On the occasion of the 77th anniversary of the Palestinian Nakba, Cuba reaffirmed its unwavering solidarity for the Palestinian people and strongly condemned Israel's ongoing violations of their fundamental rights.
During the commemorative session at the United Nations, Cuba's Chargé d'Affaires, a. i. to the United Nations, Ambassador Yuri Ariel Gala López, recalled that the Nakba began in 1948 with the forced displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and continues today under persistent Israeli attacks, which count on the political, financial, military, and logistical support of the United States.
López condemned the killing of civilians, including children and women, as well as UN humanitarian workers; the bombardment of refugee camps; the destruction of essential infrastructure; and the systematic deprivation of basic services. "52,928 Palestinians have been killed, half a million are on the brink of starvation, and 71,000 children are at risk of acute malnutrition. There can be no doubt of genocide," he said.
He reiterated the urgent need for a comprehensive and just solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on two states. This solution would allow the Palestinian people to exercise their right to self-determination by establishing an independent and sovereign state within the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, which guarantees the right of return for refugees.
He demanded an immediate ceasefire and the recognition of Palestine as a full member of the United Nations, urging the Security Council to act without delay.
The Cuban diplomat stressed the need for humanitarian aid to reach those in need and for the blockade to end unconditionally. He reiterated support for the work of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which has been essential in providing assistance to the Palestinian people.
In conclusion, he emphasized the significance of the International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution. This conference provides the international community with an opportunity to take tangible actions to prevent genocide and annexation attempts, advocate for an end to the Israeli occupation, and support the independence and sovereignty of a Palestinian state. Ultimately, the conference aims to promote peace, security, and prosperity of all mankind.
Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations