities demolished, seized or forced owners to demolish 126 Palestinian-owned structures in Area C and seven in occupied East Jerusalem, displacing 127 Palestinians, including 60 children. The demolitions were carried out due to the lack of Israeli-issued building permits, which are nearly impossible for Palestinians to obtain.

We have also seen additional concerning developments in Jerusalem.

On 27 December, Israeli settlers accompanied by Israeli security forces forcibly took control of a parcel of agricultural land that a Palestinian family has leased from the Greek Orthodox Church since 1931 in the Silwan area of occupied East Jerusalem. Israeli forces arrested at least five Palestinians protesting the takeover. The settlers maintain that they purchased the land from the Greek Orthodox Church, a deal the church rejected as fraudulent.

On 1 January, in a despicable act, some 30 gravestones were desecrated at the Protestant Cemetery on Mt. Zion in Jerusalem. Jerusalem’s Anglican Archbishop called it a “clear hate crime,” while Israel's Foreign Ministry called it “an affront to religion." On 6 January, two Israelis, aged 14 and 18, were arrested for the act, and, according to a statement issued by Israeli Police following an investigation, a formal indictment is expected.

As outlined during our 5 January Council briefing, on 3 January, Israel’s new Minister of National Security conducted a visit to the Holy Sites in Jerusalem. The visit was condemned by the Palestinian Authority and Jordanian officials, among others, who said it was a provocation and violation of the status quo. Following the visit, senior Israeli officials, including the Prime Minister’s Office, reaffirmed that the Government is committed to upholding the status quo and stated that the visit did not represent a deviation from it.

I reiterate the Secretary-General’s call for all parties to refrain from steps that could escalate tensions in and around the Holy Sites, and for all to uphold the status quo, in line with the special role of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

Mister President,

On 30 December 2022, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution entitled “Israeli practices affecting the human rights of the Palestinian people in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem” containing a request to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for an advisory opinion relating to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territory.

In response, on 6 January, the Israeli security cabinet approved a series of measures against the Palestinian Authority, including the transfer of some USD 39 million in withheld tax revenues that Israel collects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority to families of Israelis killed in Palestinian attacks. On 8 January, the Israeli Finance Minister instructed the Tax Authority to implement the withholding of Palestinian tax funds to pay these damages. I am seriously concerned about the impact of such measures on the PA’s financial situation.

Also on 8 January, Israel’s National Security Minister issued a directive to the Israeli police to increase enforcement of the removal of Palestinian flags from public spaces in Israel and occupied East Jerusalem.

On 16 January, a statement was issued with 39 Member States as signatories, reconfirming support for the ICJ, international law and multilateralism and noting deep concern regarding the Israeli Government’s decision to impose punitive measures following the request by the General Assembly to the ICJ for an advisory opinion.

Mister President,

Turning to the Gaza Strip, the United Nations continued to deliver vital humanitarian and development assistance. I also continue to engage in diplomatic efforts to further ease restrictions on the movement of people and goods into and out of the Strip.

Despite these efforts, the socio-economic situation remains a grave concern, with access restrictions continuing to impact the delivery of assistance. Currently, some 300 staff of the UN and implementing partners have either been denied or not yet received a response to their permit applications.

The reporting period witnessed an increase of nearly 500 economic needs permits – to above 16,000 – while the number of trader and businessmen permits remained largely consistent.

On 30 December, Israel resumed the exit of fish from Gaza to the West Bank. I welcome the resolution of the issue and the lifting of the exit ban that had been in place since 7 November.

While continued progress in these areas is vital, humanitarian or economic support alone will resolve neither the situation in Gaza nor the broader conflict. Political solutions are required – there are no quick fixes.

The ultimate goal remains to fully lift the closures in line with Security Council resolution 1860 (2009) and reunite Gaza and the occupied West Bank under a single, legitimate Palestinian national authority, as an integral part of a two-State solution.

