UN Transcripts — https://transcripts.un.org/en/ga/80/80
General Assembly: 80th plenary meeting, 80th session — General Assembly — 16 April 2026
Language: en
Automatically generated transcript — may contain errors. Not an official United Nations record.

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GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [0:01]:

I declare open the 80th plenary meeting of the General Assembly is called to order.

The Assembly will continue its consideration of agenda item 64,

entitled "Use of the Veto",

to hear the remaining speakers in the debate.

Before proceeding further, I would like to remind delegations

of the time limit of seven minutes for statements

made on behalf of a group of states,

and five minutes for delegations speaking in their national capacity.

I thank you for your cooperation.

I now give the floor

to the representative of Ecuador.


Ecuador · José Javier De La Gasca López-Domínguez [1:32]:

President,

I would like to thank you for convening this meeting

in implementation of resolution 76/262,

whose mechanism was activated with the use of the veto in the Security Council meeting that was held on the 7th of April this year,

when there was a vote on the draft resolution on the situation in the Strait of Hormuz under the agenda item the situation in the Middle East.

I would also like to thank the President of the Security Council

for conveying the special report within the established timeframe and in line with the procedure that was begun in 2022,

which allowed the President of the General Assembly to convene this meeting in good time,

given the current moment.

President, distinguished colleagues,

whenever the procedure under the resolution is activated,

we must remember that the issue of the veto goes back to the San Francisco Conference negotiations,

and how the veto, above and beyond the fact that it is a right that only five permanent members have,

has not been used in line with the spirit that the proponents of the veto themselves had in mind.

But the activation of the mechanism as a result of the 2022 initiative also is an opportunity for us to refer to the mechanism as such,

and also on the issue on which the veto was used.

On point one, Ecuador once again affirms that this kind of meeting does contribute to transparency and accountability,

and that strengthens the role and the authority of the General Assembly as well as the link between this body and the Security Council.

At a time such as the current one in which the global geopolitical situation and the lack of trust in the multilateral system are concerning,

this mechanism strengthens the entire UN system,

as it contributes to having a broad debate within the most representative body of the UN.

Strengthening the role of the General Assembly in the domain of peace and security,

within its remit, remains key,

and it has been for 80 years.

Thus, resolution 76/262 allows us

to examine the veto that the five permanent members had in line with the right of participation that the members of the General Assembly have,

and this means that we apply a magnifying glass to the efforts and positions that member states have adopted.

Distinguished colleagues, as has been repeatedly said in the last four years,

and as has been said in this meeting,

there is still a way to improve this process further,

to focus on what is genuinely important, and that is peace and security.

And that leads me to my second point.

Ecuador always regrets the fact that the use of the veto,

particularly when there is a majority position expressed by the elected members of the Council,

which reflects the fact that, which reflects the broad position of most UN member states,

that the veto is regrettable in these circumstances.

That is why, in addition to respecting Article 27.3 of the Charter,

we cannot overlook Article 24.1, that is to say instances in which the, or the fact that the Council acts on behalf of UN members.

In addition, respecting the freedom of navigation in line with the international legal framework is a critical matter.

It is fundamental for the preservation of international peace and security,

and this has been clearly borne out in the debate that we have had in the General Assembly and Ecuador fully agrees with that.

In conclusion, my delegation recognizes the key role that Bahrain played in drafting the resolution,

and we would like to express our hope that efforts will continue that various countries have already undertaken to facilitate negotiations

that will ultimately lead to lasting peace in this region. Thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [6:25]:

I thank the representative of Ecuador.

I now give the floor to the representative of Ukraine.


Ukraine · Sergiy Kyslytsya [6:47]:

Mr. President, distinguished members,

let me at the outset express Ukraine's solidarity with the Gulf countries

and all those affected by Iran's missile and drone terror

and extend our condolences to the victims.

Ukraine aligns itself with the statement of the European Union.

At the same time, I wish to make a few additional important remarks on behalf of my country.

The Security Council has, regrettably, once again failed to act decisively

in the face of a serious threat to international peace and security.

It has failed to ensure the unblocking of the Strait of Hormuz

and safeguarding freedom of navigation as well as safe, free passage of ships.

Despite receiving 11 votes in favor, the respective draft resolution proposed by Bahrain was not adopted

because of the veto exercised by two permanent members of this Council.

This failure sends a devastating signal.

It undermines our collective efforts to guarantee the stability of global supply chains and energy security.

This is not just a stab in the back of all countries suffering directly from Iranian attacks

and relying on unimpeded shipments from the region.

Since the Strait of Hormuz is one of the most critical blood vessels of the global economy,

Iran's illegal blockade does threaten the security of the entire planet.

Tehran must not be allowed to endanger international navigation and destabilize global markets through its pirate attacks.

Mr. President, let us be honest about the broader context.

Iran is not acting alone.

It is Russia that is complicit in enabling Tehran's illegal acts and war crimes,

not just against the Gulf countries, providing Iran with deadly drones and intelligence,

but also against maritime security as such.

This complicity is the main reason why Russia once again abused its veto power

and cynically blocked the respective draft resolution of the Security Council.

We have just heard this morning the explanation by the Russian representative of the reasons why it has vetoed it.

Well, they are not really convincing.

This is pure hypocrisy, trying to portray itself as a big friend and advocate of the Global South.

Russia has de facto voted in favor of the destruction of global supply chains of critical commodities.

The steep rise of prices for fertilizers because of the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz

is not just a slap in the face of the Global South.

It is a severe blow to the underbelly of their economies.

So let us be clear, Russia has vetoed the draft resolution

just because it is the main ally of Iran and and accomplice of Tehran's ongoing illegal acts.

But apart from this malicious complicity,

there is another reason why Russia has chosen to bury this draft resolution

and choke off the freedom of navigation in Hormuz.

The reason is very simple: it is Russia that has benefited most

from the disruptions of global energy markets.

The skyrocketing prices for oil and gas have generated

extraordinary windfall revenues for Moscow.

In March alone, the blockade injected an additional nine billion US dollars

into Russia's war chest, allowing it to continue

its military invasion against Ukraine and bombing our cities like it did again this night,

murdering sixteen innocent civilians, including the heartbreaking loss of children's lives,

and injuring over one hundred persons.

So the question is very simple: why should Moscow be interested in unblocking

the Strait of Hormuz if it can further profit from the blockade at the cost

of the developing countries?

So as we see, Russia is the biggest beneficiary of this chaos in the Middle East.

So why should it stop it?

President Putin is just rubbing his hands with glee, salivating at the prospect

of additional astronomical gains in the coming months.

Mr. President, let me remind the Assembly that four years ago,

the international community faced similar vicious tactics of Russia in the Black Sea.

The Russian Navy introduced a blockade of Ukrainian ports, intentionally disrupting

global food supplies and weaponizing hunger as a tool of war.

Those actions affected not only Ukraine, but hundreds of millions of people worldwide.

This time we see a similar pattern,

but on an even broader, more brutal scale.

The Russian veto is yet another example of how this instrument is being misused

again and again and again as a tool of obstruction. Its abuse erodes trust

in the UN and weakens the entire system.

That is why Ukraine strongly supports meaningful Security Council reform,

including limitations on the use of veto in cases of aggression,

mass atrocities, and grave violations of international humanitarian law.

We also commend the General Assembly for taking a more active role

when the Council is deadlocked like today.

Distinguished delegates, let us not be deceived: it is not just Iran,

it is the axis of evil between Tehran and Moscow,

and their coordinated illegal actions in and around the Strait of Hormuz

constitute one of the biggest threats to international peace and security.

