Statement by the Deputy Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador João Genésio de Almeida Filho, on the Middle East - Including the Palestinian Question - May 24th, 2023

Madam President,

Let me start by thanking Mr. Tor Wennesland for his informative breifing and also Mrs. Tania Hary for her sobering intervention. 

Brazil remains deeply concerned about the situation in Israel and Palestine. The loss of lives, including children, as a result of Israeli air strikes as well as the indiscriminate firing of rockets against Israeli territory during another eventful month is deeply regrettable. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones.

Brazil commends Egypt for its central role in facilitating the cessation of hostilities and expresses gratitude to all parties which have put efforts into the achievement of the ceasefire. We call on all parties to respect the agreement and to intensify their efforts to exercise restraint.

Regrettably, not long after the ceasefire announcement, distressing incidents occurred during the annual flag march in Jerusalem's Old City. The participation of Israeli high ranking authorities in the March as well as in a visit to Haram-El-Sharif does not contribute to stabilizing the situation and bringing calm to the region. As Mr. Wennesland noted, and we agree, leaders bear the responsibility to take a stand against extremism and to condemn acts of violence and incitement unequivocally.

The unjustifiable attacks on journalists during the flag march are also deeply concerning. During conflict, journalists and media workers, as civilians, are protected by international humanitarian law. They play an invaluable role by ensuring the free flow of information.

Madam President,

Brazil reaffirms its long-standing commitment to the two-State solution, with Palestine and Israel living together in peace and security within mutually agreed and internationally recognized borders.

Putting an end to this protracted conflict requires confronting some challenging outstanding issues. The expansion of Israeli settlements, in flagrant violation of international law, is one such issue. Alongside sparking violence and hatred, settlement activities obstruct the path to peace by undermining the feasibility of a contiguous Palestinian state. Recent reports about the intention to further expand israeli settlements in the west bank in large numbers are alarming.

Brazil also calls Israel to stop the continued demolitions and seizures of Palestinian structures, as well as the displacement of Palestinian families. We strongly condemn the demolition of an EU-funded school in Area C on May 7. It is worth recalling, in this regard, Resolution 2601 (2021), which calls for safeguarding the right to education and emphasizes the necessity of uninterrupted educational services in conflict situations.

The matter is also related to the critical financial situation faced by UNRWA. Ensuring adequate funding and support for the Agency is paramount to sustain essential services to the Palestinian people, including education programs, which are crucial for offering Palestinian children quality education and fostering hope for a better future. UNRWA plays an indispensable role in maintaining stability in the Middle East, particularly in sustaining the livelihood of Gaza residents. In offering essential services, UNRWA not only improves their quality of life but also promotes social stability, which is crucial for peacebuilding efforts in the region.

Madam President,

Since the beginning of the year, parties have made commitments to desist from provocative unilateral actions and to pursue further actions in support of de-escalation. Brazil hopes they work to translate promises into responsible and constructive policies and initiatives aimed at improving the situation on the ground. This would be an important first step to foster an environment conducive to dialogue, aiming at a just and comprehensive solution for the conflict.

In conclusion, I would like to express Brazil's appreciation for the work of the Special Coordinator, Mr. Wennesland. We value his detailed briefings to the Council and his relentless efforts to ease tensions on the ground.

Brazil agrees with his overall assessment - merely managing this conflict indefinitely is unsustainable. This Council must seriously reflect on its role in breaking these vicious cycles of violence and revitalizing the stalled peace process.

And I thank you.