Explanation of vote (after adoption) delivered by Latvia of resolution “Advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice on the legal consequences arising from Israel’s policies and practices in the Occupied Palestinian Territory”
New York, 18 September 2024
Mr President,
Today Latvia voted in favour of the resolution on “Advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice on the legal consequences arising from Israel’s policies and practices in the Occupied Palestinian Territory”.
Our vote reaffirms the unwavering commitment to the international law and support to the International Court of Justice, the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. Latvia considers the Court to be a key institution in the peaceful settlement of disputes, including by advising the General Assembly on legal questions upon request.
Consequently, it is in the interests of the international community that advisory opinions provided by the Court are treated with the greatest possible seriousness. This means addressing breaches, wherever they occur.
It is especially important for smaller countries, like my own country – Latvia. Given our history, marked by centuries under foreign rule and a struggle for independence, we rely on the United Nations Charter and respect for international law to guarantee our sovereignty.
Mr President,
We condemn in the strongest possible terms Hamas for brutal and indiscriminate attacks across Israel on 7 October 2023, and call for an immediate release of hostages without preconditions. We also reiterate our recognition of the right of Israel to defend itself, in line with international law and international humanitarian law.
The on-going deadly violence only corroborates the need for a political horizon, ensuring lasting peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians. Ceasefire in Gaza is vital to stop horrendous civilian suffering and to provide humanitarian relief at scale.
Today’s vote should be interpreted without prejudice to any decision on official recognition of the State of Palestine. Latvia remains committed to a just and comprehensive resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, based on the two-state solution, with the State of Israel and an independent, sovereign, democratic, contiguous, and viable Palestinian state, living side by side in peace and security, and mutual recognition.
I thank you!