NEW YORK, June 11, 2026 (WAFA) – Palestine’s Permanent Observer to the United Nations, Riyad Mansour, stressed the importance of achieving a just and lasting peace in accordance with relevant United Nations resolutions, including the Arab Peace Initiative and the New York Declaration.
Speaking during an open debate of the UN Security Council on the maintenance of international peace and security, titled “Advancing Political Solutions in the Middle East: Mediation and Dialogue for Sustainable Peace,” Mansour emphasized the need to protect Palestinian civilians amid ongoing challenges in the occupied Palestinian territory.
The session was chaired by Colombian President Gustavo Petro, whose country holds the presidency of the Security Council for the month.
Mansour underscored the necessity of ensuring protection for Palestinian civilians, particularly in light of continued Israeli military attacks in Gaza despite the declared ceasefire, as well as ongoing violations and attacks against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem.
He said international mediation remains an essential tool for resolving conflicts and that its success depends on adherence to international law, accountability, and the establishment of effective implementation mechanisms to ensure compliance by all parties.
Mansour noted that international mediation efforts had produced six key principles incorporated into the ceasefire agreement and UN Security Council Resolution 2803. These include full respect for the ceasefire, the delivery of humanitarian assistance in accordance with international law, rejection of occupation, annexation and forced displacement, the reunification of the West Bank and Gaza Strip under the Palestinian Authority, and recognition of the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and statehood.
He added that despite the ceasefire entering into force, nearly 1,000 Palestinians had been killed, while humanitarian aid deliveries continue to face obstacles and severe restrictions affecting the work of the United Nations and non-governmental organizations.
Mansour further stated that Israel had expanded its control over large parts of the Gaza Strip while the Palestinian Authority continue to face mounting political and financial pressures aimed at pushing it to the brink of collapse.
Mansour called for intensified international efforts to end the Israeli occupation, uphold sovereignty and international law, and achieve a comprehensive and just peace that guarantees security, stability and prosperity for all peoples of the region.
M.N
