We call for an unhindered and sustainable humanitarian access [fr]

Mr. President,

The humanitarian situation in Gaza is disastrous. The resolution adopted by the Security Council on the 15th of November, which calls for the establishment of urgent, lasting and extended humanitarian pauses, is a first step. We now need to reach a lasting humanitarian truce leading to a ceasefire.

France is fully mobilized. The international conference to support the civilian population in Gaza, which was held in Paris on the 9th of November under the auspices of President Emmanuel Macron, led to the pledging of more than one billion euros. France has already deployed more than 100 tonnes of humanitarian aid and provided humanitarian support to the tune of 100 million euros.

The priority must be access and delivery of humanitarian aid, and relief operations. We call for an unhindered and sustainable humanitarian access.

We express our deep concern about the Israeli military operations in the Al-Shifa hospital. International law and international humanitarian law must be respected by all, in all circumstances. We condemn in the strongest possible terms all bombing of civilians, and in particular civilian infrastructure.

France reiterates its condemnation of the Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel. All hostages held by Hamas and other terrorist groups must be immediately and unconditionally freed. France recalls Israel’s right to defend itself and protect its population, and its duty to do so while fully respecting international humanitarian law.

France is committed to preventing this conflict from spreading to the region. Regional actors must show responsibility and restraint.

Only a two-state solution, on the basis of agreed parameters and the relevant resolutions of the Security Council, will allow Palestinians and Israelis to live in peace and security. We must all work to make progress towards such a solution.

Thank you.