Chair, 

The conflict in Gaza has dragged on for two years, causing nearly 70,000 deaths and an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe. UNRWA, as the backbone for humanitarian assistance in Gaza, has been holding its ground, providing shelter and relief, and safeguarding the only lifeline for two million civilians. During the past two years, over 380 UNRWA staff lost their lives in the conflict, for whom we express our deepest condolences. We also pay the highest tribute to all humanitarian workers who are risking their lives working on the ground. The current situation in Gaza remains dire, with two million people still trapped in danger. The international community must unite towards greater efforts. I would like to make three points. 

First, the current ceasefire should serve as the basis for a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire. Once a ceasefire is in place, there must be no more hostilities. We are gravely concerned about the repeated violations of the ceasefire agreements and the ensuing civilian casualties, and call on all parties, especially Israel, to abide by the provisions of the ceasefire agreements and to promote a genuine, comprehensive, and lasting ceasefire. 

Second, at present, the humanitarian assistance to Gaza still faces numerous obstacles. Essential supplies are in severe shortage and relief equipment cannot gain access. UNRWA’s important role in humanitarian assistance in Gaza is irreplaceable. The ICJ has issued an advisory opinion clarifying Israel's obligation to assist the Agency in its activities. The debate over the neutrality of UNRWA has long been settled. The independent review group appointed by the Secretary-General has reached a clear conclusion, Israel must fulfill its obligations under international humanitarian law as the occupying power, open all crossing points, lift restrictions on humanitarian access, cease its suppression of UNRWA, and ensure the safety and facilitation for UNRWA and other humanitarian agencies to carry out their work. 

Third, the two-year conflict has razed Gaza to the ground. UNRWA has a well-established team and ample capacity and is well-positioned to play an important role in the post-war reconstruction of Gaza. The Security Council is currently discussing a draft resolution on post-war arrangements for Gaza. China reiterates that Gaza belongs to the Palestinian people, not anyone else. Any post-war arrangements for Gaza must adhere to the principle of Palestine governed by the Palestinians, must respect the will of the Palestinian people, and should ensure the full and effective participation of the UN and the Security Council. Forcing through a resolution that fails to reflect the appeals of the Palestinian people and Arab states will only backfire and prove counterproductive. 

Chair, 

As an agency established pursuant to GA resolution, UNRWA is responsible for providing relief to Palestinian refugees in Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, among other regions, and also plays an important role in maintaining regional stability. At present, UNRWA faces a severe financial shortfall. The international community must step up its support for the Agency and traditional donor countries in particular should continue to provide assistance to UNRWA. 

China has long provided humanitarian and development assistance to Palestine and has always provided stable financial support to UNRWA. China supports the renewal of UNRWA’s mandate and its continued active fulfillment of its duties. China stands ready to work with the international community to promote a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire, alleviate the humanitarian crisis, implement the two-State solution, and make unremitting efforts towards a comprehensive, just, and lasting solution of the Palestinian question. 

I thank you, Chair.