Iran must immediately cease all attacks and abandon any attempts

to block this vital maritime route. Ukraine supports all diplomatic efforts

aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation and de-escalating tensions in the Middle East.

We remain fully committed to contributing to these efforts,

including through practical support on the ground and close cooperation

with partners in the region. I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [13:31]:

I thank the representative of Ukraine.

I now give the floor to the representative of Cuba.


Cuba · Gerardo Peñalver Portal [13:52]:

Thank you, President.

President, in the current international context, the proliferation of conflicts,

coercion, the threat of use and the indiscriminate use of force are all proliferating.

The Middle East region is going through a period of profound instability

as a result of the use of the US doctrine of peace through force

and the systematic violation of the United Nations Charter.

We categorically condemn the United States and Israel's aggression against Iran.

This act, which violates the sovereignty and territorial integrity of a state,

has totally disregarded the diplomatic efforts that were ongoing. It has

left in its wake a painful toll of victims, including children,

and has clearly demonstrated the hegemonic interests of Washington and its

ally Israel, and this has had global consequences.

At such a delicate point for this region, a region that has seen

the horrors of war for decades, Cuba is in favor of dialogue,

the principle of good neighborliness and friendly relations between

Iran and Arab states, based on respecting countries' sovereignty

and territorial integrity.

We are tied to Iran and Arab nations through ties of friendship

and cooperation, and that is why we deeply regret the victims

and the losses as a result of the spiral of violence that the US

and Israel have triggered.

President, this same aggressive posture also affects our hemisphere.

The so-called Monroe Doctrine has clearly been used to violate

the fact that our region is a zone of peace. Cuba has been

denouncing the aggressive programs that the US government has been

speaking about. We have warned about the serious consequences

of the United States' irresponsible behavior for the region

and the world. The US has threatened to militarily attack Cuba

and has publicly declared its intentions to oust the government.

It is claiming that this supposed failure of Cuba's economic model

is the reason for this. How can it therefore explain the economic war

that it has waged for more than six decades through its embargo?

The cruel economic, financial embargo by the United States against Cuba

and the use of unilateral coercive measures, and which have only been

ratcheted up recently with the latest executive order signed by Trump

on the twenty-ninth of January to try to limit any kind of import

of fuel into Cuba, has only had further grave impacts for Cuban families.

To justify its aggressive posture, the United States is trying to fabricate

arguments and has even used even more dangerous lies in recent weeks.

Cuba represents absolutely no threat to the national security

of the United States nor any other country. Cuba is a country of peace.

We do not promote war and we do not attack any other nation.

We are in favor of solidarity and cooperation, as the entire world knows.

President, we must urgently redouble efforts to curb this aggressive rhetoric.

We call upon the General Assembly and the Security Council to fulfill

their responsibilities to uphold international peace and security.

We stress the value of multilateralism rather than the logic

of confrontation and force. We are in favor of a fair, democratic

and equitable international order, where the philosophy of looting

and war are cast aside and rather we opt for dialogue

and cooperation as the genuine rule of the game. Thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [17:28]:

I thank the representative of Cuba.

I now give the floor to the representative of Romania.


Romania · Cornel Feruță [18:40]:

Thank you, Mr. President.

Mr. President, the authority and the efficacy of the Security Council

represent a matter of concern for the entire UN membership.

The veto entails significant political and moral obligations,

and its exercise must consistently reflect the principles and purposes

of the United Nations, and this is in both the spirit and letter of the Charter.

The seriousness of the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and its impact

at regional and global level is such a case in point where our commitment

to principles and solidarity is all but laid bare. Because of the wide-reaching

impact of the issues at the heart of the resolution, it can and should be

discussed by the wider UN membership. It is thus regrettable

that the draft resolution presented to the Security Council on seventh April twenty twenty-six

by Bahrain, also on behalf of Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia

and the United Arab Emirates, could not be adopted due to the use of two vetoes.

The adoption of the resolution tabled by Bahrain would have conveyed

an unequivocal message at a critical juncture about the determination

of the Council to exercise, in line with its Charter obligations, its primary

responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security

and for ensuring the safe and unimpeded flow of maritime traffic First of all,

pursuant to Resolution 2817, which should be fully implemented

and which reaffirmed that the exercise of navigational rights and freedoms by merchant and commercial vessels must be respected,

it would have renewed an unequivocal expression of solidarity with the states of the region and beyond affected by the current disruption.

It would have also reinforced the standard under international law on all oceans and seas

that the freedom of navigation and the right of transit passage through vital shipping lanes

should not be weaponized during conflict.

It is the Council's responsibility, and indeed a common responsibility, to not allow the bending of a fundamental principle of international law,

which is the freedom of navigation, to be used as a weapon, as we have seen in Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz

and previously in the Black Sea in the context of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.

The acceptance of such actions creates the risk of a recurrence elsewhere, and this must be avoided.

Mr. President, all seas should remain free, stable, and safe.

We must act to ensure that international law is upheld and respected on all oceans and seas, with the UNCLOS at its core.

Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran to an unhindered maritime traffic should be our shared priority.

Free and unimpeded maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz must resume for the energy and food markets worldwide to return to stability and predictability.

And we commend the mediation efforts that led to a ceasefire agreement and prevented further escalation.

We reiterate our solidarity with our GCC partners and Jordan in a difficult moment.

Romania will continue to support de-escalation and efforts aimed at ensuring the return to the freedom of navigation in the strait,

in coordination with regional and international partners.

Romania remains committed and stands ready to contribute constructively to efforts aimed at easing tensions and achieving a sustainable peace in the region.

We take this opportunity to once again underscore that the Charter's provisions, reinforced by the broad and evolving body of international law,

provide the tools needed to address the full range of threats to international peace and security.

It is therefore both appropriate and necessary to direct attention to the use of the veto in the Security Council

and to consider how the considerable political and negotiating leverage it represents can be channeled towards constructive compromise rather than entrenched deadlock.

And if the deadlock persists, we must be ready to collectively support credible action through other channels, such as the General Assembly.

Thank you very much, Mr. President.


Switzerland · Pascale Baeriswyl [22:45]:

I thank the representative of Romania.

I now give the floor to the representative of Greece.


Greece · Evangelos Sekeris [23:00]:

Mr. President,

allow me to start by saying that Greece aligns itself with the statement delivered earlier by the European Union

and wishes to add the following remarks in its national capacity.

Freedom of navigation constitutes a fundamental pillar of international peace, security, and economic prosperity.

It has been acknowledged as one of the oldest and most recognizable principles of international law,

enshrined in the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea, which sets out the universal and unified legal framework

within which all activities in the oceans and seas must be carried out.

Greece, as a leading maritime nation, remains profoundly committed to upholding maritime security and freedom of navigation

in accordance with international law, as reflected in UNCLOS.

It is in this context that Greece voted in favor of the resolution presented by Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar,

Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, a resolution which underlines the importance of safeguarding transit passage

of commercial and merchant vessels in accordance with international law through the Strait of Hormuz,

one of the world's most critical maritime routes and a vital artery for international trade and global economic prosperity.

Mr. President,

the current regional conflict has imminent repercussions not only for the Gulf region, but for all our nations.

Greece expresses her steadfast solidarity with the GCC partners

and strongly condemns the illegal and unprovoked missile and drone attacks by Iran

against the countries of the Gulf region, including civilian infrastructure and critical energy installations.

Greece remains deeply concerned as well of the continuous disruptions to global energy and agricultural supplies

through this vital maritime corridor with imminent and unprecedented effects, including food and medicine supply shortages,

which are felt by the entire international community, especially the most vulnerable.

