Bangladesh has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s inalienable right to self-determination, urging the United Nations Security Council to take immediate and effective measures to end Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories, illegal settlement expansion, forced displacement and human rights violations.
Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Irene Zubaida Khan, made the call while addressing an open debate of the UN Security Council on “The Situation in the Middle East, Including the Palestinian Question” at the UN Headquarters in New York on Friday, October 16.
Strongly condemning the widespread destruction in Gaza, Ambassador Khan expressed deep concern over land seizures, violence and the expansion of illegal Israeli settlements in Palestinian territories. She noted that such actions in the West Bank, East Jerusalem and other Palestinian areas constitute clear violations of international law and relevant UN resolutions.
The ambassador stressed that the deadlock within the UN Security Council had allowed Israel to act without being held accountable. She underscored the need for decisive action to halt annexation, illegal settlement expansion, forced displacement and human rights abuses, while ensuring accountability for those responsible.
Ambassador Khan also called for the continuation of the activities of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). She emphasized the importance of fully respecting the agency’s mandate and scope of responsibilities in providing assistance to Palestinian refugees.
Addressing the broader regional situation, Bangladesh’s permanent representative condemned Israeli attacks and occupation-related actions in Syria and Lebanon. She highlighted the importance of maintaining an adequate UN presence in Lebanon and expressed Bangladesh’s willingness to cooperate in this regard.
She also strongly condemned the deadly Houthi attacks on airports in Saudi Arabia that reportedly resulted in casualties among civilians, including Bangladeshi migrant workers.
Reaffirming Bangladesh’s commitment to promoting a culture of peace, Ambassador Khan urged all parties concerned to exercise maximum restraint to prevent a wider conflict in the Middle East. She also stressed the need to protect civilians and ensure compliance with international humanitarian law.
The ambassador called on the UN Security Council to fulfil its responsibilities effectively in upholding international peace and security and ensuring the rule of law. She emphasized that meaningful international action is essential to addressing the ongoing crisis in the Middle East and advancing a peaceful resolution to the Palestinian question.
