Ibrahim Olabi (Syria) on the situation in the Middle East - Security Council Media Stakeout

Good afternoon. I'm humbled to be here amongst friends, colleagues, chairs of regional group, the Arab group, the OIC, and countries really from across the world who could make it here on such short notice. I shall now begin with the official statement. Sovereignty is not selective. Territorial integrity is not negotiable. It is the indispensable pillar of the international system and the first line of defense against global instability. Undermine it, and the very framework that sustains peace and order crumbles. Two days ago, on the 9th of September 2026, Israeli officials entered the sovereign territory of the Syrian Arab Republic and proceeded to the summit of Mount Hermon. This action occurred amid the continued Israeli military presence and repeated incursions into Syrian territory. International law is clear. The charter of the United Nations is clear. The 1974 agreement on disengagement between Syrian and Israeli forces is equally clear. Countries are here standing with Syria today to affirm that international law, the United Nations Charter, the United Nations Security Council resolutions, and the established lines and arrangements under the 1974 agreements must be fully respected and upheld. Syria's position has also been clear. It has consistently distanced itself from the ongoing regional escalation. It has repeatedly affirmed that it will not pose a threat to any of its neighbors. This responsible approach has been repeatedly acknowledged by members of the international community. We stress that any military, political, or other action risks undermining the significant progress achieved by the Syrian Government. Progress that is vital to the international community and the Syrian people. This progress includes important steps it has taken to combat terrorism and terrorist organizations. counter the production of trafficking of captagon, handle the legacy of chemical weapons, the chemical weapons program, resolve nuclear issues, bring weapons under state control and build effective state institutions, facilitate the safe and sustainable return of displaced person and refugees, and advance economic recovery. Countries here are standing with Syria today to reaffirm their unwavering commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity of the Syrian Arab Republic. In light of all the above, and particularly at this exceptionally volatile moment, Syria's sovereignty must be protected and its stability respected. This is for the sake of its people, the region, and international peace and security. I thank you.

Thank you, colleagues. Thank you. We'll not be taking any questions at this time. Thank you very much.