New york: The UN Security Council on Wednesday discussed the Question of Palestine during its monthly session, hearing a briefing from the Deputy UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Ramiz Alakbarov. Alakbarov noted that the Gaza Strip is currently at a "potential turning point" that could pave the way for a better future, while also highlighting the presence of "great opportunities and serious risks."
According to Jordan News Agency, Alakbarov had recently returned from Cairo, where he engaged with the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza. The discussions focused on how the United Nations can effectively support the committee's efforts in delivering essential public services, facilitating humanitarian aid, and laying the groundwork for reconstruction in Gaza, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2803. He emphasized the UN's commitment to assisting the committee and Palestinians in Gaza, stressing the importance of implementing the next phase of the comprehensive plan with sincerity.
Addressing the occupied West Bank, Alakbarov warned of escalating developments, including ongoing violence, extensive Israeli military operations, settlement expansion, settler violence, demolitions, and mass arrests. He further elaborated that Israeli government policies have contributed to several adverse trends, such as rapid settlement expansion and infrastructure development, the establishment and legalization of outposts, widespread demolition and displacement, and increased restrictions on movement and access. Additionally, he highlighted the expansion of municipal boundaries and the declaration of so-called "state lands" as concerning developments.