Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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January 28, 2026 International law
"A potential turning point for Gaza" is how Deputy Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Ramiz Alakbarov described the current situation, speaking via video link to the Security Council on Wednesday.
"We are facing a potential turning point for Gaza, a genuine chance for a better future. But there is still much uncertainty. At the same time, we are seeing a continued deterioration in the situation in the occupied West Bank and a region engulfed in tension," Alakbarov said.
The UN will support the recovery process
He called the launch of the second phase of President Donald Trump's 20-point Comprehensive Plan to End the Conflict in Gaza and the establishment of the Peace Council's supporting structures, including the National Gaza Governance Committee and the Office of the High Representative for Gaza, an important step in consolidating the ceasefire in the Strip.
The Deputy Special Coordinator said he had recently returned from Cairo, where he had discussed with representatives of the Gaza National Governance Committee how the UN could support the provision of basic services, the delivery of humanitarian aid, and preparations for recovery in accordance with Security Council Resolution 2803.
"The United Nations stands ready to support the Committee and the Palestinians in Gaza as they begin the difficult work of rebuilding [the Strip]," Alakbarov said.
He stressed that the demilitarization of Gaza and reliable security mechanisms are key conditions for the National Committee's work.
The Deputy Special Coordinator welcomed the return of the remains of the last hostage from Gaza and expressed condolences to his family.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza
Commenting on the humanitarian situation in Gaza, Alakbarov noted that almost the entire population still needs assistance, and heavy rains and cold have worsened the situation for approximately 1.5 million displaced people who lack adequate housing.
He said humanitarian organizations are still unable to operate in Gaza on the scale required due to insecurity, restrictions on the entry of goods, delays at crossings, and limited routes.
Alakbarov also stated that, despite the current ceasefire, airstrikes, shelling, and firefights continue in Gaza. Civilians, including women and children, continue to die in the Strip. He called for the protection of civilians.
Israel's policies undermine prospects for peace
The Deputy Special Coordinator spoke about the situation in the West Bank, where violence, military raids, settlement expansion, home demolitions, and mass detentions of Palestinians continue.
Alakbarov announced a sharp increase in pressure on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), calling the actions of the Israeli authorities, including raids and demolitions of the agency's facilities, a gross violation of international law and UN privileges. He called on Israel to comply with the October 2025 advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice.
He concluded by warning that Israel's policies, from settlement expansion to forced population displacement, undermine prospects for peace and a two-state solution.
"Implementing the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan is crucial and will require our strong collective commitment. This is a real opportunity to lay the foundations for a more stable and secure future for Palestinians and Israelis," Alakbarov emphasized.
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