During the UN Security Council Open Debate on the Middle East, held earlier today in New York, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade Ian Borg emphasized Malta’s commitment to prioritising the protection of all civilians.

He underlined Malta’s firm condemnation of the recent Hamas attack against Israel. Israel has the right to self-defence and responsibility to protect its people, in a manner consistent with international law, including international humanitarian law.

Minister Borg called for the immediate release of all Israeli hostages and underlined the importance of the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid to Palestinians living in Gaza. A failure to ensure the delivery of this aid could result in a humanitarian catastrophe.

Minister Borg urged all countries in the region to pursue de-escalation so as to prevent a wider conflict. He also urged all sides to commit to a just and comprehensive resolution of the Israeli/Palestinian question based on a two-state solution in line with relevant UNSC resolutions.

Malta will continue to follow developments on this very important issue and work together with other Council Members with the aim of agreeing a joint response.