Deputy Special Coordinator Ramiz Alakbarov presented the latest quarterly report of the UN Secretary-General on the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2334 to the Council’s Member States during the meeting on the situation in the Middle East.
Resolution 2334 calls for an end to Israeli settlement activity in the occupied territories and for the prevention of violence against civilians.
According to the report, Israeli authorities advanced or approved more than 6,310 housing units in the West Bank, and settlement advancement indicators reached their highest levels since 2017.
Despite the ceasefire, the report documents 1,938 Palestinian fatalities resulting from Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) operations during the reporting period. This brings the total death toll since October 7, 2023, to over 70,000. The Secretary-General calls on the parties to “fully implement the terms of the ceasefire, exercise maximum restraint, and comply with international law.”
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains critical. The report describes it as “catastrophic,” noting widespread destruction of infrastructure, displacement, and collapse of essential services. According to OCHA, 100,000 tons of aid were collected over two months—a 67 percent increase—but access to several areas remains limited. Due to “severe restrictions,” fewer than 50,000 tents were brought in, yet 1.28 million people need shelter.
Mr. Alakbarov called on Israel and Hamas to fully implement the ceasefire, demonstrate the highest level of restraint possible, and comply with international law and relevant UN resolutions. He stressed that the ceasefire must be consolidated to enable recovery and reconstruction in Gaza. He noted that the United Nations stands ready to support these efforts. Mr. Alakbarov also condemned the increased settler violence across the West Bank, which has intensified during the olive harvest season.
In her statement, Greece’s permanent representative and ambassador, Ag. Balta denounced attacks against Jewish communities worldwide, emphasizing that Greece unequivocally condemns all forms of antisemitism, as well as hatred, intolerance, racism, and xenophobia, including anti-Muslim sentiment.
Referring to Resolution 2803, Balta noted that it is a “critical step toward promoting peace and stability” because it “provides new momentum to efforts for the definitive disarmament of Hamas.” She also emphasized that the 20-Point Plan sets the framework for restoring Palestinian self-determination and called on all parties to adhere to its provisions in good faith.
Regarding Resolution 2334, Ambassador Balta pointed out that policies that violate it lead to increased tensions and destabilization in the West Bank and constitute a serious obstacle to the creation of a sovereign and viable Palestinian state.
She expressed deep concern over the sharp increase in settler violence, including attacks against Christian communities. She underscored the need to protect the Palestinian population and Christian communities and preserve the status quo in the holy places.
Ms. Balta emphasized that the economic viability of the West Bank is a prerequisite for peace. Regarding the role of UNRWA, she reiterated Greece’s “full support” for its work, particularly in view of the winter season, and stated that it remains “central.”
She added that Greece remains “steadfast in its belief that the two-state solution is the only viable path” and called on all parties “to demonstrate the necessary political courage” to advance the 20-Point Plan.
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou