Feb 19 β€’ 02:47 UTC πŸ‡°πŸ‡· Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

UN Security Council Condemns Israel's De Facto Annexation of West Bank

The UN Security Council criticized Israel's policies that facilitate land acquisition in the West Bank, labeling them a form of de facto annexation.

At a UN Security Council meeting in New York, Rosemary DiCarlo, the UN Under-Secretary-General, condemned Israel's unilateral actions in the West Bank, stating that these actions are leading to the gradual de facto annexation of the territory. DiCarlo highlighted that such measures facilitate land purchases and building permits, which in turn could lead to the expansion of settlements. This criticism comes in the wake of a decision by the Israeli cabinet to ease land acquisitions for Israeli citizens in areas governed by the Palestinian Authority, reflecting a significant policy shift that appears to undermine Palestinian governance.

In support of the Palestinian cause, Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian Ambassador to the UN, pointed out the underlying colonial narrative of these policies, emphasizing their fundamentally racist elements. British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, who presided over the meeting, stressed the need to stabilize the West Bank and preserve the viability of a Palestinian state. The discussions at this UN meeting coincided with the upcoming inaugural session of a US-led peace committee, which may create a competitive dynamic with the UN's efforts in the region.

The UN representatives from 85 member states issued a joint statement condemning Israel's unilateral decisions and actions aimed at expanding its illegal presence in the West Bank. This strong international response signals deepening concerns about the ongoing conflict and the implications of Israel's policies on regional stability, underscoring the urgent need for a resolution that respects Palestinian rights and sovereignty.

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