Human Rights Council – 61^st Session
General Comment on draft resolutions under item 7
Statement by Iceland
31 March 2026

Thank you, Mr. President,

Iceland would like to thank the OIC and Palestine for their work on those resolutions that relate to the human rights situation in Palestine.

Iceland supports the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and accordingly recognized Palestine as an independent state 15 years ago, in 2011.

At a time when civilian suffering continues to deepen, we are profoundly concerned by the ongoing erosion of human dignity and the failure to safeguard the fundamental rights of Palestinians.

Mr. President,

Iceland reiterates its strong opposition to Israel’s continued illegal settlement policies and activities in the West Bank, including in East Jerusalem, and in the occupied Syrian Golan.

Furthermore, Iceland condemns the escalation of settler violence in the West Bank, and calls on Israel as the occupying power, to hold those responsible accountable, and to ensure the protection and well-being of civilians under its occupation, in accordance with international law.

In Gaza, we continue to call for unhindered humanitarian access and urge all parties to respect the ceasefire. The full implementation of Security Council Resolution 2803 must be ensured.

The work of United Nations agencies, including UNRWA, is essential to support vulnerable communities and uphold human rights and international law and must be safeguarded.

Mr. President,

Iceland emphasises the urgent need for a credible pathway toward a just and sustainable peace based on the two-state solution and full respect for international law.

Only through accountability and respect for international obligations can the foundations for lasting peace be secured.

Iceland supports this resolution and encourages other member states to do the same.

I thank you.