The recent escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hamas has brought the Middle East to the brink of a major war, according to Vassily Nebenzia, Russia’s permanent representative to the UN. Nebenzia expressed his grave concern over the escalating violence in the region and called for an immediate ceasefire to prevent an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe.
In a press conference following a closed-door meeting of the UN Security Council, Nebenzia unequivocally condemned the killings of both Israeli and Palestinian civilians. He specifically highlighted the events that took place on Israeli territory on October 7 as unacceptable. Nebenzia stressed that Russia stands against the violence and holds the US partly responsible for the brewing war in the Middle East.
Nebenzia accused the US of irresponsibly and selfishly obstructing the work of the quartet of mediators, which includes the UN, the US, EU, and Russia. He claimed that the US has been monopolizing the peace process and trying to impose its own vision of peace on Palestine, without addressing the root causes of the conflict. This approach, according to Nebenzia, contributes to the dangerous escalation of tensions in the region.
The Russian diplomat also highlighted Israel’s long-standing violations of various UN resolutions, including the expansion of its illegal settlements on occupied Palestinian territory. He acknowledged Israel’s right to defend its citizens but criticized its tactics, labeling them as collective punishment of Palestinians. Nebenzia emphasized that such actions are unacceptable and hinder the prospects of a peaceful resolution.
Russian President Vladimir Putin also weighed in on the situation, calling the recent attack on Israel unprecedented in history. Putin stressed the need for negotiations and the establishment of an independent Palestine as the only way to resolve the long-standing conflict. He expressed Russia’s readiness to mediate between Israel and Arab nations, given the consent of the parties involved.
Russia, with its close ties to both Israel and Arab nations, could play a crucial role in facilitating dialogue and peace negotiations. Nebenzia’s remarks and Putin’s statement demonstrate Russia’s commitment to finding a diplomatic solution to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The international community should take note of their calls for an immediate ceasefire and greater efforts to address the root causes of the conflict.
It is imperative for all parties involved to prioritize the well-being and security of civilians by putting an end to the violence and engaging in meaningful negotiations. Only through dialogue and a genuine commitment to peace can a lasting solution be achieved. Russia stands ready to contribute as a mediator, and it is crucial for the US and other international stakeholders to support these diplomatic efforts.
As tensions continue to escalate, the international community must act swiftly to prevent further bloodshed and devastation in the region. The mounting human toll demands an immediate and concerted effort towards de-escalation and a path towards a comprehensive and just peace. The stakes are high, and failure to address the root causes of the conflict could have severe consequences for regional stability and global security.
In conclusion, Russia’s representative to the UN, Vassily Nebenzia, has raised alarm about the risk of a major war in the Middle East and called for an immediate ceasefire. He criticized the US for hampering peace efforts and accused Israel of violating UN resolutions. Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the need for negotiations and an independent Palestine. Russia is willing to mediate, and it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize dialogue and work towards a peaceful resolution. The international community must act swiftly to prevent further escalation and address the root causes of the conflict to secure a lasting peace in the region.
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