Question of Palestine

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Afghanistan
Delegate Name: Ellen Vial
School: Royal Oak High School

The legal status of Palestine has caused much strife in the Middle East and much conflict abroad over the past 60 years. To the nation of Afghanistan, a fellow Islamic entity, the answer is obvious; the region of Palestine should be recognized as a sovereign nation by members of the United Nations, particularly the states of Israel and the United States.

The territory of Palestine, under the control of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), is prepared to become an official sovereign state thanks to the structure of the PLO and its overwhelming support from Palestinians. The PLO functions as a government, maintaining a parliament (Palestine National Council), a standing army (Palestine Liberation Army), and a treasury department (Palestine National Fund).

Despite this level of organization lacked even by some current members of the United Nations, Palestine is continuously barred from gaining nation status by the undermining of Palestinian dignity by the state of Israel. Israel continues to expand their borders into Palestinian territory and prevent foreign aid from entering the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

The fundamental human rights of Palestinian citizens must be protected. The most effective way to ensure this is to legitimize borders between Israel and Palestine. An assurance of legitimacy would stabilize the region and lead to the creation of diplomatic relations between Middle Eastern nations involved in this conflict.

Palestine not only deserves recognition as a sovereign nation, but has proved itself worthy of said recognition countless times.

Although the answer to the Palestinian question is an easy one, the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan understands the process of achieving such a solution will not be so quick. However, the status of the Palestinian territories should ultimately be the decision of Palestine, under the direction of the Palestine Liberation Organization.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Cameroon
Delegate Name: Alexandra Plichta
School: Mattawan High School

After Israel was created, tempers among Palestinians flared. With ongoing violence terrorizing much of Israel, there is obviously no development in the conflict between Palestinians and Israelis over land ownership. Strict border security and checkpoints also generates safety precautions for Israel’s citizens, but obviously, a solution must be agreed upon so that these precautions aren’t needed. In order to satisfy Palestinians, an agreement must be made so that they achieve independence from Israel. Violence will be prolonged in the area if a solution isn’t reached. Being an exporter of military equipment and pharmaceuticals, further conflict within Israel’s area may slow the exporting of these things to the areas that need it. Cameroon has been in a similar state of being when we gained control of the Bakassi Peninsula from Nigeria. As a result, many Nigerians who lived in the area were infuriated over this.

Cameroon finds that allowing this violence to continue would, clearly, have no benefit. Despite the fact that creating a state for Palestinians is a daunting task, some kind of compromise between Palestinians and Israelis must be accomplished. Considering the fact that the United Nations split Palestine so that Israel may be formed, causing the hostility, Cameroon suggests that the United Nations work with Palestinian, Israeli, and surrounding leaders to compose an accord that will satisfy Palestinians. The compromise should satisfy them in their pursuit for land while keeping in mind the opinions of the surrounding nations. In no way, shape, or form should the bloodshed in this area be ignored, nor should it be solved by additional violence.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Canada
Delegate Name: Thomas Miller
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Canada feels that the violence in the region of the Middle East has gone on long enough. Fighting between the members of the Israeli Military and Palestinian forces is nothing new to hear for most people. Solutions have been attempted many times, sometimes leading to “success”, but shortly after this “success” the results presented by the debates, the fighting begins to break out once more, and the violence ensues. This reoccurring problem may seem as if it is impossible to solve, but Canada believes that with the proper discussion and time, the issue will present a solution for itself. The member nations of the UN who are not directly involved will need to give their feedback and assistance on a possible outcome of this debate. Canada believes that if all nations provide at least on specific thought or idea, the solution will become much clearer. This is certainly a topic that we need to address, and one that I am sure many of the member states would like to see solved.

Canada would like to see the countries that are involved with this issue take a center role. Also, the countries that are in the immediate surrounding area should present their ideas and support on the topic. This regional cooperation has been missing for as long as anyone can remember. If the surrounding countries would simply present their ideas to the countries involved in the form of a working paper, the paper would better reflect the consensus and general opinion of the region, making the ending resolution much more effective, and more likely to be followed. If the surrounding countries and the countries directly involved can produce an effective working paper that can be easily understood and followed through on, the remaining member bodies of the UN should respect their decision, and help in any way they can.

The countries that are not in the immediate area or being directly involved should no less share their thoughts on the matter. Those who are simply separated from this issue may very well think of something that the involved parties might not. This is exactly how an effective and successful resolution is formed, by cooperation between those involved, and with the support and aid of those not.

Canada realizes that this may seem overwhelming to try and find a solution to a problem that has been plaguing the region for what seems like all of history, but we believe that if everyone is to simply give their input to the involved parties, and show their support to the working paper they think is best, that the Special Political Committee will find at the very least an agreement between the two involved bodies. A resolution that best reflects the input and ideas of those not part of the issue, the consensus of those in the surrounding area, and an agreement between the parties would prove to be one that could be followed, and hopefully one that will lead to a solution.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: China
Delegate Name: Veronica Duin
School: Royal Oak High School

The People’s Republic of China expresses it’s great concern over the current situation in the Middle East between the States of Israel and the State of Palestine. We are in support of a peaceful two-state solution for the two factions as outlined in the 2003 Roadmap to Peace. We desire that equal respect be paid by the international community to the religious and historical ties of both Arab people and Jewish people to the land.

In order for peace to be achieved, the People’s Republic of China stresses that both parties to the conflict must cease violent or military acts against the other as they are detrimental to the peace process and only serve to harm innocent civilians. Both governments must also recognize the legitimacy of the other in order for peaceful negotiations to ensue. These negotiations are the People’s Republic of China’s favored method of resolving the conflict.

The humanitarian crisis in the Gaza strip must also come to an end. The Israeli government must open border crossings to and from Gaza and allow transportation of humanitarian aid across the border.

To honor the previous legislation passed by this body, the United Nations, and those treaties to which they are signatories, the State of Israel must stop construction of settlements in the West Bank. The construction of these settlements has delayed the peace process and the order for the discontinuation of said settlements is a reasonable request of the international community and the State of Palestine.

