Poland in the UN

On January 28, 2026, Poland participated in the UN Security Council open debate on Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

The full statement delivered by Krzysztof Szczerski, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Poland to the UN in New York, is available below:

Mr. President,

Thank you for convening today’s debate and to the UN Deputy Special Coordinator for his valuable contribution. In my intervention, I would like to address four developments shaping the current state of play in the Middle East, which my country, Poland, continues to follow closely.

First, we stand by our commitment to a peaceful and negotiated settlement of the Israeli Palestinian conflict. Since recognizing the State of Palestine in 1988, we have consistently supported the two-State solution – Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security. 

Recently, we have taken note of President Donald Trump’s Plan for Gaza, endorsed by resolution 2803, and welcome the start of its next phase. At the same time, Poland stresses that the composition and mandate of any newly proposed peace-related mechanisms must be consistent with United Nations principles and values.

Yet, the situation on the ground remains concerning. Hamas’s disarmament is uncertain, Palestinian politics remain divided, and growing opposition within Israel to a Palestinian State complicates prospects for progress.

Also, settlement expansion in the West Bank and actions targeting UNRWA risk undermining humanitarian work and violate Israel’s obligations under the UN Charter. Poland calls for unhindered humanitarian access and will continue to cooperate closely with humanitarian partners, including non-governmental organisations as Palestine remains among our top priorities — with almost 20 million dollars in aid since 2023. Our military contingent to UNIFIL will remain committed to its peacekeeping mission, with development projects as an integral element of its contribution.

Mr. President,

Turning to Iran, Poland follows developments there with deep concern. Reports of widespread protests, arbitrary detentions, and excessive use of force are alarming. We strongly condemn any calls for expedited trials or executions of protesters, as such actions violate fundamental international human rights.

Sustained international pressure, combined with diplomatic engagement, remains essential. We urge Iranian authorities to engage in genuine dialogue with their society and to act transparently on issues related to their nuclear and missile programs, within established global frameworks. Further destabilisation of Iran, we stress, would serve no one’s interest.

Mr. President,

Poland reaffirms its support for the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the Republic of Yemen. We condemn all forms of separatism and interference by external actors and reiterate strong backing for UN-led efforts toward a comprehensive and inclusive political settlement.

Mr. President,

Finally, regarding Syria, Poland acknowledges the significant challenges facing the new authorities in Damascus while noting positive political developments. We welcome the recent lifting of sanctions by the European Union and the United States, which could foster transition and recovery.

Poland stands ready to share its transformation experience to support stabilisation, reconstruction, and inclusive governance. We are, however, concerned by renewed clashes between government forces and the Syrian Democratic Forces, and we call for swift and peaceful implementation of the recent agreement.

Thank you, Mr. President.