Joint Statement by Security Council Elected Members on the Middle East Situation
The ten elected members of the Security Council, including Algeria, expressed their deep concern on Thursday through a joint statement regarding the escalating tensions in the Middle East, condemning the current spiral of violence.
In their statement, the elected members called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urged all parties to adhere to their commitments under international law. They reaffirmed that a diplomatic solution is the only viable path forward for resolving disputes, urging all parties to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy while ensuring the protection of civilians.
Additionally, the members expressed their full support for United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the UN, especially in light of the intense campaign against him due to his solidarity with the Palestinian people. This follows the decision by the occupying authorities to declare him “persona non grata” and prohibit his entry into the occupied Palestinian territories.
This statement was delivered by the coordinator of the elected members, the permanent representative of Guyana, during a press conference held on Thursday morning. It comes amid a deteriorating situation in the Middle East, particularly in Lebanon and the occupied Palestinian territories, following multiple assassinations carried out by the Zionist occupying forces in Lebanon and their ongoing attacks on populated areas, which constitute blatant violations of international humanitarian law.
On Thursday evening, the UN Security Council reiterated its full support for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in a separate statement. The Council members emphasized “the need for all Member States to have a productive and effective relationship with the Secretary-General,” the Council members further urged “to refrain from any actions that undermine his work and that of his office,” adding that “any decision not to engage with the UN Secretary-General or the United Nations is counterproductive.”