The United Nations should continue it’s support and facilitation of peace talks. The United Nations should endeavor to be an impartial mediator within the Middles East, one that does not find itself under the influence of individual Member States’ prejudices and biases. We should strive to uphold equality and justice with regards to this complex and difficult situation.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Croatia
Delegate Name: Sara Yufa
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

The question of Palestine has been a topic of great concern for many years. Primary issues relating to this topic include attaining a peaceful solution over ownership of the land in Palestine and securing this solution for future permanence. The governmental situation in Palestine is also extremely unstable. The power struggle, which the two prominent governmental powers of Palestine, Hamas and Fatah, participate in, makes it very difficult to achieve solid diplomatic negotiations. It is exceptionally important for the people of Palestine to form a stable government of their own. Without a government that is stable enough to govern an independent state, Palestine cannot move forward and end its’ occupied status.

The involvement of the United Nations has been essential to the development of Palestine. Since 1948 when Great Britain relinquished authority over the Palestinian territory, the United Nations has worked as a mediator between Palestine, Israel, and other surrounding nations. As a member of the United Nations, Croatia is similarly concerned with happenings in Palestine. Croatia proposes that Palestine arrange negotiations between Hamas and Fatah regarding power. Croatia also proposes that through peaceful means, Palestine negotiates the issue of land ownership with Israel. It is after these issues are resolved, that Palestine may end its’ occupied status. Croatia feels that the United Nations have the responsibility to ensure that peace is established but never at the expense of any group of people, it is with this in mind the Special Political committee should push forward.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Ecuador
Delegate Name: Jacob Garber
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

Violence between Israel and Palestine has been going on for some time, and The Peoples Republic of Ecuador does not foresee an end to the violence any time in the near future. This does not mean that we wouldn't like to see an end to the violence, or that we think it is not possible to find a peaceful solution to the conflict. Ecuador believes that it is possible for this body to promote peace between Israel and Palestine, but not if we continue to pass resolutions whose main purpose is to condemn Israel. While Ecuador does believe that both sides have much to be sorry for, there are more productive ways for us to deal with the problem than just pointing fingers.

Ecuador does not expect any progress to be made in negotiations between Israel and Palestine unless concessions are made on each side. We supports the United States of America's call for a freeze on Israeli settlements in Palestine. A freeze on settlements would be a strong statement by Israel in support for peace, and we believe that moderate Palestinians would react positively as a response. One of the biggest questions relating to peace in Palestine is the question of who will lead them going into the future. If Fatah stays in power, we believe that there will be opportunities for this body to promote peace successfully in the region. However, if Hammas continues to govern parts of Palestine, we have no assurance that they will respond positively to the international community. While peace between Israel and Palestine is an issue that can only truly be solved by cooperation between the two parties directly involved, we in the General Assembly can certainly step up our efforts and propose more productive solutions. We hope the "Road to Peace" plan is followed more closely going into the future.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Egypt
Delegate Name: Sidney Moore
School: Flint Northern High School

Palestine is a small region of land between the Mediterranean sea and the Jordan river. The state of Israel and the people of Palestinian have long fought for control of what they both believe to be holy land. For the past fifty years the United Nations has tired numerous peace plans to help ease the rising tension between the State of Israel and Palestine. Although none were successful. Success has been made difficult by there views on who should get what land and who shouldn’t. Both feel entitled to the land of Palestine.

Egypt express concern at the slow of pace efforts between the state of Israel and Palestine to reach a compromise. The occupying Power continued to blockade Gaza, as well as its settlement activities in the West Bank and attempts to change the character of Jerusalem, all of which ruined Palestinian hopes for stability and stoked the volatile situation in the region. Because the division among the Palestinians had led to difficulties in restoring their rights, Egypt has been sponsoring a dialogue between Palestinian factions to heal the rift. In order to assume peace the occupying Power must lift its blockade of Gaza and start a serious negotiation process based on the land for peace principle and with reference to all relevant Security Council resolutions.

Egypt is very concerned with the stability of the Middle East and it’s economical growth. If peace between the state of Israel and Palestine is achieved it would have an unimaginable amount of positive effects for are region. Egypt continues to support communication between both parties and hopes through U.N support and determination we can one day achieve peace at are borders.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: France
Delegate Name: Todd Baker
School: Roeper School

While it is absolutely understood that an issue as massive and longstanding as violence between Israel and Palestine cannot hope to be solved quickly, France urges the delegates here today to be comfortable enough to take the major steps that are essential to guaranteeing freedom and safety to both the Israeli and Palestinian people.

Let no time be wasted in saying that the Palestinian people must be granted the state that they have been deprived of for so many years. This huge step, which France knows is the single most important step for this body to take, will single-handedly cut down huge portions of the violence that plague the Arab-Israeli borders, and the occupied territories. Let this not be interpreted as a call for the stripping of Israeli freedoms either; the Republic of France is more than ready to acknowledge the tragedies that have befallen the Israeli people, and the to acknowledge the need for a home in which they may feel free and safe.

The Republic of France asserts that these two ideas are reconcilable. An Israeli and a Palestinian state may coexist peacefully, and France rejects any assertions that this is untrue. One need only look at history to see how possible this is. There are, however, clearly major steps that need to be taken in the meantime. France is willing to be the first to say that one of these steps is the international recognition of a Palestinian state, by all nations, Israel not withstanding. Only after this fundamental move towards justice can we hope to move towards peace. By means of multilateral talks, intense negotiation between the two powers with the aid of other major powers, and other means of diplomacy, such as The Quartet, of which France is a member, we can achieve the goal we all seek: a united peace between Israel and Palestine with freedom and sovereignty to all.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Tessa Lathrop
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Since the first half of 2007, Germany has increased its engagement in the Middle East peace process. In regards to the question of which ethic group is given rights to Palestine, Germany is a firm supporter of Israel and its right to exist.

Because of the National Socialist Dictatorship, which was responsible for the genocide of six million European-Jews, Germany has a “special” relationship with Israel. This special relationship is the cornerstone of Germany’s foreign policy. The two countries are partners in striking a fair balance of who occupies Palestine and Germany is the largest financer of Palestinians in the EU.

Germany is sympathetic towards Arabs, Palestinians, Jews, and Israelis because of their responsibility in driving out millions of their countrymen. Germany believes a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can only be done with a foundation of negotiation and support. We believe whoever threatens Israel threatens Germany. This requires a sincere willingness to negotiate on the part of all stakeholders as well as external support.

Since the international conference in Berlin on 24 June 2008, Germany is in the process of funding 242 Million American dollars over the next few years to establish a viable judicial system and police force in Palestine.

