THE UNITED NATIONS, 30 January. - (ANA) - The UN Security Council held a high-level open debate on the Middle East on Wednesday focusing on the Gaza peace plan – including the role of President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace – the continuing humanitarian crisis in the enclave and turmoil in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, following the demolition of UNRWA’s headquarters there. 

 

What happened:  The Security Council held an all-day debate on Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territory, with the Deputy Special Coordinator urging consolidation of the fragile ceasefire while warning of continued violence and settlement expansion in the West Bank.

 

Why it matters:  Despite the ceasefire, hundreds of Palestinians have been killed and humanitarian conditions remain dire.  Ongoing military operations, aid restrictions and settlement activity are undermining prospects for a two-State solution.

 

Driving ideas:  Speakers called for full implementation of the peace plan’s next phase, Gaza’s reconstruction, Palestinian self-determination and the protection of civilians. Several urged recognition of the State of Palestine, while others raised concerns about proposed new governance and security mechanisms.

 

The bottom line:  The ceasefire offers a narrow opening for peace — but without urgent action, delegates warned, that window could close quickly. - (ANA) -

 

AB/ANA/30 January 2026 - - -