We further unequivocally condemn any unjustified attacks against international commercial shipping,

which endanger the safety of innocent seafarers in violation of international law.

The lives of seafarers and safe commercial shipping must be respected in all circumstances.

It is regrettable that despite intense consultations and the shared understanding of the importance of maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz,

the Security Council was unable to reach consensus and adopt a resolution on this important matter.

Mr. President,

Greece welcomes the ceasefire agreement reached by the United States and Iran,

calls for an urgent cessation of hostilities in Lebanon as well,

and commends regional partners for their commitment to mediation efforts.

De-escalation of hostilities and the full cessation of attacks in the region are essential to create the necessary conditions for diplomatic engagement,

with a view to achieving a sustainable and lasting peace and solution to this conflict. I thank you.


Switzerland · Pascale Baeriswyl [26:05]:

I thank the representative of Greece.

I now give the floor to the representative of Slovenia.


Slovenia · Samuel Žbogar [26:20]:

Mr. President,

I thank you for convening today's debate.

Slovenia aligns with the statement delivered by the European Union earlier.

This organization has been under considerable pressure and criticism in recent years.

Supposedly, it is not fulfilling its mandate.

And yet, for each conflict that leads to the loss of civilian lives,

the global public turns to the United Nations, that is to the Security Council, for solutions,

for hope.

The Security Council can prevent conflicts

or provide political support to peace processes.

It can authorize peace operations

or agree on coercive measures.

That is, if its members take their Charter responsibility and expectations of the general membership seriously.

Yet too often, we are witnessing a Security Council that is paralyzed when action is most required,

failing to agree to protect, to even react.

We must recall that the veto power was never intended to operate beyond the bounds of international law.

Preventing the adoption of a Security Council resolution that seeks to put an end to serious breaches of international law

stands in stark defiance of the purposes and principles of the Charter.

And this is the reason we are meeting today.

The Council failed to take a stand with regard to the blocking of the Strait of Hormuz,

a critical artery of the global economy.

The region of the Gulf and the wider Middle East is on fire.

Conflicts are spreading across the region representing a threat not only to regional, but to international peace and security.

Civilians, including children, and civilian infrastructure have been targeted without a slight remorse.

Territorial integrity, sovereignty, and political independence of the Gulf countries and Jordan have been flagrantly violated

by the Islamic Republic of Iran without provocation from their side.

Slovenia regrets the inability of the UN Security Council to respond decisively

to weeks of armed attacks of the United States and Israel against Iran and to threats with annihilation,

to the Iranian unprovoked attacks against its Gulf neighbors,

to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and disruption of maritime security,

to Israeli attacks on Lebanon,

causing casualties among civilians and peacekeepers and the destruction of civilian infrastructure,

and to continuing violence in the Palestinian occupied territory.

A complete silence of the Security Council against these violations of international law and the UN Charter.

Ladies and gentlemen, conflicts cannot be resolved through military means alone.

And the issues of Iranian nuclear program or blockage of the Strait of Hormuz are no exception.

Diplomacy must be given a chance. The ceasefire, although fragile, must hold.

Peaceful nations of the Gulf must be protected.

In this regard, Slovenia commends the initiatives of Pakistan and other regional partners for their tireless mediation efforts.

We urge them not to stop pushing for diplomacy. A diplomatic solution.

The Security Council itself should reflect how best to support efforts of the mediators.

As the trust-building exercise continues, we call on all parties to exercise

the utmost restraint, to respect international law, and to ensure freedom of navigation.

Ladies and gentlemen, the region needs a lasting ceasefire.

The people of Middle East need peace.

The credibility of the Security Council is not measured by the number of meetings it holds,

but by its ability to act when it matters.

I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [30:42]:

I thank the representative of Slovenia.

I now give the floor to the representative of Bulgaria.


Bulgaria · EU · Lachezara Stoeva [1:37:00]:

Thank you, Chair.

Bulgaria aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union,

and I would like to add a few remarks in our national capacity.

Bulgaria regrets that once again the veto power has been used in the Security Council.

At the same time, we welcome today's debate on the veto initiative,

which provides an important opportunity to present views on a matter of high importance to international peace and security.

In this context, Bulgaria reaffirms its strong support for the veto initiative

in line with General Assembly resolution 76/262,

and values the role of the General Assembly in considering situations following the use of the veto.

Bulgaria expresses its solidarity with the countries of the Gulf region affected by the recent escalation

and reiterates its strong support for their sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security.

We condemn attacks against civilian and critical infrastructure and commercial shipping,

which constitute serious violations of international law and pose significant risks to regional and global security.

Bulgaria supported United Nations Security Council resolution 2817,

which sends a clear message by the international community in defense of freedom of navigation and regional stability.

Bulgaria also joined the declaration adopted within the International Maritime Organization,

which highlights the severe impact of the crisis on shipping and seafarers

and underscores the need for coordinated international action to safeguard maritime safety and integrity of global supply chains.

The preservation of maritime security and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz is of critical importance.

The current situation is increasingly evolving into a broader economic and trade crisis with serious global implications,

including disruptions to trade flows, risk to food security, rising inflation driven by energy prices,

and a slowdown in global economic growth.

In this regard, Bulgaria underlines the urgent need to restore conditions for safe and free passage through the Strait of Hormuz

in full respect of international law.

De-escalation and restraint are essential to prevent further deterioration of regional security

and to create the necessary space for diplomatic engagement aimed at achieving a sustainable political solution.

Bulgaria further stresses the importance of full compliance with international humanitarian law by all parties.

The protection of civilians, civilian infrastructure, United Nations peacekeepers, and humanitarian personnel must be ensured at all times.

We remain convinced that only sustained and good faith diplomatic efforts can address the underlying issues.

We therefore encourage all parties to engage constructively in pursuit of a comprehensive and lasting settlement

with a view to ensuring durable peace and stability across the Middle East.

I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [4:30:00]:

I thank the representative of Bulgaria.

The next speaker is the representative of Chile.


Chile · Paula Narváez Ojeda [5:37:00]:

President.

We would like to thank you for convening this meeting of the General Assembly in the context of resolution 76/262,

which increases the accountability of the Security Council as it allows the General Assembly to examine decisions

that are of relevance to international peace and security, thus reinforcing the role of the General Assembly in such matters.

We would like to make our position clear: the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and any measure to restrict

the freedom of navigation there is incompatible with international law.

Chile underscores that no state should obstruct an international waterway; it violates the freedom of navigation

which must be upheld at all times.

Chile is deeply concerned to see the global nature of this crisis because this has had repercussions

on global energy and food markets as well as the supply of critical products, which is a matter of grave concern to developing countries.

We are also concerned about the fate of seafarers in the vessels held within the Strait.

It is critical that efforts are made to de-escalate the situation as soon as possible through diplomacy

so as to re-establish normality.

President.

The inability of the Council to adopt a resolution on this crisis can lead to justified frustrations

about the use of the veto. We see that the veto has not helped to prevent conflicts; on the contrary,

it has hampered efforts to resolve crises and it has eroded the credibility of the multilateral system.

Chile acknowledges how complex it is to make headway, but this should not detract from the urgent need to do so.

We must ensure that the use of the veto is limited as much as possible, particularly in the case of mass atrocities

in line with the initiative put forward by France and Mexico. We think this is part of a moral imperative,

particularly when it is a matter of protecting civilians.

Extending the veto to new members of the Council would only further deepen this problem.

The use of the veto should be seen as a responsibility and not a privilege.

When the Council is not able to uphold its responsibility to protect international peace and security,

the General Assembly must step in in line with what the Charter clearly says.

