The UN Security Council today held an open debate on the situation in the Middle East. In New York, Switzerland continued to express its alarm at the situation in the entire occupied Palestinian territory and on both sides of the Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon. The civilian population is paying the highest price for the violations of international law committed by all sides and the lack of implementation of the relevant four Security Council resolutions. ‘We must step up our efforts to break the spiral of violence and return to the foundations of humanity that have been trampled on for far too long in this conflict,’ emphasised Switzerland's MENA Special Envoy in New York.
Against this backdrop, an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, as called for in the Security Council resolutions, is essential. In addition, all parties must respect international law, in particular international humanitarian law and human rights. Accordingly, the civilian population and civilian objects such as homes, schools and hospitals must not be attacked. Humanitarian aid must also be able to reach Gaza via all border crossings and be distributed safely, quickly and unhindered throughout the Gaza Strip. Switzerland also called for the immediate and unconditional release of all remaining hostages.
The Swiss special envoy emphasised in the Security Council that international law must also be respected in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. This also applies with regard to Israel's settlement policy. Accordingly, Switzerland recalled that settlements are illegal under international law and expressed concern about the latest Israeli announcements to build new settlement units, among other things.
Only a political solution can lead to lasting peace. This should be based on the two-state solution, in which two democratic states, Israel and Palestine, exist side by side within secure and recognised borders.
