United Nations: Explanation of Vote at the Emergency Special Session on Israel Gaza UNRWA operations resolution; Gaza ceasefire resolution

Mr President,

New Zealand welcomes the adoption of today's resolutions, and voted in support of the resolutions after careful consideration.

The situation in Gaza remains untenable. An immediate ceasefire is urgently needed. And the remaining hostages must be unconditionally released.

Palestinian civilians continue to pay the price of the conflict between Israel and Hamas. They deserve an immediate ceasefire, unimpeded access to humanitarian aid, and an end to the spiralling tensions.

New Zealand has been clear from the outset that the protection of civilians is paramount and a requirement of international law.

New Zealand welcomes international efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and calls on the parties to implement the provisions of Security Council resolution 2735 regarding an immediate ceasefire.

A negotiated political solution is needed to achieve lasting peace and security for Israel and Palestine. Diplomacy can work where there is political will.

The UNRWA resolution reflects a view overwhelmingly shared by the international community that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is catastrophic and that nothing should stand in the way of food, medical assistance, and shelter for those in need. This resolution also calls for parties to uphold UN mandates as set by UN member states.

The role of UNRWA was defined and created by us, as UN member states. New Zealand notes that UNRWA's mandate has been continually extended since 1949.

UNRWA's mandate to ensure the humanitarian and development needs of almost six million Palestinian refugees must be respected.

The UN system must be allowed to execute the role the member states have given it.

There is also work to be done on the part of UNRWA to strengthen its adherence to UN values and humanitarian principles, including neutrality.

New Zealand is following closely UNRWA's implementation of Catherine Colonna's review recommendations and looks forward to the full implementation of those recommendations.

New Zealand has made clear to UNRWA our expectations of the organisation. We have also made clear our expectations of the parties to the Israel-Hamas conflict: that is, compliance with international law, including international humanitarian law.

We are pleased this resolution puts on the record the importance of honouring and respecting UN mandates.

Thank you.