UN: We are at the most dangerous crossroads in the Middle East in recent years

An open session was held at the UN Security Council regarding the situation in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories.

Briefing member states there, UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Tor Wennesland noted that the "horrific conflict" in Gaza is entering its second year, and stated that violence has increased significantly in the occupied Palestinian territories and the region at large.

Wennesland noted that just yesterday, at least 90 Palestinians were killed or went missing in an attack carried out by Israel in Beit Lahiya, 25 of whom were children.

Pointing out that this attack is yet another in a series of deadly strikes Israel has recently conducted in northern Gaza, Wennesland assessed, "We are facing not only a horrific humanitarian nightmare, but also a situation where the prospects for finding a sustainable solution to this conflict are rapidly disappearing."

Wennesland stated that he visited Gaza last week, saying, "What I saw is far beyond what was estimated."

Noting that he could only see two buildings that were not completely destroyed from the entrance of the Gaza Strip to Khan Yunis, Wennesland reiterated his call for a ceasefire.

Stating that he condemns the civilian deaths in Gaza, the ongoing displacement, and the treatment of detainees, Wennesland also expressed that he condemns the holding of hostages in Gaza and the rockets fired into Israel.

Wennesland stated that a "fundamental change is necessary" to improve humanitarian aid operations in Gaza.

"VIOLENCE HAS INCREASED TO ALARMING LEVELS"

Drawing attention to the fact that while the focus remains on Gaza, the situation in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem is also deteriorating and violence is increasing, Wennesland warned, "Since the start of the conflict in Gaza, violence here has increased and intensified to an alarming level."

Wennesland stated that he condemns all forms of violence and terrorist activities against civilians, and called on Israel to protect the Palestinian people and hold those responsible for the violence accountable.

"THE ONLY SOLUTION IN GAZA IS A POLITICAL SOLUTION"

Stating that the Israeli Parliament's approval of a bill aimed at ending the operations of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) is a unilateral step, Wennesland said, "This undermines not only the mandate given by the UN but also efforts for a political solution in accordance with UN resolutions and international law, and it must be prevented."

Wennesland expressed deep concern over Israel's efforts to dismantle UNRWA, emphasizing, "The only solution in Gaza is a political solution. It is essential to find a path to end the occupation and ensure a two-state solution."

"WE ARE AT THE MOST DANGEROUS CROSSROADS IN THE MIDDLE EAST IN RECENT YEARS"

Wennesland warned, "We are at the most dangerous crossroads in the Middle East in recent years."

Pointing to the rising tensions between Iran and Israel and between Hezbollah and Israel, Wennesland noted that, on the other hand, airstrikes continue from Yemen, Iraq, and Syria into Israel, and from Israel into Syria.

Wennesland stated, "All of our efforts must focus on de-escalating tensions and ensuring peace and stability in the region."

News Source: AA