Discurso do Representante Permanente, Embaixador Sérgio França Danese, em "briefing" do Conselho de Segurança sobre a situação no Oriente Médio - 21 de agosto de 2023 (texto em inglês)

Madam President.

I thank Mr. Tor Wennesland, Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, for his briefing.

As described by previous speakers, the security situation in Israel and Palestine has deteriorated markedly since the beginning of the year, with tensions escalating to alarming levels. Tragically, the civilian population continues to suffer the most, withstanding the worst of the conflict and paying an unacceptably heavy toll.

Brazil condemns all acts of violence against civilians, whether Israeli or Palestinian, and particularly deplore the disproportionate use of force. Terrorism, in any form or manifestation, is also unacceptable and we deeply condemn and reject it.

The first step here is clear: all parties must exercise maximum restraint and uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure. The continued non-observance of these obligations is cause for profound concern and keeps fueling the conflict.

Escalating Israeli military actions have heightened tensions and left a trail of suffering and destruction in the West Bank. The frequent violent raids, such as those recently carried out in the city of Jericho and the Tulkarem refugee camp, are deeply concerning. An ever-present risk looms that events in the West Bank may spill into Gaza, where the humanitarian situation continues to worsen, exacerbated by the ongoing blockade.

The importance of advancing confidence-building measures cannot be overstated. Regrettably, the commitments made in Aqaba and Sharm El Sheikh to refrain from provocative unilateral actions and to pursue de-escalation measures remain unfulfilled.

The expansion of settlements, especially following recent decisions by the Israeli government, obstructs peace, fuels violence, and aggravates humanitarian needs. Settler-violence-based displacement has been on the rise, as reported by OCHA.

Israeli settlements are illegal under international law, as outlined in Resolution 2334 (2016), which condemns all measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character, and status of the Palestinian Territory. What we witness is a complete disregard for the Council's resolutions - for the UN Charter. Brazil calls upon the government of Israel to cease all settlement activities and concentrate in building a lasting peace in the region, strongly based on international law.

On the other hand, intra-Palestinian reconciliation, coupled with the improvement of living conditions inthe West Bank and Gaza, are crucial on the path toward peace. Success in this endeavor is tied to sustainable economic growth. We must recognize the significant role that poverty, food insecurity, and widespread despair play in creating fertile ground for extremist forces. Addressing these outstanding issues is essential.

The low funding levels to UN appeals underscore a waning of international humanitarian assistance capacity, even amidst severe crises on multiple fronts. Yet, the humanitarian situation of Palestinian refugees remains critical. Restoring UNRWA's capabilities is imperative, enabling it to continue its indispensable work.

At the end, though, only a two-State solution based on international law, and supported by the whole international community, will grant the peace and progress that both Israelis and Palestinians deserve, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security, within mutually agreed and internationally recognized borders. It is about time we should accomplish this and move on in other pressing and ever growing challenges.

But in the current volatile scenario, it is paramount to exercise restraint and avoid any actions that might escalate tensions or provoke further violence. Despite the formidable challenges, we must redouble our efforts to advance the cause of peace and reconciliation.

Thank you.