Statement of the Permanent Representative, Ambassador Sérgio França Danese, on the Special Report of the Security Council on the Use of the Veto (A/78/691) - January 9th, 2024

Mr. President,

In the last days of its 2022-2023 mandate as an elected member of the Security Council, Brazil voted in favor of both resolution 2720 and the amendment proposed by the Russian Federation.

We regret that there is still no consensus among Council members, despite repeated calls by the majority of the international community, including this General Assembly, for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and cessation of hostilities in the conflict in Gaza.

The dire situation in Gaza worsens every day and the remaining hostages have not been released.

The protection of civilians in conflict is an obligation of all parties involved and should be respected at all times. No one is allowed to violate the strict norms of International Humanitarian Law.

Following the adoption of resolution 2720, Brazil welcomes the appointment by the Secretary-General of Ms Sigrid Kaag as the Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza. We look forward to her contributions to alleviating the unbearable suffering of Palestinians in Gaza. We appreciate the efforts of all those who facilitate the use of available crossings by United Nations humanitarian agencies and their implementing partners. We look forward to seeing UN Security Council resolutions implemented and respected by all.

Throughout Brazil’s last tenure on the Council, and particularly in the aftermath of the 7 October terrorist attacks against Israel that triggered this new phase in the 75-year-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict, we have been unwavering in our support for peace and a sustainable future for both Palestinians and Israelis.

It is essential that the Security Council remains engaged in seeking an end to hostilities and in paving the way for renewed and effective peace talks. Brazil encourages Council members to raise their level of ambition and never give up in the face of difficulties in providing a stronger response to the crisis.

As we have always done and as we insisted in the Council, we will continue to reiterate our consistent and firm commitment to a two-state solution for the Palestinian question, with a viable State of Palestine living side by side with Israel in peace and security, within mutually agreed and internationally recognized borders.

Thank you.