Ultimately, Germany wishes for Israel to be an “independent, democratic and viable Palestinian state” that exists with peaceful cooperation with its borders.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Iran
Delegate Name: Lauren Treiber
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The issue between Palestine and Israel is, doubtless, the most popular, most provocative, and most unbearably disheartening conflicts of the century. When an extremist minority of the Jewish population decided in the late 1800s to colonize the region of Palestine, it was with the intention of creating a Jewish homeland. Though at first the immigration was not a foreseeable threat, eventually the scales began to tip and the indigenous population became alarmed. Naturally, though however unfortunately, fighting broke out with swelling waves of violence. To make matters worse, Hitler’s evildoings pushed the Zionist movement to Palestine in even larger numbers. The UN intervened in 1947 with a rather medieval strategy by which an outside power divvies up other’s land, instead of sticking to the usual standard of “self-determination of peoples.” At present, there are two primary issues at the heart of this conflict. First, there is the predictably threatening effect of trying to uphold a culturally preferential state. The second issue, which can be broken down into several parts, has everything to do with Israel. Perpetual military occupation, confiscation of privately owned land in the West Bank, and control over Gaza are extraordinarily significant elements of this conflict.

In terms of Iran’s involvement and say in the matter, it favors Palestine’s objectives over those of Israel any day. Palestinians have negligible control over their lives; over 10,000 men, women, and children are held in Israeli prisons, many of which have gone without a rightful trial. They endure physical abuse, strip searches, and torture; women in labor are oft prevented from reaching hospitals (which frequently results in death); food and medicine are kept from entering Gaza, and Israeli forces invade on a near daily basis to injure, kidnap, and kill occupants. Iran has supported the replacement of Israel with a unitary Palestinian state, although the Islamic Republic has also expressed its willingness to accept a two-state solution if the Palestinians find it satisfactory. Iran recognizes Israel not as a legitimate state, but as Palestine under occupation, and furthermore believes that Jerusalem is a rightful asset of the Palestinians.

This subject is so volatile and marvelously multi-faceted that it’s rather hard to tell which way the debate will swing during the conference. Logically, nations such as the United States, the UK, Germany, and China defend the “plight” of Israel (excuse the sarcasm), while the most likely to assist Palestine are Russia, Syria, Pakistan, and, as always, Iran. It is remarkable how apt young people are to scheme ridiculous yet surprisingly reasonable arguments for a conflict such as this. There probably isn’t a single person other than myself who is a fan of ambiguity, but even so, on the subject of this particular SPECPOL issue, I leave you with a mysterious, “we’ll see.”

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Israel
Delegate Name: Talya Slaw
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The situation in the Middle Eastern region did not develop overnight. Since Israel’s creation as a sovereign state, the situation has grown ever more complex, and ever more difficult to deal with. And this situation is the consequence of many choices – many times wrong choices – made by Palestinians to adopt terrorism and violence, even towards their own people, over peace and negotiations with Israel.

Israel seeks only peace – a genuine, defensible, permanent peace. A peace in which two states can be recognized – one Palestinian, one Jewish – and live side by side in peace and security. The Palestinian recognition of this vision will move the peace process forward. Terrorism and violence will not.

Five years ago, in pursuit of this vision of peace, Israel removed its settlements from the Gaza strip, uprooting thousands of Israelis. Former Secretary-General Kofi Annan called this a courageous decision. After this, member states assured Israel that if we needed to defend ourselves, international legitimacy would be on our side.

It seems in recent times that Israel’s hope and vision that was in mind when this courageous decision was made has turned into a seemingly never-ending nightmare. Instead of the promotion of a functioning Palestinian society, terrorist organizations have built only an infrastructure of terror. Instead of peace, these organizations have silenced opposition and incited an entire generation to hatred and violence. As Israel pulled out of Gaza, another moved in – Hamas terrorism. Hamas openly rejects Israel’s right to exist, and openly calls for the bloodshed of millions of innocent lives. And while this happens, the world stands and does nothing to end this terrorism.

Instead, the UN has produced the fact-finding Goldstone Report. Israel regrets to inform that this report is one-sided, biased, and therefore entirely wrong. This report favors and legitimizes terrorism and falls directly into the strategy laid down by terrorist organizations around the world. It denies Israel’s right to defend it’s citizens and furthermore will prevent all democratic Member States from defending themselves against terrorism. Instead of the UN Security Council moving towards a solution of resumed negotiations and ultimately peace, the debate instead has shifted to a discussion that is only destructive to the peace process. Israel cannot be asked to take further risks for peace until the international community halts this counterproductive discussion and recognizes Israel’s right to self-defense.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Kenya
Delegate Name: Jackson Peebles
School: Mattawan High School

Kenya strongly encourages the United Nations to promote lasting peace in Israel and Palestine. The current situation in which the Palestinian Hamas possess control of the Gaza Strip and West Bank is unacceptable. The Hamas are a recognized terrorist group, and do not operate in compliance with established protocols. However, neither territory is particularly valuable for economic stability or the health of the Islamic people within the land, and the military barriers further prevent a successful society from being established by Palestine. As Kenya has experienced firsthand from the recent civil war, peace will never occur in the region until an acceptable compromise has been reached by both Israel and Palestine.

Israel is greatly respected internationally and especially in Kenya, where the struggles of the country to gain independence and defend itself is further recognized. While the majority of our citizens disagree with the views of the Israeli Jewish Biblically, we further disagree with the violent, radical Palestinian terrorist cells. Regardless, we feel that if a compromise is reached in which either the international community and/or Israel gives up an amount of agriculturally suitable land as well as formally recognizes Palestine as an independent nation, it can bring military stability to the region, and eventually, the globe. Existing agencies such as the UNRWA and acts like the General Assembly Resolutions 192 (III), 237, 242, 302 (IV), 393, and 513 can be enhanced, although they provide an adequate framework for Palestinian refugee treatment and processing.

The issue of Palestine has been an long-lasting issue plaguing the United Nations for decades. The conflict for control of Jerusalem extends even further historically. The time has come for the United Nations to attempt to resolve this problem to the relative satisfaction of both groups, which Kenya, which we believe to accurately represent the majority of Africa, believes is plausible if certain freedoms are extended to Palestinians.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Lebanon
Delegate Name: Luke Baewer
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

As the representative of Lebanon speaking on our country’s behalf we feel that Palestine must thrive in the Middle East. There must be a separation of Israel and Palestine to avoid worse conflict. Past resolutions proposed by Israel have been insufficient to peacefully resolve any conflict about this problem. There must be a separation to avoid a full blown war. Palestine must have a larger state. A compromise needs to be made with Israel and neighboring nations.

