Statement by UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland, on the situation in the occupied West Bank

Jerusalem, 27 February 2023

I am gravely concerned by the deteriorating security situation in the occupied West Bank, particularly the violence we have witnessed in the past 24 hours in Huwwara, near Nablus.

My condolences to the family of the two Israeli brothers killed in a shooting attack yesterday by a Palestinian perpetrator and to the family of the Palestinian killed during a rampage by vigilante settlers in retaliatory attacks, which resulted also in many Palestinians injured and homes in Huwwara set ablaze.

Security forces have the responsibility to maintain security and prevent individuals from taking the law into their own hands.

There can be no justification for terrorism, nor for arson and acts of revenge against civilians. All perpetrators of violence must be held accountable. Violence, provocations, and incitement must stop immediately and be unequivocally condemned by all.

I am encouraged by the commitments reaffirmed by the parties in the final Communique of the Aqaba meeting, including on efforts to de-escalate the situation on the ground.

I urge both sides to make all efforts to address the core issues driving the conflict in line with UN resolutions, international law and previous agreements, including the principles of Oslo. 

The United Nations remains committed to supporting Palestinians and Israelis to achieve a just and lasting peace. There are no shortcuts to peace.

[ENDS]