Reem Al Hashimy, UAE’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, during her address at the United Nations Security Council, stated that the Israel-Hamas conflict can spread to other parts of the region. She reiterated the stand of the UAE for an immediate ceasefire to protect the innocent civilian.

While speaking at the UNSC platform, she also highlighted the violation of human rights along with the violation of international humanitarian law. She stressed that “war has its own law and protecting civilians is foremost among these laws.”

She further warned that if the situation does not come under control, then extremist elements of the middle east region can try to exploit the situation for their vested interest. Her address also found mention of the tension in parts of the region like Lebanon, The Occupied Syrian Golan and the Red Sea.

While speaking further, she underscored that immediate international efforts must focus on early de-escalation of the conflict in case of failure it will have a negative effect in other parts as well.

Referring to UN data, she said more than 5,000 Palestinians have been killed so far; moreover, this number also includes 2,000 children. It is to be added that more than 60 per cent of the population is running for safe shelter and basic amenities after their displacement from the war-torn areas.

Speaking regarding the hostages, she called the attack of 7th October of Hamas heinous and barbaric. She demanded the immediate release of the innocent hostages who were taken into custody by the Hamas.

Hamas’s barbaric attack cannot be used as an excuse by Israel for collective punishment, she added. It is totally illogical to call the evacuation of the one million Palestinian from the north to southern Gaza.

She also addressed the issue of Aid delivery to the Gaza Strip. There should be an immediate end to the unjust and long-standing blockade ordered by Israel after the launch of its operation “Iron Sword”.

Notably, after the international pressure, Israel allowed a limited supply of humanitarian aid, but as per local sources, that aid is not enough at all. Even the UN had estimated that there is a need for 100 trucks per day with the aid.

Ending her speech, she advocated the two states’ solution to achieve the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people.