Statement by the Permanent Representative Ambassador Ronaldo Costa Filho in the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question - June 27th 2022

June 27th 2022

Mister President,

I would like to thank Special Coordinator Tor Wennesland for his timely update to this Council.

Brazil remains concerned about the continuous incidents of violence involving Israelis and Palestinians. The mounting tension that was witnessed this past month, with the string of attacks against Israeli citizens and military raids in Palestinian territories, has come to a head, with rocket fire targeting Israeli territory. We deplore any terrorist attack and thoroughly condemn the launching of rockets that put civilians in harm's way.

Brazil urges the parties to refrain from any acts that could further incite violence and tensions in the region. That includes the use of dangerous and hateful rhetoric, as well as unilateral actions that can jeopardize a negotiated two-state solution. De-escalating the situation on the ground and rebuilding trust and confidence are urgent measures needed to rekindle the peace process.

Mr. President,

Brazil is also concerned about the Palestinian Authority’s financial crisis. A broad political process cannot thrive in the absence of appropriate economic conditions. In this regard, coordinated international assistance to provide the Palestinian Authority with fiscal footing must be an integral part of the efforts for peace and stability. It is equally important to address the structural impediments imposed on the Palestinian economy, which needs support to strengthen its industrial and agriculture production.

Still with regard to financial resources, we lament the chronic challenges faced by UNRWA. Lacking the means to mobilize the necessary funds, it falls short of providing the protection and assistance the UN mandates. As the global scenario now demonstrates, the insufficiency of economic aid for the region is less a matter of financial availability than it is of political priority. Despite budget constraints at the national level, Brazil has made efforts to respond to UNRWA’s appeals for funding. Last week, we were pleased to announce an additional financial contribution. We support the renewal of UNRWA`s mandate at the next general assembly.

On a more positive note, Brazil praises concrete initiatives aiming to provide economic opportunities for Palestinian workers in Israel. We welcome the resumption of the policy to set quotas for Palestinians from Gaza and expect to see more initiatives in this regard, given their longer-term benefits for economic integration.

Concerning the electoral scenario in Palestine, Brazil commends Palestine’s Central Election Commission for successfully concluding the voting processes for local councils. We continue to consider that presidential and legislative elections would further contribute to political stability in the region. Brazil encourages intra-Palestinian reconciliation, a crucial step to resume a genuine dialogue in the peace process. Full and equal participation of women should be sought.

Mr. President,

There is no alternative to a genuine commitment to a two-state solution, as Mr. Wennesman reminded us today. We expect that a reconciled Palestinian government and the incoming Israeli leadership renew their efforts towards a legitimate political process and show openness and flexibility in this endeavor.

Thank you.