Statement by PLO Executive Committee Member Dr. Saeb Erekat regarding the Security Council Vote

We took the decision to submit this resolution to the Security Council in order to seek the international community’s assistance in preserving peace and security as its mandate stipulates. We presented a resolution that is fully in line with international law, and which recalls several previously approved resolutions by the United Nations. Although, the majority of the Security Council voted in favor of the resolution, once again, certain countries continue to ensure impunity to the Israeli occupation and its severe international law violations by not voting in favor of the resolution.

We call upon the international community to assume its responsibility. Israel, a state that systematically violates international law and UN resolutions; and one that openly sabotages international efforts to have successful negotiations, should stop being treated as a state above the law. Ending Israel’s culture of impunity is required in order to achieve a just and lasting peace. We are not asking for anything new, just for countries to uphold to their responsibilities and deal with our case accordingly.

The Palestinian leadership will hold an emergency meeting on the evening of Wednesday the 31 December, 2014 to discuss the next steps. We strongly believe that diplomacy, including accession to treaties and international organizations is a right for the Palestinian people. Proceeding the meeting, we will announce our immediate future steps.