On March 26, during the general debate on the human rights situation in Palestine and the occupied Arab territories as part of the 58th Regular Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Vietnamese representative Ambassador Mai Phan Dung, Head of Vietnam’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, delivered a speech calling for an end to the conflict, the protection of civilians, and the promotion of a two-state solution to the Palestine-Israel issue.

Expressing deep concern over the prolonged violence resulting in significant loss of life, destruction of civilian infrastructure, and dire humanitarian conditions for millions of Gaza residents, Ambassador Dung emphasized the urgency of providing humanitarian aid, including food, medicine, shelter, and other essential needs to protect the lives and dignity of the Palestinian people.

Vietnam urged all parties to strictly comply with international humanitarian law, especially the obligation to protect civilians and civilian objects, by applying the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution in all military activities.

Reaffirming Vietnam’s consistent stance, the Ambassador stated that sustainable peace, justice, and security can only be achieved through direct and constructive dialogue, based on respect for the United Nations Charter, international law, and relevant United Nations resolutions.

The debate attracted considerable attention from numerous countries amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Palestine, particularly following intensified airstrikes and clashes between Israeli forces and the Hamas movement, resulting in heavy casualties, including women and children.

Critical civilian infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, and power stations have suffered extensive damage, plunging the humanitarian situation in Gaza into crisis.

Vietnam’s statement reflected the country's independent, self-reliant, and peaceful foreign policy and its role as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2023–2025 term.

It also demonstrated Vietnam’s commitment to working with the international community to address security, political, and humanitarian issues while promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Middle East and worldwide.

The 58th Regular Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council is scheduled to continue until April 4.

In the coming days, the session will hold discussions on the promotion and protection of human rights worldwide and evaluate the implementation of major human rights declarations and action plans, such as the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action, the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action on combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and intolerance.

At the end of the session, the Human Rights Council will deliberate and adopt around 32 draft resolutions on human rights situations in various countries and thematic resolutions.

PV