There must be redemption served for Israel's terrible resolutions proposed. The nation of Israel has absolutely no standard for this situation other than pushing Palestine away from them. There must be a peace treaty created between these two neighboring nations. If there is no peace treaty and they can not come to an agreement on border lands there very well may be a war and/or rivalry between these two groups of people forever. We need a solution to relieve the arguments about their borders. We propose a meeting between us, Syria, Israel, and Palestine to resolve this conflict with any other nations who feel they could help better this situation. Any help from any other nation is greatly open. There must be a peace treaty. We must have a compromise between these two people. We hope very much for a compromise where both parties are happy and satisfied. But we do not want a one sided satisfied compromise. Even a compromise where both parties are left disatisfied is a good compromise.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Libya
Delegate Name: Sam Lazar
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

The state of Palestine has been under question ever since Great Britain released it from its’ control in 1948. Palestinians have been given the land in Gaza and the West Bank but feel they deserve the right to the land that comprises the modern-day state of Israel. The rights have been disputed for decades and a diplomatic solution to the issue of land-rights is well overdue. There has been much violence on each side but Libya believes that the UN can help bring about peace in the region.

Libya has long supported Palestinian rights, a fact that has been contested repeatedly by the United States. The U.S. Believes that Libya’s advocation of groups such as the Palestine Liberation Organization is the equivalent of promoting terrorist groups. Libya is simply sympathizing with the situation of a fellow Arab state and recognizing that civilians in the West Bank and Gaza are being oppressed and downtrodden by the Israelis. Libya believes that a peaceful coexistence could be made possible in the state of Israel and believes that the UN should host meetings between leaders of the Israeli government and of Hamas and Fatah.

While a resolution to conflict is in progress, there is still much violence going on in Israel and Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza are forced to undergo very strict protocol which seldom allows them to pass from city to city and rarely lets them out of the regions borders. Libya believes that there needs to be a more effective security system implemented in the region until conflict is resolved. One that supports the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights which both parties involved in the conflict are subject to, perhaps. Libya hopes that a solution to the conflict may come out of this meeting and looks forward to a peaceful agreement between the people of Israel and Palestine.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Malawi
Delegate Name: Margo Dixon
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Palestine is a geographic region that lies between the Mediterranean Sea, and the Jordan River, along with other adjoining lands. Both Muslims and Jewish people view Palestine as rightfully theirs, whether for religious reasons or because of territorial claims to the land. With three of the five major religions based in Jerusalem, the conflict over the status of Palestine often becomes a religious issue as well. The problem that faces Palestine is what religion should hold power of an area that both groups view as their rightful homeland.

Malawi urges other countries to band together and help the people of Palestine make a resolution that is beneficial to both Palestinians and Israelites. Due to physical conflict that has recently occurred, Malawi believes the United Nations should take action as soon as possible to save lives, and to keep any more conflicts from escalating.

In the future Malawi wishes to see Israel and Palestinians living in peace. We see a region where two different religious and cultural groups can live together in harmony. Malawi hopes that towns and cities that are segregated, can become desegregated, and the religious groups can work together peacefully in the workplace. As of now the Jewish people govern Israel as well as the Palestinian region, but hopefully in the future the Islamic people can begin take part in the government of their own country, and work together in peace with the nation of Israel. Malawi has high hopes for the Muslim and Jewish people living in Palestine, and can see change happening quickly due to the participation of the United Nations.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Mozambique
Delegate Name: Erik Burbulla
School: Roeper School

The question of Palestine is one of the most problematic international situations that exist in the world today. The conflict arose when the Jewish movement to create a Jewish state in the British mandate of Palestine gained momentum. The UN General Assembly quickly enacted resolution 181 which created separate Muslim and Jewish states. The new state of Israel was not accepted by the surrounding Islamic community and soon Israel was invaded by Arab nations who supported Palestine. After the 1948 Israeli victory, hostility remained between Israel and its neighbors, and the proposed Palestinian state did not come into being.

Israel amassed much of territory that was to belong to Palestine, leaving Palestinians in the Gaza Strip under Egyptian control, and the West Bank and East Jerusalem under Jordanian control. In a series of wars, and after many conflicts with the surrounding nations of Jordan, Lebanon and Egypt, Israel in 1967 gained those additional former Palestinian areas of the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem. Israel maintained a firm military occupation of the Palestinian territories despite the adoption of SC Resolution 242 which firmly states that the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories must end immediately. In 1980 Israel ‘formally’ annexed the area of East Jerusalem. Since this date the borders of the Palestinian territories have continued to change, as Israel has constructed its so-called ‘Security Barrier’ in violation of international law, and cutting off hundreds of Palestinian villages from the rest of the West Bank. The UN considers these Palestinian areas to be under Israeli occupation. Currently political groups have been organized in the Palestinian territories to fight Israel to regain the Palestinian territory.

The problems currently facing the peace process are the issues of Israeli settlement of Palestinian territories in the West Bank and Palestinian terror against Israel. The previously noted barrier wall built by Israel, which functionally annexed Palestinian lands was deemed illegal by the International Court of Justice. A major impediment to a lasting peace is the right of Palestinian refugees to return to lands in Israel that were their original or ancestral home villages. There is currently a stall in peace talks between Israel and Palestine because the Palestinians as a precondition to talks want a cessation of settlement building by Israel and the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu refuses to concede this precondition. Since 1967, over half a million Jewish settlers have moved to pre-1967 Palestinian lands.

The current resolution that is favored by all parties is to redefine Israel and Palestine’s boundaries to create two separate states. The UN has officially acknowledged that it approves of the “Roadmap to Peace” which was put together by the quartet which included Russia, the US, the UN and the EU. The Security Council has attempted in the past to place stricter rules on Israel which was met with opposition by the US most of the time. This resistance has led the General Assembly to pick up some of the work on Middle-Eastern peace, however the US presence on the Security Council has always prevented effective international sanctions against Israel..

