General debate. Swedish statement delivered by Ambassador Mikael Anzén.
Madame Vice President,
We have witnessed an ongoing deterioration of the human rights situation in Palestine and Israel for a long time. This development is unacceptable and undermines the prospects for a two-state solution.
Human rights abuses against the Palestinian population under occupation continues. Since last year, violence by settlers has tripled. The persistent lack of accountability for the repeated violations of human rights is of deep concern.
The termination of the TIPH-mandate in Hebron, where Sweden has been active for 22 years, is regrettable. The situation in Hebron is deeply worrying, especially the violence including against Palestinian school children.
A long-term solution to the critical humanitarian situation in Gaza must be found and all humanitarian actors granted full access. The closure regime must come to an end.
A free and pluralistic civil society, where women’s rights are fully respected, is a requirement for any democratic society. Civil society must be allowed to work unhindered.
Sweden recalls Security Council resolution 2334 and the need for its full implementation, and condemns the continued expansion of illegal settlements
The international community needs to ensure that all countries act in accordance with international law.
I thank you, Madame Vice President.