Chile remains fully committed to multilateralism and to the need to work together to address the challenges

such as those that we are addressing today.

We call on all parties to refrain from adopting measures that impede freedom of navigation

and to engage in diplomacy. Thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [8:04:00]:

I thank the representative of Chile.

The next speaker is Lebanon.


Lebanon · GCC · Hadi Hachem [9:21:00]:

Mr. President.

Lebanon stresses the importance of full respect for the principles of international law and the United Nations Charter.

It is important to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states and safeguard the freedom of navigation

as per the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and as per international law.

We welcome the ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran. We commend mediation efforts,

especially by Pakistan.

We hope that these efforts would lead to a comprehensive and lasting agreement,

especially following the failure by the Security Council to adopt the resolution tabled by Bahrain on behalf of the GCC

and Jordan on the Strait of Hormuz.

Lebanon condemns Iranian attacks against Iraq, Jordan, and GCC countries

and against the sovereignty of these brotherly countries. We condemn the unacceptable threat to its security and stability.

Mr. President, Lebanon welcomes the


Lebanon · Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants · Abdallah Bou Habib [40:00]:

The declaration by the US President Donald Trump

a ceasefire in Lebanon for 10 days

starting from this evening.

We highly value the efforts

personally made by Mr. Trump

to respond to this fundamental Lebanese requirement

or demand since February.

We ask or we thank all brotherly countries for their efforts

in support of Lebanon. We are confident that these efforts will continue to maintain

our gains and to build on our gains in the upcoming phase

in order to pave the way for sustainable solutions and lasting solutions. What we've achieved today proves that diplomacy and dialogue can indeed lead to

solutions that can never be achieved by war.

Mr. President, Lebanon and its people,

as a result of the violence, has endured a lot and paid a heavy price.

More than 2,200 people were killed

and more than 7,000 Lebanese people were injured.

Israel has targeted humanitarian staff, the Lebanese forces, medical staff,

UNIFIL forces, the Red Cross staff, critical infrastructure, hospitals, health facilities, and schools.

Israel has destroyed large swathes of buildings

and homes, and it has forcibly displaced more than 1 million Lebanese citizens. It has occupied Lebanese territories and threatened to change

the borders, and it has been trying to undermine the credibility of the Lebanese government. Mr. President, we

do not want wars to repeat to get repeated and we do not want

the plight of today to turn into tragedies for upcoming generations. We do not want Lebanon to be an arena to settle scores. Today, we

have an opportunity, an opportunity for Lebanon, an opportunity for the security and stability of the region. As

his excellency the President of Lebanon has indicated, he stressed that we will

continue to engage in negotiations according to his initiative that started today. The first phase of this initiative started today. The

first phase is a ceasefire. Today, we are also before a duty.

Israel has a duty to respect the declaration by Mr. Trump and has to abide by this declaration. It has

a legal duty to respect the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the borders of Lebanon that are recognized internationally. It must

withdraw from all territories that is controlling. Mr. President, we renew our thanks to the United

States of America and all our partners. Today, more than ever, the international community

is invited to support the Lebanese government that is insisting on extend its authority over all its territories. It's insisting

on going ahead with implementing its sovereign plans and its reforms to rebuild its institutions to respond to the aspirations of its people.

The government is the sole representative of Lebanon and the Lebanese people and it's the sole

body that can negotiate on behalf of the Lebanese people. I thank you, Mr. President.


France · President of the Security Council · Nicolas de Rivière [42:15]:

Thank you very much.

The next speaker is Latvia.


Latvia · Minister of Foreign Affairs · Baiba Braže [42:21]:

Thank you, Mr. President.

The ongoing crisis in the Middle East threatens international peace and security,

with wide-ranging consequences affecting us all around the globe.

It is therefore deeply regrettable that a positive outcome was not reached on the resolution submitted by Bahrain,

due to the vetoes of two permanent members.

Latvia remains committed to upholding international law and voted in favor of the resolution

in our capacity as an elected member of the Security Council.

Only a month ago, the Security Council adopted resolution 2817,

co-sponsored and supported by Latvia alongside an unprecedented number of countries.

In it, the Council called upon Iran to refrain from interfering with international navigation.

Yet in the days and weeks that have followed, Iran has doubled down and effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz,

shocking the global economy and once again proving the failure of and refusal by the Iranian regime

to comply with its obligations under international law.

Mr. President, we must work towards coordinated efforts to protect critical maritime routes

and to uphold the binding provisions of resolution 2817.

Maritime security and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz are essential,

in full compliance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Iran cannot use an international waterway as a bargaining chip and hold the global economy hostage.

It is a dangerous precedent which we cannot allow or normalize.

Supply chains are being disrupted, global energy prices have risen sharply,

and acute food insecurity around the globe is growing at an alarming rate.

These and other harmful consequences are affecting those most vulnerable the hardest.

Mr. President, obstructing a resolution designed to ensure maritime security

and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz is profoundly troubling.

The deliberate efforts by Russia especially to shield its ally Iran

illustrate a clear pattern of cooperation between these malign actors and against the international rules-based order.

Therefore, while the vetoes casted were somewhat shocking

as Iran continues to violate international law and wreak havoc in the global economy, they are not surprising.

Iran has materially supported the aggression of Russia against Ukraine,

and in exchange, Russia continues to aid the regime politically,

as well as providing intelligence and military technology that enables Iran to carry out attacks.

Even as the regime was slaughtering its own citizens when they pursued the most basic of freedoms,

that of peaceful protest, Russia did not waver in its misplaced sympathies.

The fact that we are debating these vetoes as Iran has been attacking civilians in the Gulf,

with the same weapons it has been supplying to Russia to attack civilians in Ukraine, is striking and tragically ironic.

We should all reflect on this.

Mr. President, finally, allow me to reiterate our sincere solidarity with our partners in the region

in the face of unprovoked attacks by the Iranian regime against civilians and civilian infrastructure,

which we categorically condemn. The welcome ceasefire must hold,

and further good-faith dialogue is urgently needed. We will continue to support a sustainable solution

that ensures that Iran never acquires a nuclear weapon and that the regime ceases its destabilizing activities

in the region and beyond. I thank you.


France · President of the Security Council · Nicolas de Rivière [45:08]:

Thank you very much.

The next speaker is Argentina.


Argentina · Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship · Gerardo Werthein [45:14]:

Thank you, President.

Argentina is deeply concerned about the threat represented by the situation in Iran

for peace, stability, and security around the world, as well as for freedom of navigation

and the normal functioning of international trade. It jeopardizes the global economy,

and that is why we're in favor of a swift solution to this situation. Argentina also unequivocally condemns

Iran's attacks on Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the UAE, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, and Qatar.

And that is why we co-sponsored resolution 2817 of the Security Council

and also at the International Maritime Organization as well.

President, Argentina has suffered directly from the regime and the terrorism

that it has promoted and financed in the region and beyond. My country suffered two brutal terrorist attacks,

one in 1992 against the Israeli embassy and another in 1994 against the AMIA,

both in Buenos Aires. This led to the death of some 100 people

and it seriously damaged the political and social fabric of Argentina for decades.


Argentina · Ricardo Lagorio [50:00]:

We have called for the

Interpol red alerts against those

who have been found guilty of these crimes

to be brought to justice.

In April 2024, Argentine justice

determined the responsibility of the Iranian regime

in carrying out these two attacks,

and currently this is something that is being pursued in absentia.

In addition to this, we've also seen that the citizens of Iran

have seen major violations of their human rights.

That is why we included the

Islamic Revolutionary Guard in our registers as a terrorist organization,

and we fully support the Iranian people in their aspiration to live in freedom.