Mozambique is officially a non-aligned nation and is solely searching for a peaceful answer to the conflict that both sides can agree upon. Mozambique feels that a two-state solution is the only feasible solution to this problem and it feels that this solution could lead to the ultimate normalization of relations between Israel and the surrounding Arab world. Mozambique especially wants to bring to the forefront the suffering of the innocent Palestinians as the people of Mozambique know what it is like to be controlled by a foreign power during their age of colonialism by the Portuguese up until 1975. Mozambique feels that with cooperation from both sides this issue can be resolved peacefully and end Middle-East tensions.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Netherlands
Delegate Name: John Buchanan
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The Kingdom of the Netherlands supports the growth of the territory Palestine, but is also against it in a sense that part of the region is terrorized by the terrorist organization Hamas. The Kingdom of the Netherlands is in favor of the Palestinian Authority which is currently in the political position of power. The Kingdom of the Netherlands has also shown that the country has gone in favor of the Palestinian Authority by donating money to funds to help the police force grow along with other organizations, in the Gaza Strip and reduce the amount of violence in that area due to the terrorist group Hamas.

Although being in favor of the establishment of Palestine as a country, The Kingdom of the Netherlands also believes it would be best for the whole world if there were no nuclear weaponry within the middle east to help ease the stress of those countries who are struggling to keep the region at peace.

As well as taking note to the acts of violence in Lebanon The Kingdom of the Netherlands has come up with the Declaration adopted at The Hague on 27 June 1986 by the Foreign Minister of the Twelve on the situation in Lebanon. Which states within the annex that Lebanon should set free all of the remaining Palestinian refugees. The Kingdom of the Netherlands feels that the territory that is Palestine should have it’s own borders and become a non- observer party member to the United Nations, along with no excessive violence involving nuclear warfare within the middle east.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Nigeria
Delegate Name: Evon Pervan Keller
School: Roeper School

As a nation dominated by Islam, Nigeria is sympathetic to Palestine. With is on-going war with Israel, Palestine has been forced into the isolated area of Gaza which is a giant leap down from what they used to control. However, as does many other nations, Nigeria hopes for a peaceful settlement between Israel and Palestine. Nigeria hopes that in this agreement, a peaceful return of the areas of West Bank and the rest of Gaza to Palestine. Or at least a suitable amount. Nigeria believes that a peace agreement can be made only by the ceasing of military and guerilla actions plus the even splitting of West Bank and Gaza. Disarmament is key in creating a stable environment in the Gaza area. Though Israel proposed its “ Road to Peace” plan, it is highly unlikely that any side will be able the plans created by the Israeli government as they are certain to have an unfair lean towards the wants of the Palestinian people. However if a U.N agreement can be made wit points of pro and con for both opposing factions, then there is a chance that a fair peace agreement can be made in which Israel and Palestine can agree on and make moves towards a more stable Middle East. It is of great importance that this peace agreement be one in which both Israel and Palestine can agree upon. Nigeria hopes that with this agreement, moves towards peace can made in the Israel-Palestine area.

Evon Pervan-Keller

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: North Korea
Delegate Name: Greg Cline
School: Royal Oak High School

Ever since the creation of Israel and the displacement of the Palestinian people by meddlesome western powers there has been terrible and unnecessary violence in the region. Thousands of Palestinians and hundreds of Israelis have been the unfortunate victims of this conflict. There is no reason for this conflict to continue and it is the United Nation’s duty to do everything possible to end it.

Even after the west had the impudence to evict the Palestinians from their homes, they did not keep their agreement with the Palestinian people and stood idly by while Israel expanded their territory and pushed the Palestinians into a smaller area, leaving them destitute.

The United Nations owes the recognition of Palestine as a sovereign nation at the very least. Perhaps then the international community will no longer be able to ignore rights of the Palestinian people and will end the bullying of Palestine by Israel and the west. If the United Nations truly had any sense of equality they would restore the land originally promised to Palestine, and oblige Israel to return to its legal borders.

Given that the ideal situation will obviously never come to pass as long as the allies of Israel dominate the international community, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea feels that the best solution is to recognize Palestine as a nation and work to preserve what little territory it has left before Israel poaches the rest of it.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Norway
Delegate Name: Anders Helakoski
School: Mattawan High School

The violence in Palestinian territory has been going on for centuries. Although much of the fighting has slowed down, too much violence is still going on. Many attempts have been made at true mediation, but none have carried very much success. Even now, too many other countries are adding to the fray by funding either side of the conflict, whether it be Israeli or Palestine. In time, the war's influence would continue to spread to more nations, stirring more hatred and more violence. Culturally, the nation of Norway is very peaceful and a participating member of the North Atlantic Trade Organization. Therefore, Norway is looking for preserving world peace and one of the biggest conflicts going on now is this war around Israel.

Norway proposes to resolve this issue by first gaining an organized group supporting a peace treaty in the area. Once a firm organization is established, the countries in this group, along with help from NATO, other countries in the United Nations, NGO's, the European Union and others, a working treaty could possibly be established with a fair resolution for both sides. Norway has no alliance or favoritism between Israel or Palestine, only for the general peace. We expect that our allies will be mostly other European nations and perhaps some other semi-developed nations with peaceful intentions. Norway would be opposed to any one-sided intervention for that would likely spur more fighting and also be very controversial within the UN itself. Also, we would be opposed to no resolution being passed because some action needs to be made, even if it isn't all that substantial.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Pakistan
Delegate Name: Ashley Smith
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan considers the Palestinian question to be one of the most pressing and enduring issues in the world. It is with regret for previous missteps and hope for a peaceful future that we meet at this summit. Currently, one of our greatest concerns in the Middle East is Israel’s propensity for violence against the Palestinians. The Palestinians, a people displaced through misguided diplomacy and beleaguered by a virtual stalemate over their geographic future, have been forced to withstand great persecution for merely attempting to remain in sole possession of their land.

The conflict between the Israelites and the Palestinians is one with a long and eventful history, but at our impending conference, we must focus not on the petty quarrels that history has buried but on the willingness of the Palestinian leaders to work with Israel to create lasting peace in the Middle East. We support President Abbas’s attempts to reach out to Israel and form a mutually-beneficial two-state solution, and we are greatly encouraged by the reasonable request of President Barack Obama of the United States of America for Israel to make a serious effort in demonstrating its desire for peace by ending its attempts to settle Palestinian territory. However, we are woefully concerned by Israel’s refusal to heed President Obama’s and the global community’s requests. Despite international expression of dismay at its careless defiance, Israel still pursues increased Jewish occupation into Palestine. It is this type of behavior that has prolonged the conflict between Israel and Palestine, and it is this type of behavior that we must seek to end.

