During a recent open debate at the UN General Assembly, the ambassador addressed the Middle East situation, specifically highlighting the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Hamas movement. The ambassador urged all parties involved to cease fire without delay, demonstrate utmost restraint, uphold international humanitarian law, and implement necessary measures to safeguard the lives of individuals. Additionally, the ambassador emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and immediate release of all hostages, while also minimizing harm to critical civilian infrastructure in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the UN Security Council’s Resolution 2573.
The Vietnamese diplomat has urged the international community, with a particular emphasis on all relevant parties involved, to take necessary steps in order to bring an end to the ongoing conflict. This includes facilitating discussions and negotiations, granting access for humanitarian aid, and enabling timely and unhindered relief efforts to reach those in dire need. Additionally, there should be a focus on guaranteeing the safety of individuals engaged in providing humanitarian assistance.
Giang voiced his endorsement for the UN's mediation endeavors, as well as the involvement of member nations, international and regional organizations. He stressed the importance of ceasing activities that fuel further violence and animosity between the two factions in the long run. Giang called for an end to the expansion of settlements in the West Bank, the demolition of Palestinian homes, their forced evictions, and urged respect for the existing state of holy sites in Jerusalem.
The representative from Vietnam put forth a proposal to recommence the operations of the Middle East Quartet. He emphasized the importance of all parties returning to the negotiating table in order to address the root causes of the conflict, with the ultimate goal of achieving a two-state solution in line with international law and relevant UN resolutions. This includes the establishment of an independent Palestine state, with East Jerusalem being recognized as its capital, existing peacefully alongside Israel within internationally accepted borders based on pre-1967 lines. Additionally, he appealed to the United Nations and the United Nations Security Council to work towards a unified and constructive message, which would contribute to easing tensions, putting an end to violence, safeguarding civilians, and supporting the resumption of dialogue and negotiations.
During the recent open debates, numerous nations voiced their apprehension regarding the escalating tension and its potential to spread throughout the region. They strongly condemned the attacks that resulted in significant civilian casualties and dire humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip. The area was subjected to a complete lockdown, leaving its residents without access to electricity, water, medicine, and other vital necessities for several days. The majority of countries urgently called for an immediate ceasefire and the creation of a humanitarian corridor, which would facilitate the transport of essential aid into the Gaza Strip from external sources.
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has called upon all parties involved to honor their responsibilities outlined in international humanitarian law. It is crucial that they prioritize the safeguarding of civilians and essential infrastructure.
