In a meeting convened by France at the United Nations Security Council, Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Espen Barth Eide, addressed the escalating situation in the Middle East, particularly focusing on the Palestinian question. The meeting comes at a pivotal moment, marked by ongoing hostilities and humanitarian crises affecting the region.
Expressing concern for the people of Gaza, Minister Eide highlighted their plight, facing not only bombardment and military confrontations but also grappling with alarming levels of malnutrition, lack of medical facilities, and clean water shortages. He labeled the situation a deep humanitarian crisis, one of the most dramatic in recent times.
Minister Eide also extended thoughts to the people of Israel, acknowledging the heinous attack by Hamas on October 7th, which included acts of sexual violence. He called for the immediate release of all hostages and expressed concern about escalating violence, including settler violence, in the West Bank.
Emphasizing the importance of upholding international humanitarian law, Minister Eide stressed that violations are unacceptable and warned against compromising established rules, as doing so may jeopardize their efficacy in future conflicts.
Norway, among the first Western countries to call for a sustained humanitarian ceasefire, continues to advocate for such a cessation. Minister Eide urged a significant escalation of humanitarian efforts, not just in terms of volume but also in terms of content, efficiency, and access throughout Gaza. He welcomed the appointment of Sigrid Kaag to a crucial role in this regard.
While acknowledging the necessity of these humanitarian measures, Minister Eide asserted that a political solution is paramount. He reiterated Norway’s commitment to supporting the political track, emphasizing the need for a Palestinian state. Recognizing the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to statehood, he called for one, united Palestinian governance for both Gaza and the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority.
In a bid to strengthen the Palestinian Authority, Minister Eide announced Norway’s readiness to assist in the transfer of taxes and levies collected by Israel on behalf of the Palestinian Authority. He also commended the efforts of ministers from Arab and OIC countries in developing a comprehensive plan for the region’s future.
Minister Eide proposed a connection between the pursuit of Palestinian statehood and broader regional peace, including legitimate security guarantees for both Israel and Palestine. He urged the Security Council members to take their responsibility seriously and act in the midst of the crisis, viewing the situation not only as a challenge but also as an opportunity for the international community to unite and halt the fighting.
In his concluding remarks, Minister Eide called on the Security Council to seize the moment, address the immense suffering in Gaza, and work towards a two-state solution that would bring stability to Israel, Palestine, and the broader region.
