Highlights of the noon briefing by Deputy Spokesman for UN Secretary-General (excerpt on Gaza Conference) 11 June 2024

11 June 2024

(Excerpt)

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Gaza Conference

Good afternoon everyone. The Secretary-General spoke earlier today at the High-Level Meeting on Gaza that is taking place in Jordan.

He highlighted the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza and said that at least half of all humanitarian aid missions are denied access, impeded, or cancelled due to operational or security reasons.

He told leaders attending the conference that it is high time for a ceasefire, along with the unconditional release of the hostages.

The Secretary-General underscored that the only way forward is through a political solution that opens a path to sustained peace, based on two states, Palestine and Israel, living side by side in peace and security, on the basis of the pre-1967 lines and the relevant United Nations resolutions, previous agreements and international law, with Jerusalem as capital of both states.

Martin Griffiths, the Emergency Relief Coordinator, also spoke in Amman and he said that all crossings must be open and functioning at full capacity. Entry requirements for humanitarian supplies and personnel must be streamlined.

Safe, conducive and enabling conditions for humanitarian aid workers have to be ensured for the effective reception and provision of aid to civilians in need throughout Gaza, and the UN Flash Appeal for Gaza must be fully funded, he added.

After Jordan, the Secretary-General is scheduled to be in Geneva where he will attend meetings this week to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD). While in Geneva, he will also address the Council of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU).

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