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan believes that this conference will provide constructive debate that can lead to genuine progress in the Middle East. It is our hope that the current tendency for moderation in Palestinian politics will lead to an enduring solution between Israel and Palestine.

Respectfully submitted,

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Palestine
Delegate Name: Malcolm Bean
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

Palestine is tired of being referred to as a Territory as if we are some forgotten colony of a Western power. It seems to have been forgotten by the dusty dragon of the United Nations, left to become a forgotten mosquito in the ear of Israel. An example of this is obviously the name of this topic, The Question Of Palestine. What has Palestine done to have its basic rights, national sovereignty? Nothing, the Country of Palestine will no longer allow others to dictate its destiny by use of this system. So instead of the irrational cacophony of voices we have banded together to make sure that our children are not forgotten in the tide of the West. All that we want is a homeland so that future generations shall know who they are and all of the pride that goes with that.

But what is to be done? The Territory of Israel has received huge influxes of arms, money, and in some especially risque cases men, all from countries that are fearful of a Palestinian state. And this is in full purview of international law, we do not question that. What Palestine struggles with is when Israel denies us aid sent to us by any group, be they Arabic powers, or even the Red Cross. Their reason for these raids on aid, which includes food, clothes necessities for life mind you, is that we are bringing in weapons into what little land we have. This is obviously preposterous why would the Red Cross, an internationally recognized agent of peace be bringing us guns? Unfortunately it seems that, that question’s answer is not obvious for if it were the Country of Palestine could feed it’s children. Still complaint is fruitless unless a plan of action can be suggested to end the causes of those complaints. So in short Palestine wishes to see its national sovereignty recognized so that we may peacefully co-exist with all of its neighbors.

This requires several things including, but not limited to, our own land an example of a now suitable division of land is that set out in U.N. Resolution 181. At first Palestine was not happy with giving up any of it’s land to any other party regardless of any extenuating circumstances. But after years of having no land, no rights, no life we are willing to try to appease both parties. We are happy both with the equal amount of land given, the fact we have some costal land so we may trade independently, and the fact that the resolution calls for equal rights to all citizens. We feel that the majority of arabic states would be in favor, while the west possibly may call for even further bureaucratic process so they can get what’s best for them.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Russia
Delegate Name: Leslie Cyranowski
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The conflict between Israel and Palestine is sometimes over looked because it is so long-winded. This is not the case in the Russian Federation; unlike Sudan, Russia believes that this issue should be a priority in the United Nations because of the horrific crimes committed upon humanity. Since 2002, Russian leadership has cooperated very closely with the United States, the European Union, and the United Nations to promote a ceasefire between Israel and Palestine. This grouping has become known as “the Quartet.” Russia is harshly critical of the Israel-Gaza conflict and has condemned the actions Israel has taken. In order for this issue to come even remotely close resolution, both sides in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict must be compelled to accept peace immediately.

Russia believes that an international presence in the Middle East in a form that is acceptable to both Palestine and Israel would help to restrain the dangerous tendencies in that region. An idea developed by former foreign minister, Yevgenny Primakov is that a solution should be imposed on Israel and the Palestinians. The situation in the Israel-Palestine area is at a boiling point and he reasoned,

>>"The conflicting parties are unlikely to come to terms on their own, without outside intervention, as both terrorist attacks and the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories continue…the current crisis, seemingly insoluble, can be resolved, if the international group consisting of Russia, Europe, the USA, Egypt and the UN formulates compromise settlement terms and imposes them on both parties…probably, we should impose on the conflicting parties the problem of the creation of a Palestinian state – not at the expense of the Israeli state, of course. This is the sole way of resolving the problem of Israel's security, which must be one of the mandatory clauses of a future compromise agreement.”

The issue of the holy places in Israel may seem esoteric to some, but it is a feature of the Russian policy towards Israel and cannot be overlooked. This is yet another aspect of the conflict that convinces Russia of its need to be involved. The activity of the Israeli military around Bethlehem has caused strains in the Russo-Israeli relationship. Should the military activity be decreased, relations would continue to improve.

Russia’s position is in broad harmony with the United States and argues that both Israel and the Palestinian Authority should abide by the recommendations of the Mitchell Committee and the Tenet Plan. Russia supports the Middle East Peace Process and the Oslo agreements of 1993. Russia has been balanced and moderate in its dealings with both Israel and the Palestinians and it favors peace between both sides. The Russian Federation still continues to support the creation of a Palestinian State and for lasting peace in the Middle East.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Somalia
Delegate Name: Michael Avi-Yonah
School: Cranbrook Kingswood

The Palestinian question will not be solved unless Israel stops the building of illegal settlements in the West Bank and immediately ceases the building of the so-called 'seperation barrier'. Israel must stop these actions if the peace proccess is to go forward. Somalia would like to see the creation of a sovereign, democratic, and independent Palestinian state. Somalia understands the importance of national sovereignty and condemns measures taken by countries to infringe on the internal affairs of the Palestinian Authority.

Illegal settlements and the so-called seperation barrier take away the national sovereignty of the Palestinian people. UN Resolution 242 states that the Palestinian people have a right to a state in the West Bank and Gaza. Settlements in the West Bank confiscate the territory that was granted to them by the United Nations. Israel's ignoring repeated requests by this assembly and the United States to cease further building of settlements is unnaceptable. The so-called seperation barrier has divided families and villages. The 4th Geneva Convention states that reprisals against occupies persons by the occupying power are prohibited. By building a wall in the occupied territories, they have been deprived of their land and this is reprisal against their property. The International Court of Justice has found this and ruled that Israel must cease construction of this wall, yet Israel once again has decided to ignore the ICJ and had carried along with construction.

An independent Palestinian state is essential to the restoration of peace in the Middle East. Somalia supports the idea of a sovereign Palestinian state with full sovereignty over all the territories proposed as a Palestinian state by the Arab Initiative at the Beirut summit of the Arab League in 2002 and re-endorsed at the Riyadh summit of 2007.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: South Africa
Delegate Name: Mary Allison Misra
School: Cranbrook Kingswood

The current conflict in Palestine is deeply disturbing to our nation. Dissention between the nations of Palestine and Israel affect the world as a whole. The delegation of South Africa believes that the two state solution for the Palestine-Israel conflict will be the most effective resolution. In addition, certain regulations must be followed to ensure the success of the resolution.

