A senior diplomat representing Russia at the United Nations stressed that any move toward normalizing relations between Israel and Arab states must not harm the Palestinian people or undermine their rights. The message was delivered during a session of the United Nations General Assembly focused on the escalating Middle East crisis, where several nations had urged continued engagement within the UN framework to address the region’s volatile situation.
The spokesperson underscored that, while the normalization of Israel’s ties with Arab partners carries positive diplomatic momentum, it cannot occur at the expense of the Palestinians. He emphasized that a lasting peace and stability in the Middle East depend on a comprehensive resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, not on selective progress in one area while core issues remain unresolved.
In explaining the broader balance of interests, the representative noted that many Arab and Muslim governments share this view. This alignment was reflected in recent regional diplomacy, including formal statements and resolutions adopted by several states. The point was that regional normalization should be coupled with a credible path to addressing the Palestinian question, ensuring that human rights and humanitarian needs remain central to any settlement.
The speaker highlighted a paradox in regional realities: broad international recognition of violations in Gaza stands alongside ongoing efforts to stabilize the region through dialogue and restraint. He referenced the international consensus regarding the unlawfulness of attacks on civilians and the responsibility of all parties to abide by international law to protect noncombatants and provide urgency to humanitarian relief.
Attention was drawn to the moral and legal concerns surrounding movement and access rights for Palestinians, including restrictions on religious and cultural visits that many people consider essential to their identity and daily life. These practices were cited as examples of how disparate policies can fuel further grievances unless addressed within a fair political framework that upholds fundamental freedoms and dignity for all residents of the occupied and neighboring areas.
The discussion also touched on the broader political environment in the United States and other Western capitals, where officials have at times linked the prospect of normalization with broader regional security aims. The emphasis remained on ensuring that any trajectory toward closer Arab-Israeli ties be paired with robust commitments to a comprehensive peace process that respects the rights and aspirations of Palestinians and contributes to a just, durable settlement for the entire region.