Distinguished Minister for Women's Advancement of the State of Palestine,
Dear colleagues,
Palestine is a sister nation, dear to the hearts of Cubans.
Cuba condemns, in the strongest terms, the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people; as well as the destruction of homes, hospitals, civilian infrastructure and the deprivation of water, food and electricity services that considerably worsen the critical humanitarian situation in the occupied Palestinian territories.
Over the past 17 months, the Israeli genocide against the Palestinian people has resulted in the death of more than 48,400 people in the Gaza Strip, including more than 12,200 women and 17,800 children; and more than 111,800 injured. In the Gaza Strip, 70% of the victims are children and women. These numbers are difficult to pronounce.
Israel further denies the entry of necessary humanitarian aid into these territories, even during the holy month of Ramadan. We reject Israel's ban on UNRWA's activities in its territory and contacts with its authorities. UNRWA's work is essential to ensure the delivery of humanitarian assistance to those in desperate need, including Palestinian women and girls.
The impunity with which the Israeli government continues to act undermines multilateralism and the essence of the UN Charter and international law. It also hampers the full enjoyment of the human rights of Palestinians, including women, who have been victims of systematic starvation, forced displacement, violence; have suffered the disintegration of their families and homes, the effects of the health crisis and limited access to essential life-saving services.
Just a few days ago we commemorated International Women's Day; a date on which we remember with admiration the dignified resistance of Palestinian women. However, the celebration will be complete when Palestinian women can exercise their right to live in peace in their own land. Let these days become a worldwide cry for them, in defense of their rights and their essential role in the reconstruction and development of their society.
To our Palestinian sisters, we ratify that they can always count on Cuba's unwavering solidarity to their legitimate cause.
I thank you.