Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America

Interactive Dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Including East Jerusalem and in Israel

As Delivered by Ambassador Michèle Taylor

Human Rights Council – 53rd Session

Thank you, Madam Vice President.

The United States remains steadfast in its support for civil society and human rights defenders worldwide. Full stop.

Madam Vice President,

The United States firmly and consistently opposes the open-ended nature of this Commission of Inquiry, which only reinforces the reputation of UN bodies as vulnerable to the actions of member states intent upon isolating and excoriating the state of Israel. This is a view that is widely shared, as seen by the growing number of co-signers on the joint statement I read earlier, already a significant increase from last year, the many country statements today that echo the same concerns, and the dissent by several states when this Commission was created before the U.S. rejoined the Council. 

I also wish to reiterate deep concern over the remarks by one of the Commissioners, echoing disturbing antisemitic tropes and questioning Israel’s right to UN membership. We unequivocally condemn antisemitism and anti-Israel bias and call on all members to do the same.

Members of Commissions of Inquiry and Fact-Finding Missions are expected to remain independent and impartial.

The United States underscores the critical need for Israelis and Palestinians to initiate steps towards peace, urging leaders to reject provocations to violence. Accountability for violent actions must be equal, irrespective of the background of the perpetrators or victims. Biased and one-sided action on the part of this Council does nothing to promote such advances. 

I thank you.