I thank Deputy Special Coordinator Alakbarov, ASG Msuya, Ms Ashing and Ms Gritzewsky for your sobering and powerful briefings today, which underline one single truth it is time for this terrible conflict to end.
I will make three points, President.
First, the IPC’s confirmation of famine in Gaza City marks the first officially recorded famine in modern history in the Middle East.
It is entirely man-made and, as my Foreign Secretary has said, it is a moral outrage.
Over 100 children in Gaza have died of malnutrition, while food is sitting at Gaza’s borders.
I have two clear messages for Israel immediately lift restrictions and allow food, medical supplies and fuel to reach those in desperate need, in line with International humanitarian law.
And allow UN and international NGOs to carry out their life-saving work without obstruction.
It is also vital that international humanitarian law is upheld.
Israel’s attack on Nasser hospital this weekend, killing civilians, health workers and journalists, is appalling.
We note the ongoing inquiry into this attack.
And it is imperative that there are urgent and transparent investigations, which hold those responsible to account, in a meaningful way.
Second, Ms Gritzewsky provided a truly harrowing account today of the cruelty she experienced at the hands of Hamas terrorists.
The United Kingdom unequivocally condemns conflict-related sexual violence wherever it occurs, and we continue to call for justice for survivors of these abhorrent crimes.
Her briefing also reminded us of the agony of the hostages still held in Gaza, including her partner Matan Zangauker.
The United Kingdom has been clear that Hamas must immediately release all the hostages taken on 7 October and lay down their weapons.
And I recall that the Security Council has called for the unconditional and immediate release of the hostages in all four of our resolutions since 7 October.
But I reiterate again today that Hamas must be held accountable for their despicable actions and can have no future in the governance of Gaza.
A ceasefire remains the best way to secure the release of all the remaining hostages.
The Israeli Government’s plan to expand military operations in Gaza will only put them in further danger.
We condemn this decision and urge Israel to change course.
Third, Israel’s decision to approve plans for settlement construction in the E1 area in the West Bank, if implemented, would be a flagrant breach of international law.
It will take us further away from peace.
Israel must retract these plans.
The Two-State Solution Conference last month demonstrated the strength of international support for a brighter future for the region.
The United Kingdom opposes any actions which undermine the viability of the Two-State Solution and the long-term goal of Israelis and Palestinians living side by side in peace and security.
President, now is the moment for the parties to redouble their efforts to secure an immediate ceasefire.
This is the path to end the suffering in Gaza, secure the release of the hostages and deliver a framework for lasting peace in the region.
