Excellencies, distinguished delegates,

Firstly, Foreign Minister Ian Borg,[1] allow me to express our sincere gratitude to Malta for organizing this crucial debate on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. We commend Malta's leadership and commitment to fostering dialogue on this pressing issue.

Recent Developments

The Philippines expresses its serious concern over the increasing tensions between Israel and Iran. We urge all parties to refrain from escalating the situation and to work towards a peaceful resolution of their conflict.

The Philippines has long advocated for all states to adhere to the principles of international law and to the peaceful settlement of disputes. 

Support for a Two-State Solution

In line with our commitment to peace and stability in the region, the Philippines reaffirms its support for a two-state solution. We believe that Israelis and Palestinians deserve a common future where their rights, aspirations, and security are upheld. We thus urge all parties to refrain from unilateral actions that undermine the prospects for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, and endanger the life and livelihood of citizens and migrants alike.

Humanitarian Situation in Gaza­­­

The dire humanitarian situation in Gaza demands immediate attention. With over 90% of the population facing food insecurity and critical shortages of electricity and water, the suffering of innocent civilians is intolerable. The scale of displacement and destruction of homes and schools is alarming, threatening the future of an entire generation. We stand in solidarity with the affected communities and emphasize the imperative of providing lifesaving humanitarian assistance to alleviate their plight.

Safety of seafarers

We call for the protection and safety of civilian seafarers passing through the Red Sea, the Suez Canal, and the Gulf of Aden, and other contiguous areas, not only ensure free flow of commerce but also to safeguard innocent lives.

Protecting the rights and welfare of seafarers is a key priority for the Philippine government. In this regard, we seek the support of international community to spare no efforts to have them released and returned home as soon as possible.

We reiterate the belief that the interrelated conflicts in the region should be resolved through diplomacy and adherence to international law, leading to free and unimpeded commerce, and freedom of navigation in the Red Sea.

UNSCR 2728

The Philippines welcomes and recognizes the paramount significance of UN Security Council Resolution 2728, which addresses the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The ongoing humanitarian crisis demands swift and unified action from the international community. In this regard, we urge all parties to fully implement UNSC Resolution 2728 without delay, in order to alleviate the suffering of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire.

To date, the situation in Gaza remains dire. Tens of thousands have died and millions are displaced. The Philippines is one with the international community in calling for lasting sustainable ceasefire, the safe release of all hostages, and the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza.

Support for UNRWA

Furthermore, we reiterate our firm support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and urge the international community to provide sufficient and predictable funding to ensure the continuity of its vital humanitarian work; and development work, including on education.

Peace and Diplomacy

Mr. President,

The enduring Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains a pivotal determinant for the peace and stability in the Middle East. Recent exchanges between Iran and Israel further exacerbates the tension and threaten to accelerate the spiral of violence in the region.

The Philippines ardently urges all parties to elevate dialogue as the primary tool for a peaceful and lasting resolution. We strongly advocate for diplomacy to prevail in resolving differences. The Philippines stands ready to support efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace in the Middle East.

More than ever, the Philippines emphasizes the importance of upholding the UN Charter, international law, and relevant UN resolutions as the foundation for a just and peaceful resolution of the Palestinian question. We call on the international community to redouble its efforts to promote dialogue, deescalate tensions, and work towards a future of peaceful coexistence of the populations of Israel and Palestine, for the peace, stability, and prosperity of the Middle East.

Thank you, Mr. President.