Thank you, Mr. President.
Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield addressed the UN Security Council regarding a draft resolution on the Middle East situation. She emphasized shared goals among Council members, despite existing divisions.
"Our foremost goal is to achieve an immediate and sustained ceasefire," she stated, highlighting the need for a deal that leads to the release of hostages held by Hamas and other groups. This would also facilitate increased humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Thomas-Greenfield stressed the importance of action over mere intentions. "We have to do the hard work of diplomacy," she said, noting that resolutions hold little value if not implemented effectively.
The United States, Egypt, and Qatar are actively working in the region to secure a ceasefire as part of a broader agreement. "We believe we’re close, but not there yet," she acknowledged, underscoring the Security Council's critical role in applying pressure on Hamas.
She highlighted the human cost of delays: "Every day without a deal means more needless suffering." This affects over 100 hostages, including children, innocent Palestinians in Gaza facing displacement and starvation, and Israelis under missile attacks from Hamas since October 7.
The proposed resolution aims to condemn Hamas for its terrorist acts and sexual violence while advocating for civilian protection in Gaza. It stresses that major ground offensives pose significant risks to civilians and calls for Israel to remove barriers to humanitarian aid amid famine threats in northern Gaza. The resolution also opposes resettlement calls for Gaza and supports Palestinian Authority control over the region, reiterating backing for a two-state solution.
"This is a strong resolution," Thomas-Greenfield asserted. She described it as a product of extensive negotiations reflecting Council consensus. "It helps make a ceasefire possible."
She concluded by urging all Council Members to support the resolution: "It would be a historic mistake for the Council not to adopt this text."
Thank you, Mr. President.