Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov used his September 26 appearance at the United Nations General Assembly to focus part of Russia's message on Gaza, the West Bank and the future of a Palestinian state.
What Lavrov said about Gaza and the West Bank
Speaking afterward at a UN press conference, Lavrov said his delegation had discussed what he called the "catastrophe in Gaza," continuing settlement activity in the West Bank and the broader Palestinian-Israeli conflict during a week of bilateral and multilateral meetings.
Lavrov said in his General Assembly statement that the situation in the West Bank was deteriorating rapidly. At the press conference, he argued that recent settlement decisions could sever the territorial connection relevant to a future Palestinian state and make its establishment impossible.
Resolution 2803 and Russia's abstention
He also returned to UN Security Council Resolution 2803 and Russia's decision to abstain rather than veto it. Lavrov said Moscow had doubts about the text, including what he described as an insufficient role for the United Nations, but abstained after requests from Arab states and Palestinians.
Moscow's offer on a political settlement
On Gaza, Lavrov said Russia remained willing to assist efforts toward a lasting political settlement if requested by Palestinian and Arab parties. He again emphasized Palestinian political unity and referenced past Russian-hosted talks involving multiple Palestinian factions.
How to read the remarks
His remarks reflect Russia's stated diplomatic position and should be read as such. They are not an independent assessment by IsraelNews.io of Israeli policy, Palestinian politics or the feasibility of a two-state solution.