We have seen that Iran has tried to destabilize the region.

Argentina wishes to see an Iran that respects the freedom and human rights of its people.

President,

member states are closely paying attention to the ongoing peace talks

and the reiterated diplomatic efforts undertaken by the international community,

in particular the United States.

However, when it comes to the nuclear chapter in those talks,

Iran has not shown the necessary transparency on its nuclear program,

nor on its future intentions,

nor has it provided legal access that is required by the IAEA to inspect nuclear facilities.

That is why we hope that Iran will cooperate and will allow inspectors in

in regard for international standards.

Finally, Argentina reaffirms the importance of promoting regional stability,

to consolidate the international non-proliferation regime,

to guarantee the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz,

and to build lasting peace in line with international law.

I thank you.


Slovenia · Samuel Žbogar [51:36]:

I thank Argentina and I now give the floor to Kazakhstan.


Kazakhstan · Akan Rakhmetullin [52:45]:

Mr. President, Kazakhstan remains deeply concerned

by the recent developments in the Middle East

and the risks they pose to regional and global stability.

The recent vote in the Security Council underscores the need

to find a balanced and mutually acceptable solution to this complex issue.

In line with our consistent foreign policy,

we firmly believe that there is no alternative to peaceful settlement.

All disputes must be resolved exclusively through dialogue,

diplomacy, and respect for the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter.

As President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev,

has recently once again emphasized,

diplomacy and constructive dialogue remain the only reliable instruments

for achieving lasting peace and stability.

In this regard, we welcome the recent agreement on a ceasefire

and truce between the parties.

We view this development as an important and encouraging step

that creates an opportunity to move the situation into a political and diplomatic track.

Kazakhstan expresses its hope that the ceasefire will be sustained

and further strengthened in the period ahead.

For Kazakhstan, the countries of the region are close and friendly partners.

We sincerely wish to see peace, stability, and prosperity restored across the Middle East.

We also support the ongoing mediation efforts aimed at facilitating dialogue between the parties.

In this context, we note the constructive role played by a number of countries,

particularly Pakistan, in promoting de-escalation and encouraging engagement.

As noted by my President, Kazakhstan supports all initiatives

aimed at reducing tensions and building trust,

and remains hopeful that the current diplomatic efforts will lead to a long-term and sustainable outcome.

Kazakhstan stands ready to contribute to peace efforts,

including by offering a platform for dialogue in our country.

In conclusion, we call on all parties to maintain restraint,

preserve the current momentum towards de-escalation,

and continue engagement in good faith.

I thank you.


Slovenia · Samuel Žbogar [54:44]:

I thank the representative of Kazakhstan and I now give the floor to France.


France · President of the Security Council · Nicolas de Rivière [55:28]:

Mr. President,

on the 11th of March last, the Security Council adopted resolution 2817,

which was co-sponsored by the vast majority of states gathered in this hall,

136 states.

Resolution 2817, which France supported,

expressed the solidarity of the international community with the Gulf countries and Jordan

by condemning the unjustifiable strikes carried out by Iran against those countries,

which had neither attacked nor threatened it.

The resolution called for an end to attacks against civilian infrastructure,

including water, oil, and gas facilities,

in order to protect civilian populations and the future of the region.

Resolution 2817 also recalled that rights and freedoms of navigation

in the Strait of Hormuz must be respected.

On the 7th of April, France,

in line with its support for resolution 2817, voted in favor of the draft resolution

on the Strait of Hormuz, which was presented by Bahrain,

because we consider that the text contained useful elements to help ensure,

in compliance with international law, freedom of navigation in the Strait.

We thank Bahrain for the consultation efforts undertaken during the negotiations of this draft.

We regret that two members of the Council, by using their veto,

prevented the adoption of a text addressing an issue that is essential

for the maintenance of international peace and security.

Mr. President, for several weeks now,

Iran has engaged in a de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

France has condemned the attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait and in the Gulf,

and has expressed its concern regarding the risks of mining the Strait.

Disruption of the Strait of Hormuz undermines the stability of the global economy

by threatening international supplies of energy and fertilizer.

Developing countries and the most vulnerable populations

are those that bear the heaviest consequences of this.

The blockade also constitutes a blatant violation of the law of the sea,

as do any projects aimed at establishing a management of passage through the Strait

that would be detrimental to international law and the stability of the region.

Mr. President,

the draft resolution that was vetoed twice on the 7th of April

encouraged strictly defensive measures to secure the Strait of Hormuz

without entering into a logic of escalation.

The draft resolution also contained messages of de-escalation

and support for diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region.

It is regrettable that two permanent members of the Council

who claim to be committed to the peaceful settlement of disputes cast vetoes over these provisions.

In addition, the draft resolution encouraged states to coordinate their efforts

to establish initiatives to secure maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz,

for example, through defensive escort missions.

France regrets that this provision was not adopted.

France calls for the unconditional and immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz,

without controls or tolls.

We are working with the United Kingdom and our international partners

to establish a strictly defensive multinational mission aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation

in the Strait when conditions permit, and as is already allowed under international law.

Mr. President,

the weeks of conflict that have just elapsed have considerably increased instability

in the Middle East and the suffering of civilians.

The region needs a general de-escalation and a lasting ceasefire upheld by all parties.

This ceasefire must include Lebanon as of now.

The ceasefire announcement of 10 days is an excellent news,

it needs to be now implemented on the ground.

In this context, we also welcome the launch this week in Washington,

under the auspices of the United States, of direct talks

Talks between Israel and Lebanon.

We invite both parties to pursue them

with a view to achieving as soon as possible a cessation of hostilities

and then a just peace respectful of Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity

and take into account Israel's security concerns.

Direct negotiations can help build lasting peace

between the two countries and in the region as a whole.

We also call on the United States and Iran

to continue the negotiations initiated in Islamabad

in order to avoid any further escalation.

France's position has been consistent for more than 20 years.

Military means cannot provide a viable and lasting response to the threats posed by Iran

to its regional environment and to international security,

whether with regard to its nuclear program, its ballistic program,

or its regional destabilization activities.

These issues can only be resolved through diplomacy and within the framework of international law.

France remains ready to contribute to efforts in this direction.

I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:00:53]:

I thank the representative of France.

I now give the floor to the representative of India.


India [1:01:26]:

Mr. President,

since the outbreak of the conflict in Iran and the Gulf region on the 28th of February 2026,

India had expressed deep concern and urged all states to exercise restraint,

avoid escalation, and prioritize safety of civilians.

We have urged all states to promote dialogue and diplomacy

and de-escalation of tensions and to purposefully address underlying issues.

We have also called for respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states.

An aspect of particular concern for India for its energy and economic security

relates to commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

India has deplored the fact that commercial shipping was made a target of military attacks in this conflict.

The precious lives of Indian seafarers aboard ships have been lost during the course of the conflict.

We reiterate that the targeting of commercial shipping and endangering innocent civilian crew members

or otherwise impeding the freedom of navigation and commerce in the Strait of Hormuz are unacceptable.

International law in this regard must be fully respected.

We strongly urge that safe and unimpeded freedom of navigation and global commerce

through the Strait of Hormuz be restored at the earliest.

I thank you, Mr. President.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:02:30]:

I thank the representative of India.

I now give the floor to the representative of Malta.


Malta [1:03:03]:

Thank you, Mr. President.

Malta aligns itself with the European Union statement and the joint statement

of the UNCLOS Pioneers, Fiji, Jamaica, and Singapore.

I make this statement in our national capacity.

Mr. President, we meet today in accordance with the veto initiative,

which Malta was very proud to co-sponsor.