The delegation of South Africa believes that to achieve harmony between the two the Palestinian people must be granted total independence and self-determination, universally recognized borders must be set and military tactics against each other may not be pursued. Under the two state resolution, South Africa would like to see Palestine run by the Palestinian people and without any foreign military occupance. In addition, borders must be agreed upon and recognized universally. Both Palestine and Israel need to understand that any military advances towards one another will not resolve the conflict, nor will it benefit them.

The government of South Africa would also like to stress the importance that although Palestine and Israel will be two different states under this resolution, the separation wall should not be built. As a nation once plagued by apartheid, we understand the destructive nature of partition and disunity. Clearly, the wall is not being constructed as a legitimate security measure and will only serve as a symbol of division. The construction of the wall will only counteract all measure taken to ameliorate Palestinian-Israeli relations.

The delegation of South Africa would like the United Nations (UN) to encourage the acceptance of the two state resolution by both Israel and Palestine. Also, to ensure the construction of the separation wall does not proceed.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: South Korea
Delegate Name: Victoria Sun
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Palestine, a small region of land between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River, is in an area known as the Middle East. The State of Israel and the Palestinian people have been fighting over who rightfully owns the land on the Gaza. Because the Gaza is religiously important to both groups, there have been constant arguments over who gets what portion of the land. The United Nations in the past has attempted multiple peaceful resolutions to solve the problem, but they have not been successful.

Because South Korea and the United States are allies, and the United States and Israel are allies, it is naturally assumed that South Korea and Israel are allies. This is not the case. South Korea does want to delve in too deep and get very involved in the issue of Palestine. However, South Korea is in partial support of both Palestinians and the Israeli's. South Korea would like to see the massacres in Palestine to stop, and would also like to see Palestine and Israel to come together in peace. It is hard for South Korea to take a stance on this matter when they are trying hard to solve their own problems to come together with North Korea in harmony themselves.

South Korea urges the UN to take some sort of action to try and stop the massacres in Palestine and try once again to have Israel and Palestine attempt to arrive at a peaceful conclusion in this horrible matter. South Korea hopes to see Palestinians and Israeli's live together in peace and harmony.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Sudan
Delegate Name: John Cotton
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

In the region known as Palestine over the past half a century there has been constant fighting over the rights to this land. Palestine is a small region of land between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River in the area know as the Middle East. The state of Israel and the Palestinian people cannot agree over who receives rights to the land and each very much so wants to claim ownership of the land. Both people groups have religious attachments to the land and claim it to be their home. The United Nations in the past fifty years has attempted multiple peaceful resolutions to solve the problem, but they have not been successful. The state of Israel and Palestinian people both will not agree to any resolution because both people groups want their way and only their way.

The Republic of Sudan firmly believes, because of the multiple past interventions and failures the United Nations has attempted with Palestine, the United Nations should not make it a strong priority to resolve the issue over Palestine. Sudan does not want to see a great number of the United Nations resources and efforts put into this issue. Sudan also believes because of the small region of land and the little impact the issue has around the globe, the United Nations has greater challenges and more important problems to face and conquer, these challenges being: access to safe drinking water, the pandemic flu, the Korea peninsula conflict, human rights, and climate change.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Syria
Delegate Name: Evan Rocher
School: Cranbrook Kingswood

The question of Palestine has long been a significant problem leading to quite literally thousands of severe human rights violations and horrifically low qualities of life for Palestinians living within the Palestinian Authority. These are due in large part to Israeli actions, including their numerous settlements in Palestinian territory that severely hamper local Palestinians with regards to control of local lands, which have been deemed illegal by the UN (UNSC Resolution 446). Also, the numerous military actions by Israel have significantly damaged Palestine, not only by killing many Palestinian civilians, but also in terms of destroying critical parts of Palestinian infrastructure. ( In fact, some Israeli actions within the Gaza Strip were considered war crimes by an official U.N. fact finding mission.)

The government of Syria feels that the only legitimate answer to the Palestinian question as it stands is a fully independent Palestinian state with the borders that were originally declared in U.N. resolution 181; whose government is composed of members based on the 2006 Palestinian national elections. This would allow the people of Palestine self-determination, a stated United Nations principle; which has been denied to them by the Israeli occupation. Furthermore, it is the feeling of the government of Syria that Israel must pay reparations to this Palestinian state; in return for the numerous human rights violations it has committed against the Palestinian people. These funds would be used to assist in the improvement of Palestinian infrastructure.

In conclusion, the government of Syria feels that the solution it has provided with regards to the question of Palestine is the only option for the United Nations if it wishes to continue with it’s stated goal of giving the people of the world ( in this case, the people of Palestine ) self-determination and equal rights which the Israeli occupation has long denied them.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Turkey
Delegate Name: Shamus Carey
School: Royal Oak High School

Turkey strongly believes that Isreal should not hold agression towards the palestinians in Gaza. Turkey calls for an immediate cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. Attacks that Israel have launched on Gaza are as a great act of disrespect toward Turkey by the Turkish Prime Minister. In protest to the attacks Turkey has immediately ceased to mediate in peace talks between Israel and Syria.

Turkey hopes to help reach pace on between these two opposing parties and while still maintaining good relations with both Israel and Palestine. Turkey would also agree to be a mediator if peace talks were being discussed.

Turkey believes that the territory that is Palestine should be recognised and be allowed to maintain its own border. Turkey also believes that both Israel and Palestine should begin immediate peace negotiations. Furthermore Turkey believes that there should be no restrctions on Palestines ability to use nuclear power as an energy source.

Turkey believes that no restrictions should be placed on Palestines rights as a country and that Palestine should be admitted into the United Nations as a full non-observer member.

Turkey is willing to support it's opinions fully and willing to work together with any nation also working toward it's goals. Turkey is welling to lend aid and support in times of trouble to Palestine in hopes that it will become a prospering nation and one day be able to fully sustain itself and maintain a stable economy.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Stephan Bae
School: Cranbrook Kingswood

Since the mid-twentieth century, the situation in Palestine has been a quagmire for numerous nations. Fueled by religious differences and each faction’s feeling of entitlement to the area, this situation in the past has been exceedingly difficult to manage and efforts have proven to be futile. Current tensions are further exasperated by both Hamas’ hostility and Israel’s continued settlements on the West Bank. Despite the inherent difficulties, a lasting solution to the questions surrounding Palestine is of paramount importance to allay the tensions surrounding not only the immediate region but the international community as a whole. Thus, the United Kingdom firmly believes that extensive action should be taken in order to improve relations between the warring factions and to ensure that future aggression is limited.

