Une responsable onusienne dénonce une accélération des activités de colonisation en Palestine occupée
Title: Escalation of Israeli Settlements and Violations of International Law in the Occupied Palestinian Territories
Introduction
In a recent meeting of the United Nations Security Council, Sigrid Kaag, the interim Special Coordinator for the Peace Process in the Middle East, expressed grave concerns about the intensified Israeli settlement activities and the ongoing violations of international law in the occupied Palestinian territories. Her remarks highlighted alarming developments between December 7, 2024, and March 13, 2025, emphasizing the significant impact these actions have on the prospects for peace and the stability of the region.
Increased Settlement Construction
Kaag reported that during this three-month period, Israeli authorities advanced or approved the construction of over 10,000 new housing units in the occupied West Bank, with roughly half of these developments situated in the holy city of Jerusalem (El-Qods). This construction aligns with a long-standing pattern that contravenes United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334, which, established in 2016, calls for an immediate halt to all settlement activities in the Palestinian territories.
Demolitions and Displacement
In addition to settlement expansions, there was a marked increase in the demolition and confiscation of Palestinian structures. Kaag noted that 460 buildings were demolished, resulting in the displacement of 576 individuals, half of whom are children. This surge in demolitions further exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in the occupied territories.
Casualties and Violence
Kaag also outlined the human toll of the ongoing conflict in the region. In Gaza, at least 3,860 Palestinians have been reported killed, with 5,979 sustaining injuries, reflecting the continued bombardments that resumed recently. The ceasefire that took effect on January 19 has been violated, leading to renewed violence in the occupied West Bank where 123 Palestinians, including 19 children and six women, lost their lives due to Israeli military operations. Additionally, violence from Israeli settlers against Palestinian villages has resulted in 118 injuries among Palestinians.
Palestinian Prisoners
The situation of Palestinian prisoners has also drawn Kaag’s attention. Since December, Israeli forces have arrested 1,711 Palestinians in the West Bank. The total number of Palestinians currently imprisoned has reached 9,406. Reports from released prisoners indicate that many have experienced mistreatment and inhumane conditions during their detention, highlighting serious human rights concerns.
Threats to Peace
In conclusion, Sigrid Kaag warned that these negative trends threaten the viability of a two-state solution, a long-desired resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. She urged the international community to take proactive steps to prevent further escalation and to work towards a peaceful resolution in the region. The increasing violence, rapid settlement expansion, and alarming humanitarian conditions necessitate urgent and collective action to restore hope for peace in the Middle East.
Call for International Action
Kaag’s remarks underscore the need for collective international efforts to address the ongoing crisis in the occupied Palestinian territories. The international community is called upon to hold accountable those responsible for these violations and to support initiatives aimed at achieving a lasting peace that respects the rights and aspirations of both Palestinians and Israelis. Failure to act may hinder any prospect of negotiations and prolong the suffering of those affected by the conflict.
In summary, the escalating Israeli settlement activities and the ongoing human rights violations in the occupied territories reflect a dire situation that requires urgent attention and action. The continuation of such practices undermines the potential for peace and stability in the region, making it imperative for the global community to prioritize efforts that foster dialogue, reconciliation, and respect for international law.
