New york: UN Deputy Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Ramiz Alakbarov underscored Monday the need for a full implementation of the first phase of the ceasefire deal in Gaza Strip. Calling also for reaching an urgent agreement on the mechanisms for carrying out the following phases, noting that UN resolutions and the 20-point plan proposed by US President Donald Trump provide a pathway for moving forward. Alakbarov made the briefing in a session held by the UN Security Council to discuss the Palestinian issue.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Alakbarov stated that the ceasefire has largely held in Gaza, but recent Israeli airstrikes on populated areas have caused numerous casualties and destruction. He emphasized that this violence is jeopardizing the fragile ceasefire and urged all parties to exercise restraint and fulfill their commitments under the agreement. Alakbarov reported that the UN has intensified efforts to mobilize and scale up humanitarian assistance in Gaza, but highlighted that these efforts must be expanded.
Alakbarov affirmed that the New York Declaration on the peaceful settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, along with initiatives such as the Global Coalition for a Two-State Solution, could play a vital role in advancing efforts toward a resolution. He also referred to his visit to Gaza last week, during which he met with displaced people and humanitarian workers who are providing assistance on the ground.
In this regard, Alakbarov highlighted that preparations are underway for the Cairo Conference on the Reconstruction of Gaza, which provides an opportunity to align recovery priorities with a broader vision for Gaza's reconstruction. He welcomed Egypt's continued leadership in this effort. Regarding the situation in the occupied West Bank, he warned of the escalating settlement expansion and rising levels of violence.
Moreover, Alakbarov denounced blatant violations and crimes in the West Bank. He concluded by stating that the United Nations will continue to support all efforts aimed at ending the unlawful occupation and implementing a negotiated two-state solution, based on the pre-1967 lines, with Jerusalem as a capital of two states living side by side in peace and security.