Notwithstanding the many challenges the United Nations faces,

it remains essential for the General Assembly to debate the use of the veto.

Malta supported the draft resolution put before the Security Council.

We believe it was tabled in good faith in response to attacks against Gulf countries,

serious risks to maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz,

and the broader destabilizing impact on civilians across the region and beyond.

We also recognize the legitimate security concerns raised by partners in the region,

including the need to address threats posed by missile and drone attacks.

While we would have wished to see the resolution adopted,

and we continue to express concern at the use of the veto,

we believe that our focus should remain on advancing concrete steps towards de-escalation and peace.

When the veto was cast, several delegations outlined possible pathways forward.

These must now be translated into action.

As a priority, the war in Iran must come to an end,

including through efforts that address the sources of regional instability

and ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

In this regard, Malta underscores the importance of upholding the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea,

including the right of transit passage through international straits

and the need to ensure the safe and unimpeded flow of maritime traffic.

It is equally important to address the security concerns of states affected by ongoing attacks.

We also commend ongoing efforts by partners, including Pakistan,

to promote dialogue and de-escalation and encourage all parties to continue engaging in good faith.

We further support the role of the United Nations, including efforts led by the Secretary-General,

in advancing dialogue and helping create the conditions for peaceful resolution.

While we welcome the ceasefire agreed earlier today,

there must also be a negotiated end to military operations in Lebanon,

alongside strengthened support to Lebanese state institutions to ensure state control over arms.

Malta also strongly condemns the attacks against UNIFIL peacekeepers.

More broadly, while complex challenges persist, diplomacy grounded in dialogue

and mutual security remains the only sustainable path forward.

Mr. President, Malta will continue to advocate for the peaceful settlement of disputes

and to condemn attacks against civilians.

Bringing this war to an end remains an urgent priority to prevent further regional escalation and human suffering.

Ultimately, it is dialogue, not further escalation, that will pave the way out of this crisis.

Malta stands ready to play its part in support of peace and stability. I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:05:33]:

I thank the representative of Malta.

I now give the floor to the representative of Israel.


Israel · Gilad Erdan [1:06:06]:

Thank you, Mr. President.

The Iranian regime is the world's leading state sponsor of terrorism.

Now, it is bringing that same playbook into the global economy.

What we are seeing now is very simple.

They are trying to choke the Strait of Hormuz and turn it into a weapon.

They block ships, they threaten, then they offer shady deals.

Pay and you pass.

Refuse and you are stopped.

This is not trade.

This is economic terrorism.

This is ransom.

This is piracy 2026.

The question before us today is will the world give in?

Iran's position is not ambiguous.

Its own Foreign Ministry spokesperson said, and I quote,

"We will continue to charge a fee for the safe passage of ships."

Those are not our words.

They are theirs.

They are in violation of international law.

So let me ask,

what right does Iran think it has?

Who gave it this authority?

This is not their waterway.

You know, we all know about the Panama Canal, the Suez Canal.

They were built and are managed by states.

The Strait of Hormuz is different.

The strait is in international waters,

and Iran does not get to decide who passes.

Let us understand what is at stake.

Around 20% of the world's oil passes through the strait every single day.

To our colleagues in Europe, this is not a distant problem.

It is in your backyard.

Less gas means higher prices and more pressure across your economies.

To our friends in Asia, for some of you,

nearly half of your oil depends on this route.

When it is disrupted, factories slow, output is hit.

And to those who think this does not affect your country, think again.

Ships are being forced to sail around Africa.

Africa.

Adding up to two weeks

to delivery times.

Insurance costs have surged by

as much as 300%.

Trade is slowing.

And when energy prices rise,

food prices rise.

This does not stay in the Middle East.

It spreads.

It's global.

Diplomacy is always the preferred option.

Diplomacy was offered.

The ball was in Iran's court.

What was asked for?

No nuclear weapons,

no uranium enrichment,

no funding for terrorists,

restrictions on its ballistic missile production.

Iran said no to everything.

And instead, it escalated at sea

and across the region.

And today we are here to discuss the resolution.

A resolution to reopen the strait

that was put before the Security Council.

Weeks,

weeks of drafting,

back and forth.

We all followed it.

Every time the text came back, it was weaker.

Line by line, cut.

Word by word, softened.

Key parts removed.

References to Chapter VII

disappeared.

No enforcement.

No consequences.

Strong language watered down.

No real pressure on Iran.

But even after all the compromises and negotiations,

this diluted resolution was vetoed.

Let me be clear what that means.

When you block action like this,

you are not neutral.

You are standing with this terrorist regime.

We call on the Security Council

to adopt a meaningful resolution.

One that is clear, strong, enforceable.

A resolution that demands immediate end

to Iran's nuclear program,

restriction of the ballistic missiles,

and the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz

to lawful navigation for all,

for everyone.

Mr. President,

while the Security Council fails to act,

some countries are hiding behind closed doors,

cutting deals with this regime.

So let me address this directly here today

in this Assembly.

I ask

Ambassador Kong,

the Permanent Representative of China,

what agreement did you sign

to get your ships through the Strait of Hormuz?

I ask the

Pakistani representative,

Ambassador Ahmad,

you have admitted that there was a deal.

Maybe you will share it with us.

What were the terms of that deal?

Where is the agreement?

And the representative

of France,

Ambassador Bonnafont,

according to the media,

on April 3rd, a French-owned vessel crossed the strait.

Others are stopped the same day,

but that ship was not stopped, it went through.

So the questions we all have for you is,

how much did you pay Iran?

Vous avez payé l'Iran combien?

Combien? How much? Show us the check, the transfer.

How much money you paid them for that vessel?

When you give in to blackmail,

you don't stop the bully.

You empower them.

You pay once and the price goes up.

You pay again and it never stops.

Last week we heard reports of Iran charging

$1 million per vessel.

This week,

2 million.

Let's call it what it is.

Extortion.

Next week what it will be?

5 million?

10 million?

When does it end?

This is not just about money.

Every deal gives Iran more power.

Every deal rewards threats.

You are not paying for passage.

You are paying with your principles.

Mr. President,

this is a test of whether we stand up or give in.

We have seen this before.

As Winston Churchill said,

an appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile,

hoping it will eat him last.

We cannot make that mistake.

You do not pay pirates.

You do not reward blackmail.

And you do not let piracy 2026

run the global economy.

Because if we give in, it will not

stop here.

Mr. President,

Israel will defend itself.

We will safeguard our security.

And we have proven in the past that when it comes

to our security,

our freedom,

our independence, we will never

compromise.

We will do whatever is necessary

to protect our people.

Thank you, Mr. President.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:15:34]:

I thank the representative of Israel.

I now give the floor to the representative of Spain.


Spain · Héctor Gómez Hernández [1:15:55]:

President.

Spain aligns itself with the statement of the European Union.

We welcome the convening of this discussion

after the use of the veto by the Russian Federation and China

on the 7th of April

at the Council's session on

maintaining international peace and security

and peace and security in the Middle East.

Spain regrets the use of the veto at that meeting.

We support all initiatives to limit the use of the veto,

such as the ACT code of conduct

or the French-Mexican initiative

in the case of mass atrocities.

This in part of the reform of the Security Council

and ultimately to promote the elimination of the veto.

We're at a critical juncture in the Middle East

with global repercussions. There is no military

alternative to a diplomatic solution to all

these issues.

We call on the parties to respect their obligations

under international law and the

ceasefire that has been agreed, including

with Lebanon.

This window of opportunity must be used

to reach an agreement that puts an end definitively

to the violence. Spain is firmly committed

to the United Nations Charter and international law,

and we stress the centrality of the universal principles

contained in the UN Charter.