Admittedly, the United Kingdom has been a major influence in Palestine since the early twentieth century. Our nation’s well-intended declaration to support both factions and to fulfill each party’s desires was a major factor in causing this debacle. Despite the fact that problems have existed prior to the United Kingdom’s mandate of Palestine, these issues were exacerbated with the mandate’s termination. Currently, the United Kingdom is attempting to improve upon this situation through the United Nations.

The United Kingdom believes that over the past several decades, the situation in Palestine has continued to deteriorate and thus has become increasingly complex to resolve. The current lack of desire to achieve lasting peace in the area by the dominant parties of Hamas and the Israeli government is the most pressing issue, for international assistance is ineffective provided that the belligerent factions in the area are extremely influential and continually breed conflict. Thus, the United Kingdom first encourages the United Nations, and especially the United States, Israel’s close ally, to significantly restrict support. As plain requests for increased peace have led to backlash by the Israeli government, the most viable option available is to limit political aid in order to exhort a more amiable stance. In addition, the United Kingdom supports the Palestinians’ desire for the formation of their own small, separate state. Our nation firmly believes that Israel’s consent to this concession, essentially an act of appeasement, would decrease Hamas’s support in Palestine, for the Palestinians would possess less aversion towards Israel to utilize. These actions would consequently result in the supremacy of parties, such as Fatah, more open towards peace in the region and therefore increase negotiations. While not a definite or complete answer to the situation in Palestine, the United Kingdom supports the formation of separate states on the grounds that the execution of this action will both provide the foundation for lasting peace and be more effective than the “agreements in principle” that have previously occurred.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: United States
Delegate Name: Nicole Smith
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

The United States of America solemnly recognizes the unfortunate prevalence of violence concentrated within Israel’s borders and in particular along the Gaza Strip. Upon the United Nations’ creation of Israel in 1947, the international community, and indeed the United States, sought to facilitate peace in the region by partitioning the Palestine mandate. It quickly became apparent, and is still quite apparent more than fifty years later, that this solution would be inadequate. Today, though the borders of Israel have shifted, the international community must cope with the aftermath of deep-seated hatred and politically irresponsible leaders such as the terrorist organization Hamas.

We are currently presented with an excellent opportunity to return peace to a historically war-torn area. With Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’s laudable commitment to peace and security, the United States of America seeks to use this conference to devise a reasonable and pragmatic solution incorporating both a Jewish and Islamic state in the region. Consistent with the United States’ acclaimed pledge to find a mutually acceptable solution to the conflict in Israel, the United States urges Israel to halt all Israeli settlement into Palestinian territory and in particular into the Gaza Strip. We applaud Israel’s past efforts to stitch peace from fragments and persevere against misguided extremism, and bearing these experiences in mind, we are certain that Israel can effectively terminate settlement into Palestinian territory.

The United States pledges to responsibly move toward peace by maintaining the best interests of both Israel and the Palestinian Authority during this summit, and we encourage all nations to move forward with us in such a manner.

Respectfully Submitted,

The United States of America

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Venezuela
Delegate Name: Linas Templeton
School: Saline High School

The situation in Palestine is a complex and tricky business. on one hand there are the "israelis"- many of whom either are the decendants of or actual emigrants from europe to escape persecution, settling in what is often described as the "jewish homeland". on the other hand one has the inhabitants for the last 2000+ years, the "palestinians", people who feel that the israelis have taken their land and hold them under an apartheid-like opression for the last 60 years. The ultimate begining of this conflict on the international stage is in 1917, with the balfour declaration, stating "His Majesty's government view with favour the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people, and will use their best endeavors to facilitate the achievement of this object, it being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine, or the rights and political status enjoyed by Jews in any other country." this essentially allowed for a "jewish" state in the area of modern-day israel/palestine. in 60 years of conflict neither side has found peace. even the "camp david accords" ended up falling short of expectations, as neither have rockets ceased to fall in israel nor have the palestinians been able to live without fear.

Venezuela has traditionally had warm relations with israel, until 2006 over venezuela's opinion over the israeli-lebanese conflict of that time. relations further soured at the declaration of venezuela's support of iran's peaceful nuclear programme, and stressing that all states have the right to peaceful nuclear energy. Finally during the 2009 Gazan War venezuela cut off all diplomatic ties with israel and in april of 2009 officially recognized the Palestinian Authority as an independant state, as well as comments later on in the year stating israel's goal in exterminating the palestinian people, stating "The question is not whether the Israelis want to exterminate the Palestinians. They're doing it openly…What was it, if not genocide?". Ofcurse, it would be inhumane for Venezuela to say that israelis do not have the right to a peaceful and secure life. Venezuela recognizes this right and the right of the state of israel to exist.

Topic: Question of Palestine
Country: Vietnam
Delegate Name: Joey Lautrup
School: Mattawan High School

Fighting between Israelis and Palestinians has been continuing for too long and has become a major global issue. More parties have joined the fight and have made things all the more complicated. Because more nations are becoming involved on both sides, more and more funding is going into a war that simply needs to be stopped. Vietnam is a strong supporter of peace and believes that a solution must be made that will end the violence and distribute the Palestinian land equally. Vietnam has given much support to Palestinians throughout the years in the form of food and clothing. Israel has given us aid in our times of need. We support the fundamental national rights of the Palestinian people and support the formation of their stable government. Vietnam has no interest in taking a side, but wants to ensure the legitimate interests of all parties concerned.

Vietnam suggests that the U.N. organizes a peace treaty between Israel and Palestine. An agreement over the distribution of the Palestinian land should be pushed for between the two nations, and support should be given to the Palestinian people to build their own government. Also, the countless number of Palestinian refugees should be taken in by a peaceful neighboring country. The elimination of terrorist groups, such as Hamas, is also necessary for any true action to take place. Although there are many issues that are connected to the creation of a peaceful Palestinian state, action must be taken, for if nothing is done at all the fighting will only continue, and world peace will not be preserved.