Mr. President,

I thank you for convening today’s session and I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Mr. President,

I thank the Commissioner-General on the briefing provided here today.

The Netherlands shares concerns expressed about the legislation adopted by the Israeli parliament obstructing UNRWA in its capacity to operate its mandate.

The humanitarian situation in the Gaza strip is dismal.

The ban on UNRWA is an immediate concern for the continuity of humanitarian aid. 

The loss of aid and services at this stage of the conflict would only exacerbate this dire situation. This must be addressed by Israel and all others involved, also in relation to responsibilities under International Law, including international humanitarian law.

The Kingdom of the Netherlands remains strongly committed to provide humanitarian aid through various channels to those in need.

While legitimate concerns about the neutrality and impartiality of UNRWA need to be addressed

– and we stress the need to implement fully the recommendations of the Independent Review Group report –

the work of UNRWA at this moment in time is of crucial importance. 

Potentially expelling a General Assembly-mandated UN organization like UNRWA will not only affect the much needed humanitarian aid and basic service delivery.

But also undermines the concerted efforts of the UN and the multilateral system to promote peace, stability, development and human rights in the region and would set a negative precedent.  

 

The Kingdom of the Netherlands will continue to work with all partners towards a sustainable and peaceful solution for all.

We call for an immediate ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, the unimpeded delivery of sufficient humanitarian aid to those in need.

Mr. President, we urge Israel to carefully consider its international obligations and the impact on the ground before taking further action.

I thank you.