NEW YORK (ANA-MPA/ G. Garantzioti) –
The United Nations Security Council held an open session on the situation in the Middle East, with emphasis on the Palestinian issue and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) at the request of Algeria.
Greece reiterated its unwavering support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), as the agency continues its vital humanitarian work in Gaza, amid ongoing devastation and suffering.
Speaking at the Security Council meeting, the Greek Permanent Representative Ambassador Evangelos Sekeris expressed Greece’s deep concern over the ongoing difficulties in Gaza and stressed the irreplaceable role of UNRWA, saying that “at this critical moment, the role of UNRWA is decisive and irreplaceable. Its valuable work must not be undermined.”
Greece recently renewed its voluntary contribution to the organisation and voted in favour of the relevant General Assembly resolution on 11 December 2024. Sekeris stressed the need to protect UNRWA staff, saying that “humanitarian aid workers must be protected at all times, in accordance with international humanitarian law.”
Sekeris welcomed the recent ceasefire agreement, calling it a unique opportunity to “replace despair with hope.” However, he warned that rebuilding Gaza requires the expertise of UNRWA.
“Any scenario for the ‘next day’ in the Gaza Strip must be written with the substantive support and expertise of UNRWA,” he said.
Greece calls on the international community to maintain its commitment to supporting the agency, stressing that UNRWA has the “power to deliver in the present” by protecting the basic rights of thousands of people, including children, in Gaza.
Sekeris called on Israel to review legislation that may hinder UNRWA’s ability to operate, underlining the need for cooperation between Israel and UNRWA in the context of the ceasefire. While acknowledging Israel’s security concerns, he supported the implementation of the Colonna Report and compliance with the principles of neutrality.
Greece stressed the need to revitalize the political process for a two-state solution, in accordance with the relevant Security Council resolutions. Sekeris stressed that “the only long-term solution for the region is to chart a plan for a two-state solution, while recognizing Israel’s right to live in peace and security.”