I would like to thank you, Mr. President, and France, for convening today’s Security Council open debate on the Middle East, including the question of Palestine.

I would also like to thank the distinguished briefers for their insights.

Recent Developments

The Philippines is deeply concerned about the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East and urges all parties to prioritize dialogue for a peaceful resolution.

We champion diplomacy and are committed to collaborating with nations under UNSC resolutions and international law to achieve a lasting solution to the conflict.

The Philippines reiterates its dedication to supporting peace and stability in the Middle East, with a focused commitment to resolving the Israeli-Hamas conflict.

Protection of Civilians

The presence of a significant Filipino community in the Middle East and Israel underscores the direct relevance of this issue to the Philippines and highlights the importance of our profound concern about the peace process. There is a need to de-escalate the situation, to avoid spilling over to other areas of the region, and negatively impacting innocent people that are not otherwise involved in the conflict.

The safety and security of all civilians is essential, and critical facilities, including humanitarian shelters and hospitals, need to continue to address the humanitarian needs of those affected in a sustained and resolute manner.

Support for UN Resolutions

The Philippines supports the full and immediate implementation of the resolution on “protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations” adopted by the 10th emergency special session of the General Assembly and the UN Security Council resolution 2712 (2023) on urgent and extended humanitarian pauses and corridors in Gaza.

We also support the full and immediate implementation of UN Security Council resolution 2720 (2023), calling for scaling up and monitoring humanitarian aid going into Gaza.

Indeed, the safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance in Gaza is urgently needed on a daily basis.

Humanitarian Concern

We recognize the staggering loss of life and the suffering of all civilians affected by the conflict and condemn all forms of violence and aggression from any party.

We also express deep concern for the unprecedented destruction of public and private buildings because of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

We also share the fears that the widespread damage will lead to a "lost generation" of young people.

We join the international community’s calls to immediately cease these attacks and release all hostages, including women and children.

Support for UN Efforts

The Philippines supports the efforts of the United Nations to deliver urgent humanitarian assistance and essential supplies to Palestinian civilians trapped and helpless in the Gaza Strip.

We commend the extraordinary efforts being undertaken by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and other UN agencies in responding to the humanitarian needs of affected populations in the ongoing conflict, even under extraordinary and dangerous conditions.

We also support the ongoing efforts of newly-appointed UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator Sigrid Kaag to accelerate aid flows into Gaza and expedite all areas of the assistance that is so much needed for civilians in Gaza, given the very acute humanitarian conditions that they have to live with.

To complement the UN’s efforts to increase aid, we echo the Secretary-General’s call on the parties to respect international humanitarian law, respect and protect civilians, and ensure their essential needs are met.

Support for a Two-State Solution

The Philippines reiterates its firm support for a two-state solution, in harmony with past international agreements and pertinent UN resolutions. We see this as a viable and sustainable pathway to resolve the Israel-Palestine conflict. Both Israelis and Palestinians deserve a future where their rights, aspirations, and security are recognized and upheld.

All parties, therefore, must refrain from unilateral actions that undermine the prospects for a two-state solution and jeopardize long-term stability for the people of the wider Middle East region.

Peace and Diplomacy

The Philippines recognizes that the conflict can never be resolved by violence, but through meaningful dialogues and negotiations, in accordance with international law.

Diplomacy must continue to be the driving force in achieving a lasting peace and comprehensive peace in the Middle East. We all want a comprehensive, just, and sustainable solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in order to achieve peace and stability in the Middle East.

Finally, we support the peaceful implementation of all UN resolutions and initiatives towards the resolution of the Middle East conflict, and support all efforts to revive the Middle East Peace process.

Given the significant impact of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on the region's stability, we believe that a lasting resolution can only emerge from diplomatic engagement, dialogue, and comprehensive negotiation, all rooted in international law.

Thank you.