Statement by the Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Sérgio França Danese, on the Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question - December 8th, 2023

Mr. President,

Brazil voted in favour of the draft resolution proposed by the United Arab Emirates on behalf of the Group of Arab States (S/2023/970), which we also co-sponsored. We regret it did not get the necessary approval, despite the 13 votes in its favour.

The unprecedented level of the humanitarian tragedy unfolding in Gaza requires urgent action. It continues to be our responsibility to prevent it. That should have been done now, by the Council demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, the easing of humanitarian aid and the immediate and unconditional release of all the hostages. Without that, the Security Council risks complicity in allowing further human loss. Sooner or later, Council members must shoulder their responsibility and do what is right. That is not just Brazil’s call — those are the demands of public conscience, the dictates of humanity. The price of inaction is unbearably high politically, morally and legally. We might be irreparably harming the prospect of a two-State solution.

Brazil will continue to work with Council members with a view to re-establishing the conditions for humanitarian action to resume in Gaza. We must also be consequential in our defence of international law, particularly international humanitarian law, with meaningful action. There is a pressing need to re-establish Council authority, which should be guided by our collective responsibility to ensure peace and security without making exceptions. Now that we have failed once again, maybe we could try a more effective negotiating process, which will put the full responsibility of a draft resolution on all Member States.

Thank you.