Statement by the Deputy Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador João Genésio de Almeida Filho, on the Middle East Peace Process - February 20th, 2023

Brazil has been following closely and with great concern the fast-forwarding events in Israel and Palestine, which have been aggravating tensions, especially in the West Bank and Jerusalem, and taking us to a very dangerous point. As the level of violence increases, so does the number of civilian casualties, including children, as well as the suffering and trauma that so many years of conflict have caused.

The fragility of the situation highlights the urgency of a renewed commitment to resolving this long-lasting conflict. We must act to prevent the conflict from spilling out of control, which can end up affecting the entire region. In this sense, as Mr. Wennesland has frequently reiterated, addressing the root causes of the current tensions is key.

The continuous expansion of the Israeli settlements is a well-known source of tensions and violence. In this regard, Brazil and other countries of our region have publicly stated deep concern about the recent decision of the government of Israel to legalize nine “outposts” and build ten thousand houses in existing settlements in the West Bank. These unilateral measures constitute serious violations of international law, including Resolution 2334 (2016), the latest adopted by this Council.

Besides constituting flagrant violations of United Nations resolutions and international law, settlements undermine the prospects of achieving the desired outcome of a two-state solution by systematically eroding the possibility of establishing a contiguous, independent, viable and sovereign Palestinian state.

We therefore reiterate the provisions of Resolution 2334 (2016), which clearly state that the establishment by Israel of settlements in the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem, has no legal validity for the aforementioned reasons and should cease immediately.

Madam President,

Brazil urges all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid provocations and unilateral actions, including heated rhetoric, which could further aggravate tensions.

It should not be necessary, at this point, to remind them of their obligations under international humanitarian law, including Security Council resolutions approved throughout the years. And that is valid to the question of settlements but also to other violations of international law that are contributing to the current crisis.

Civilians must be protected in times of conflict. The distinction of civilians and combatants is at the core of international humanitarian law. All parties must work immediately to uphold this crucial IHL foundational principle to reverse this terrible trend of violence. Cooperation aiming at the security of civilians, besides preventing the loss of lives, could serve as an important confidence building measure.

Equally concerning are the recent attacks on religious sites, such as the February 2 vandalism of the Flagellation Chapel in Jerusalem. We urge all political leaders and authorities to promote a culture of peaceful coexistence and religious freedom.

Brazil also condemns all actions linked to the idea of changing the historic status quo of the holy sites in Jerusalém. We should not undermine, in this regard, the crucial custodian role of the Kingdom of Jordan in preserving peace at the holy sites over the years.

Peace also depends, and we emphasize, on the commitment to the promotion of human rights for all. Poverty, food insecurity, hopelessness and a general sense of injustice create the perfect breeding ground for extremist forces to flourish.

In this sense, we stress the need for improving the living conditions of the Palestinian people by working to strengthen the Palestinian economy and to address the challenge of governance. The situation in Gaza is particularly concerning, as the blockade continues to hinder development efforts.

Brazil remains concerned with the chronic financial challenges faced by UNRWA which has been providing much-needed humanitarian assistance to Palestinian refugees. We must not undermine the role played by UNRWA, throughout the years, to maintain stability on the ground.

Madam President,

Brazil reaffirms its longstanding commitment to the two-state solution, with Palestine and Israel living side by side in peace and security within mutually agreed and internationally recognized borders. We also remain committed to the idea of peace, to the achievement, without delay, of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East on the basis of international law and relevant United Nations resolutions. We stand ready, therefore, to constructively engage in initiatives aiming at a more proactive contribution by this Council to the cause of peace.

Madam President,

In the view of the above, Brazil expresses its full support to the statement of the presidency in this session.

Thank you.