On Thursday, April 18, the UN Security Council gathered to discuss the ongoing situation in the Middle East and the Palestinian Authority’s request for full member status in the United Nations. The PA currently holds observer status, but is seeking full membership in order to gain greater international recognition and support for its cause.
In his opening remarks, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed grave concerns about the escalating violence in the region and called on all stakeholders to exercise restraint. He condemned both the recent Iranian attack on Israel and the Israeli strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, emphasizing the urgent need to break the cycle of violence.
Guterres also highlighted the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where there are ongoing tensions between Palestinians and Israelis. He urged for a cessation of hostilities in Gaza and demanded that all hostages held by both sides be released immediately.
The Secretary-General also expressed alarm at the explosive situation in the West Bank, where casualties from both sides have been rising. He criticized Israel’s ongoing expansion of settlements, which he said violated international law. He urged Israel to end settler violence and protect the Palestinian population.
During discussions at the Security Council, a draft resolution was proposed by Algeria on behalf of the Arab group that would grant full member status to the Palestinian Authority. However, reports indicated that it was unlikely to pass due to opposition from several countries including the United States. The US government has repeatedly stated that direct negotiations between Israel and Palestine are necessary for any lasting peace agreement.