Financial Crime World

Financial Institution Security Measures in Occupied Palestinian Territory Critically Undermined

The United Nations has issued a warning that the financial institution security measures in the occupied Palestinian territory are critically undermined, posing a significant threat to the stability and well-being of the Palestinian people.

Dire Humanitarian Situation in Gaza

In a report delivered to the Security Council, UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where:

  • Over 38,000 Palestinians have been killed
  • Thousands more have been injured
  • Widespread destruction, displacement, and economic hardship have resulted from the occupation by Israel

Inadequate Financial Institution Security Measures

The report emphasized that the financial institution security measures in place are inadequate, making it difficult for humanitarian organizations to deliver aid to those in need. Specifically:

  • Attacks on humanitarian aid workers and shelters continue
  • Lawlessness and criminality are rampant
  • Consistent access through all crossing points is not provided
  • Better access to those in need is not ensured

Call to Action

The UN Secretary-General called on the Israeli authorities to take immediate action to address these concerns, including:

  • Providing consistent access through all crossing points
  • Ensuring better access to those in need
  • Strengthening institutions and preparing to govern and lead recovery and reconstruction efforts in Gaza

He also urged the Palestinian Authority to:

  • Strengthen its institutions
  • Prepare to govern and lead recovery and reconstruction efforts in Gaza

Threats to Two-State Solution

The report noted that recent developments are driving a stake through the heart of any prospect for a two-state solution. Specifically:

  • The Israeli government’s decision to legalize five Israeli outposts in the occupied West Bank has been widely condemned as a violation of international law
  • Thousands of settlement housing units have been advanced, further threatening the viability of a two-state solution

Urgent Steps Needed

The UN Secretary-General emphasized that all settlement activity must cease immediately, and Israel must ensure the safety and security of the Palestinian population. He also called for:

  • An immediate humanitarian ceasefire
  • The unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups

Conclusion

The report concluded that the situation in Gaza is a moral stain on humanity, and international humanitarian law must be respected at all times and by all parties. The UN Secretary-General urged all those with influence to take urgent steps to enable the parties to re-engage on the political path towards ending the occupation and resolving the conflict.