“I address you today with a deep sense of concern over the evolving situation in Israel and Palestine. We are at a watershed moment. israel’s threat to annex parts of the occupied West Bank has alarmed Palestinians, many israelis and the broader international community,” Guterres said, adding that if implemented, annexation would constitute a most serious violation of international law, grievously harm the prospect of a two-State solution and undercut the possibilities of a renewal of negotiations.

Reminding that the Palestinian leadership has reacted by considering itself absolved of all bilateral agreements with Israel and the United States, Guterres stated: “Increased economic fragility as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, reduced donor support, and the recent Palestinian decision to stop accepting clearance revenues that Israel collects on behalf of Palestinian Authority risk increasing the hardship of the Palestinian people.”

“I will continue to consistently speak out against any unilateral steps that would undermine peace and the chances for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through meaningful negotiations. Such actions also further hamper efforts to advance regional peace and to maintain international peace and security.”

Guterres urged israeli and Palestinian leaders to commit to meaningful dialogue, with the support of the international community.

“I call on fellow members of the Middle East Quartet to take up our mandated mediation role and find a mutually agreeable framework for the parties to re-engage, without preconditions, with us and other key States. Leaders must act wisely and swiftly and demonstrate the will to advance the goal of a just and lasting peace,” Guterres added. (ILKHA)