In a presidential statement, released during a session dedicated to the situation in the Middle East, said body expressed its firm opposition to any unilateral measure that prevents peace, including the construction and expansion of Israel, the confiscation of land and the legalization of posts outpost of settlements, and the displacement of civilians.
For his part, the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland, recalled that Israeli settlements, including outposts, are illegal under international law and remain a substantial obstacle to peace.
“These outposts increase the spread of settlements and create friction points in the occupied West Bank,” he said.
In addition to revealing his concern about the significant increase in demolitions, especially in East Jerusalem, he called on Israel to stop these practices in accordance with its obligations in this regard.
He also expressed that an upsurge in violence is taking place between Israel and Palestine, including some of the deadliest incidents in almost 20 years, and expressed concern that events on the ground could continue on a negative trajectory, and gain in rhythm and intensity.
‘Unilateral actions are further alienating the parties, exacerbating tensions and fueling conflict. Immediate efforts are required to reduce the tension,’ he said.
Meanwhile, the deputy commissioner general of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, Leni Stenseth, described the situation for Palestinian refugees in the region as desperate.
She explained that the multiple conflicts in crisis, the endless occupation, the socio-economic ramifications of the Covid-19 pandemic and the increase in global food prices have pushed increasing numbers of Palestinian refugees into poverty.
Urban spaces in and around densely populated refugee camps must not be used for confrontations with automatic weapons and tear gas. Children, including refugees, are far from immune to the spiral of violence that has created an explosive and dangerous environment, she said.
According to her, she said, the number of poor Palestinian refugees exceeds 80 percent, and she described the suffering of that people after years of blockade and conflict in Gaza as a human tragedy that is difficult to describe.
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