This includes the peaceful resolution of conflicts

and the prohibition of the use of force.

This in addition to the relevant resolutions

of this Security Council on this issue,

and also the law of the sea.

Maritime security is critical for global economic

stability and the maintenance of international peace

and security.

The crisis in the Strait of Hormuz reminds us

that international cooperation and the respect

for international law are the only instruments

that can guarantee and strengthen maritime security.

There is no space for unilateral solutions

to these matters.

The closure of the strait threatens the transit

of fuel, fertilizers, and humanitarian aid

delivery in the region. That is why we are grateful

to the SG for the initiative to develop

a mechanism that would allow for safe maritime

transport through the Strait of Hormuz.

We also recall Resolution 2817

adopted by the Council on the 11th of March,

which reaffirms the freedom of navigation

that must be upheld, particularly in these

critical maritime routes.

The situation in the Strait of Hormuz cannot

be delinked from the regional situation.

Lasting peace in the region necessarily involves

respecting the principles of the UN Charter

by all those involved. Spain will continue

to defend the importance of dialogue and the use

of diplomacy in this context. I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:19:01]:

I thank the representative of Spain.

I now give the floor to the representative of Paraguay.


Paraguay · José Antonio Dos Santos [1:19:23]:

Thank you very much, President.

The delegation of Paraguay is taking the floor

at this debate.

Debate on the use of the veto in the context of resolution 76/262.

And we'd like to thank the President of the General Assembly for convening this timely meeting.

President, Paraguay is deeply concerned to see the escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

And we would like to express our full solidarity with the states who have been affected by the recent attacks.

The use of the veto cannot be delinked from the primary responsibility that the Security Council has to uphold international peace and security.

When the use of the veto prevents the Council from acting on serious crises, the credibility of the entire multilateral system is directly affected.

The situation that we're addressing today is particularly alarming.

It doesn't just compromise efforts for peace in a region that has historically been volatile, it also jeopardizes international stability and the functioning of essential trade routes for the global economy.

President, Paraguay is crystal clear that the Council cannot remain inert given imminent threats to peace.

The blockade of initiatives to cease hostilities undermines the very raison d'être of the Council.

The veto in this context is not a neutral matter, it has real global repercussions.

In this context, we believe that the proposal that was put forward by the presidency of Bahrain represented a serious, balanced, and negotiated good faith attempt to find a solution.

The fact that the resolution wasn't adopted represents a missed opportunity.

Paraguay also stresses the fact that the free transit through the Strait of Hormuz should be guaranteed without any kind of strings attached.

The use of maritime waterways as a means of exerting pressure on other nations is unacceptable.

Finally, we would like to call on all parties involved to act with responsibility, to resume negotiations, and to fully respect international law, particularly the UNCLOS and the importance of the freedom of navigation.

Multilateralism should not be a hostage to paralysis.

The Security Council must shoulder its responsibilities under its mandate. I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:22:47]:

I thank the representative of Paraguay. I now give the floor to the representative of Estonia.


Estonia [1:23:04]:

Mr. President, Estonia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union and would like to add the following in its national capacity.

Estonia has been a staunch supporter of the veto initiative since its inception, and we welcome the convening of today's debate.

We regret that the Security Council was not able to fulfill its Charter-mandated role due to the veto of two permanent members and therefore failed to adopt the resolution on the important issue of safeguarding international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

We thank Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Jordan for their intensive efforts and call upon the Security Council to act to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Estonia has expressed its solidarity with the Gulf states and Jordan in the face of Iran's unjustified and unprovoked attacks, which we strongly condemn.

We were proud to co-sponsor Security Council resolution 2817 and call for its full implementation, including to cease attacks affecting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Blocking the Strait has a major impact on the global economy.

Free and safe navigation must be ensured in line with international law.

We support all steps to ensure maritime safety and freedom of navigation and are discussing ways to contribute to these efforts together with allies.

It is in the interest of the whole global community that hostilities in the Middle East come to an end.

Estonia welcomes the ceasefire agreed by the United States and Iran and commends the role of mediators Pakistan as well as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Türkiye.

We urge for de-escalation and continued dialogue.

In order to achieve lasting peace in the region, we also emphasize the importance of respecting international law and the principles of the UN Charter.

President, we urge all parties in the region to respect the ceasefire, including in Lebanon.

The civilian harm caused by recent hostilities is unacceptable, all attacks against civilians must cease and international law must be respected.

As a troop-contributing country to UNIFIL, Estonia strongly condemned the attacks against peacekeepers and called for accountability.

Lebanon's sovereignty must be upheld and Hezbollah must disarm in line with its commitments.

We support the historic and courageous decisions taken by the Lebanese government in this regard.

We welcome today's announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon and hope that it can pave the way towards long-awaited lasting peace. I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:26:06]:

I thank the representative of Estonia. I now give the floor to the representative of Yemen.


Yemen [1:26:24]:

Mr. President, at the outset I would like to express our appreciation for convening this debate pursuant to General Assembly resolution 76/262 on the use of the veto in the Security Council meeting number held on April the 7th, 2026.

We condemn the unprovoked attacks by the Iranian regime against the sisterly states of the Gulf region as well as Jordan. This was a blatant violation of the UN Charter and international law and good neighborliness.

Yemen reiterates its full solidarity with these sisterly nations and we stand with them in the face of any threats against their security, stability, and sovereignty.

And accordingly, Yemen has co-sponsored Security Council resolution 2817 that was adopted at Security Council on the 11th of March.

Mr. President, the acts by the Iranian regime that threaten and obstruct freedom of navigation in the vital waterway of the Strait of Hormuz is a violation of international law, including UNCLOS.

And it also represents a serious violation of the relevant Security Council resolutions, including 2817 that was adopted on the 11th of March 2026.

These illegal acts by the Iranian regime in the Strait of Hormuz do not just threaten the interests of the region but directly threaten the needs of the global population in terms of energy and supply chains.

This clearly elevates to a threat to international peace and security.

Iran is entering the Strait of Hormuz into the conflict.

And these threats are multiplied in light of the repeated statements by the Iranian regime and its proxies in Yemen, the terrorist Houthi militias, who threaten to target the Red Sea and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait.

And entering that strait into the conflict and using it to exert economic and political pressure.

These militias have targeted international shipping in the past before in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden in 2023 to 2025 through targeting commercial ships and threatening international shipping lines.

This has led to widespread disruptions in the supply chains and a rise in costs of insurance and shipping and it has negatively affected the global economy.

These continued acts and threats warn of converting the international waterways into hotspots of open conflict.

Mr. President, the lack of decisive action against these acts will reflect severely on the future and will open the way for more. Such threats and escalations and such use of international waterways

that are very important in the international network of shipping.

Permanent stability can only be achieved through the full respect for state sovereignty

and a cessation of support for armed and terrorist militias

and a full respect for the UN Charter and international law.

Mr. President, Yemen reiterates the need to fully abide by the UN Charter

and the international law, including international humanitarian law.

And we call for a united international position that rises to the level of the current challenges

and that ends support for the Iranian regime and its proxies who threaten the world.

Thank you, Mr. President.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:30:39]:

Je remercie le représentant du Yémen.

Thank you very much.

The next speaker is Myanmar.


Myanmar [1:31:13]:

Thank you, Mr. President.

Mr. President, I wish to begin by thanking you for convening this meeting in accordance with the GA resolution 76/262.

Myanmar aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Philippines on behalf of ASEAN.