Mister President,

Turning briefly to the region, in the Golan, the ceasefire between Israel and Syria was generally maintained despite continued violations by both parties of the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement of Forces. It remains important for the parties to respect their obligations under the terms of the Agreement and prevent risks of escalation.

Lebanon remains without a president, and with a caretaker Government. Meanwhile, the situation along the Blue Line remains calm, without major incidents. The UN is following up with Lebanese authorities regarding the incident in December which resulted in the death of one UNIFIL peacekeeper and injuries to three others.

On 9-10 January, senior officials from Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States gathered in Abu Dhabi for the inaugural meeting of the Negev Forum Working Groups. During the gathering, the Negev Forum Regional Cooperation Framework was released, in which participants affirmed, inter alia, that the regional relationships "can be harnessed to create momentum in Israeli-Palestinian relations, towards a negotiated resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict."

Mister President,

At the end, today Israelis and Palestinians remain on a collision course amid escalating political and inflammatory rhetoric as well as heightened violence in the West Bank – both with potentially grave consequences.

Courageous political leadership is urgently required to generate the momentum necessary to transform the current dynamic. It is imperative that both sides refrain from provocations and unilateral steps – including at the Holy Sites in Jerusalem – that undermine stability and the ability to achieve a negotiated peace.

I reiterate my call from November for immediate concrete steps toward reversing negative trends on the ground, strengthening the Palestinian Authority, and improving access and movement for Palestinians, while ensuring the necessary space for Palestinian economic activity.

Absent a collective effort by all, with strong support from the international community, spoilers and extremists will continue to pour more fuel on the fire and we will move still further from a peaceful resolution of the conflict.

The United Nations remains committed to supporting an end to the occupation and establishing a two-State solution, with an independent and sovereign Palestinian State based on the 1967 lines, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States in line with UN resolutions, international law and bilateral agreements.

I thank you, Mr. President.

KHALED KHIARI

ASSISTANT SECRETARY-GENERAL

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

5 January 2023

Mister President,

Thank you for inviting me to address the Council on recent developments in occupied East Jerusalem. At the outset, please allow me this opportunity to welcome Ecuador, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, and Switzerland as the new elected members of the Security Council.

Mister President,

I would like to note that Special Coordinator Wennesland will provide his regular and full briefing on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, on the 18^th of January.

We are, however, concerned about the events of this past week in Jerusalem and the broader ongoing tensions and violence in the occupied West Bank.

On 3 January, Israel’s new Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir conducted a visit, accompanied by heavy security detail, to the Holy Sites in Jerusalem. The visit was the first to the site by an Israeli minister since 2017.

While the visit was not accompanied or followed by violence, it is seen as particularly inflammatory given Mr. Ben Gvir’s past advocacy for changes to the status quo.

The visit was sharply condemned by the Palestinian Authority, many others across the region and the international community as a provocation that risked sparking further bloodshed. Many also warned against any changes to the status quo at the Holy Sites.

Following the visit, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office and other senior Israeli officials emphasized that the Government is committed to upholding the status quo and that the visit did not represent a deviation from it.

Mister President,

As we have seen numerous times in the past, the situation at Jerusalem’s Holy Sites is deeply fragile, and any incident or tension there can spill over and cause violence throughout the Occupied Palestinian Territory, in Israel and elsewhere in the region.

With that reality in mind, I reiterate the Secretary-General’s call for all parties to refrain from steps that could escalate tensions in and around the Holy Sites, and for all to uphold the status quo, in line with the special role of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

Over the past several days, the United Nations has remained in close contact with relevant parties to de-escalate the situation, and these engagements will continue in the coming days and weeks.

At this sensitive moment, all efforts to lower tensions should be encouraged, while provocations, inflammatory steps, unilateral actions and threats of violence must be categorically rejected.

Leaders on all sides have a responsibility to lower the flames and create the conditions for calm.

The United Nations remains ready to assist and support these efforts.

Thank you, Mr. President.