Ministry Statements & Speeches:
Mr President,
New Zealand voted in support of this resolution after careful consideration.
We did so because we support a two-state solution and because we support international law.
As a strong supporter of the rule of law we previously voted in support of the 19 July resolution on the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice.
Many legal questions related to the Israel-Palestinian situation have already been asked and answered. What is needed now are practical actions to support the two-state solution.
We call on Israel to uphold its international legal obligations, including adherence to the Fourth Geneva Convention, and bring to an end its unlawful presence in the occupied Palestinian territory.
To improve the situation of the Palestinian people in Gaza, there must be an immediate ceasefire and there must be safe, rapid, and unimpeded humanitarian access.
Efforts must urgently focus on practical cooperation to achieve this. This must be the priority of the international community.
The Israel-Palestine conflict has gone on for too long. The suffering it has led to on both sides is immense. Its broader destabilising impact on the region is profound.
The only way to end the conflict is the two-state solution. Both sides need to return to negotiations to achieve this.
Thank you.