Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis addressed the United Nations with a strong appeal for urgent humanitarian access to Gaza and a renewed commitment to a two-state solution as the only viable framework for peace in the Middle East.
“The humanitarian catastrophe continues. Civilians are enduring deeply distressing conditions. No one should be forced to live like this,” he told delegates, stressing the urgent need to avoid further escalation of the conflict.
Humanitarian Aid and Diplomacy
Gerapetritis highlighted Greece’s active role in supporting relief efforts. He noted that Athens has systematically provided humanitarian assistance, even receiving injured children from Gaza for treatment in Greek hospitals. He also underlined that Greece has voted in favor of every UN resolution aimed at alleviating the crisis, including the latest demanding the removal of all restrictions on humanitarian aid.
He insisted that diplomacy remains “the most effective means of resolving disputes, even under the most adverse circumstances,” adding that Greece will continue to back negotiation efforts and called on all parties to return to the table guided by international law.
Hostages and Civilian Protection
The minister condemned the plight of hostages held by Hamas and reiterated Greece’s call for their immediate and unconditional release. He underscored that civilians, particularly children, are paying the highest price in the conflict, stressing the urgent need for safe and uninterrupted delivery of food, water, shelter, clothing, and medicine across Gaza.
Settlements and Two-State Solution
Gerapetritis expressed deep concern over the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, warning that such actions undermine prospects for peace. He condemned settler violence, including attacks against Christian communities, and urged an immediate halt.
Despite current difficulties, he maintained that “the two-state solution remains the only viable way forward.” He emphasized that the Palestinian Authority, once strengthened and reformed, must play a central role in Gaza’s future governance, while Hamas—designated as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, and other countries—cannot play any role.
Regional Stability and Greece’s Role
As a country at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Greece sees stability in the Middle East as a direct priority. “For Greece, stability in the region is not theoretical but an urgent necessity,” he said, underlining that developments in the Middle East directly affect European and Mediterranean security.
He concluded that peace and stability can only be achieved through dialogue, adherence to international law, and the recognition of dignity and security for all peoples in the region.