Mr. President, Myanmar is alarmed by recent development in the Middle East,

including attacks against critical civilian infrastructures and vessels,

disruption of maritime security, and their adverse impacts on international trade, energy security, and global economy.

As the precarious situation unfolds, the Security Council was unable to adopt a draft resolution on the Strait of Hormuz

owing to two negative votes of the permanent members of the Security Council.

Against this backdrop, I wish to underscore the following three points.

First, the urgency of ceasing all hostilities.

In support of this objective, Myanmar co-sponsors the Security Council resolution 2817 submitted by Bahrain on behalf of GCC

and adopted by the Council on March 11, 2026.

Myanmar welcomes the announcement of the two-week ceasefires as well as today's announcement

and emphasize the importance of sustaining de-escalations and creating conducive conditions for dialogue and diplomatic solutions.

In this regard, we commend the efforts of all parties including mediators

and look forward to the resumption of the next round of negotiations with a view to bringing lasting peace and stability in the region.

Second, the necessity of upholding freedom of navigation.

The disruption of security and stability in a critical maritime corridor has a ripple effect on food and energy supply chains.

Myanmar therefore stress the need to respect the right of transit passage in international waterways

in full compliance with international law including UNCLOS.

Such a prolonged crisis can pose a disproportionate risk to the most vulnerable,

particularly those in the least developed countries and conflict-affected situations.

In this context, I am dismayed to report that the rising prices of commodities, products, and fuel

is compounding the already dire humanitarian situation, food and energy insecurity in Myanmar since the illegal military coup.

As the people of Myanmar face fuel scarcity and queue for rations,

the military junta continue to exhaust jet fuel to conduct indiscriminate airstrikes against civilians across the country.

Third, the responsibility of the Council to fulfill its mandate.

We, as member states of the United Nations, confer on the Security Council the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security.

Myanmar expresses our regret that the Council was once again unable to speak in one voice despite the escalating adversities in the region.

The latest use of the veto and divergence views among the Council members are yet another reminder of the growing trend of paralysis

on many of the files under the Council agenda, including the situation in Myanmar.

As a case in point, the Council continues to fail the people of Myanmar by its inability to transparently discuss,

effectively address, and urgently take decisive action to resolve the situation for more than five years.

In conclusion, Mr. President, Myanmar reaffirms the importance of maintaining the freedom of navigation

and the right of transit passage in international waterways as well as the responsibility of the Council to address the issues of global significance.

People in conflict-affected countries around the world look up the Council and the UN to take timely actions to save their lives.

As such, the Security Council must appropriately respond to evolving conflict dynamics,

reflect realities on the ground in their assessments, and speak in unity to effectively discharge its mandate. I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:34:07]:

Je remercie le représentant du Myanmar.

Thank you very much.

The next speaker is Timor-Leste.


Timor-Leste · ASEAN [1:34:31]:

Mr. President, we welcome the convening of this debate pursuant to General Assembly resolution 76/262,

which strengthened transparency and accountability regarding the use of the veto.

Timor-Leste aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Philippines on behalf of ASEAN.

We wish to add the following points in our national capacity.

Mr. President, we note with concern the continued use of the veto in situations involving serious threats to international peace and security.

The credibility of the Security Council depends on its ability to act in a timely and united manner.

The Security Council's inability to adopt a resolution on maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz highlights ongoing challenges

in ensuring timely and effective action.

Mr. President, Timor-Leste continues to follow the situation in the Middle East with deep concern.

It is a reminder of the fragility of our collective security architecture.

When dialogue falters at the highest level, the risk to international trade, global energy security,

and regional peace are felt by all of us, with particular impact in small and developing states like my own.

We welcome ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions.

In particular, we commend the constructive initiative undertaken by Pakistan to promote dialogue and seek peaceful solutions.

It is more than a pause in hostilities. It is a vital space for trust building.

We therefore encourage all parties to protect this progress by exercising utmost restraint

and avoiding any actions that might inadvertently further heighten tensions.

Mr. President, Timor-Leste reaffirms the importance of compliance with international law,

including international humanitarian law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

The protection of civilians, the security of maritime navigation, and the maintenance of international peace and security remain essential priorities.

As a small island nation conscious of its global interconnectedness, Timor-Leste seeks to emphasize the importance

of ensuring the safe and unobstructed passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz

in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea to maintain the consistent flow of energy resources and vital commodities for all nations.

Mr. President, Timor-Leste also recalls Article 27, paragraph 3 of the Charter of the United Nations,

which provides that a party to a dispute shall abstain from voting.

This provision reflects a fundamental principle of impartiality in the Security Council decision-making that we believe should be observed.

We support continued reflection on how this provision can be applied consistently,

including through greater transparency and discussion in the General Assembly.

We take note of ongoing initiatives promoting voluntary restraint in the use of the veto,

particularly in situations involving serious violations of international law and encourage continued dialogue in this regard.

Mr. President, in conclusion, Timor-Leste remains steadfastly dedicated to multilateralism

and the fundamental purposes and principles outlined in the Charter of the United Nations.

Timor-Leste believes that stability in the Middle East is a collective global interest.

We maintain optimism that the spirit of cooperation demonstrated in recent days will contribute to the durable solution

by prioritizing the...


Bahrain · GCC [1:40:00]:

Diplomacy today,

we lay the foundation

for a more prosperous and stable future worldwide.

I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:40:09]:

Je remercie le représentant de Bahreïn.

Thank you very much.

The next speaker is Albania.


Albania [1:40:27]:

Mr. President,

Albania aligns with the statement of the European Union

and in its national capacity I would like to make the following additional remarks.

Freedom of navigation and maritime security are the lifelines of global peace, stability and prosperity.

Any attempt to undermine them is not merely a regional concern,

it is a direct challenge to the international order we are all bound to uphold.

The blocking of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran,

coupled with its attacks against neighboring countries,

represents a grave and unacceptable escalation.

These actions endanger one of the world's most critical maritime corridors,

threatening global energy supplies, economic stability,

and the security of nations far beyond the region.

Let us be clear.

The consequences of inaction will not be confined.

They will ripple across continents,

affecting economies, markets and the daily lives of millions.

In this context, we strongly support Bahrain's initiative to table a draft resolution

aimed at ensuring international engagement to safeguard transit passage

and prevent any disruption to the free flow of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

This is not only a necessary step, this is also an urgent one.

We commend the transparent and inclusive process through which this draft was discussed.

It is therefore deeply regrettable that consensus was not achieved

due to the veto of two permanent members.

At a moment when unity is not just desirable but indispensable,

such divisions weaken the credibility of the Council and hinder our collective responsibility.

We reaffirm unequivocally that the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway.

All ships and aircraft enjoy the right of transit passage under international law.

This is not negotiable.

We call on the Security Council to act decisively without delay

to uphold freedom of navigation and ensure that the security of maritime routes is secured.

The world is watching and it expects leadership.

Mr. President, from the outset Albania has stood firmly behind efforts led by the United States

to bring the conflict in the Middle East to an end.

We commend the constructive role played by the Gulf Cooperation Council in advancing dialogue and stability.

The ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran is an encouraging development

and we urge all parties to build on this progress through continued dialogue,

restraint and respect for international law.

We commend Pakistan and other regional actors for their important role in facilitating this positive development.

In conclusion, Albania stands resolute in its commitment to international cooperation,

multilateralism and implementation of the UN Charter.

We call on all nations that value peace to rise to this responsibility,

as global challenges can only be met through our collective resolve.

I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:43:37]:

Je remercie la représentante de l'Albanie.

Thank you very much.

The next speaker is Barbados.

Je vous remercie Monsieur le Président.


Barbados [1:43:58]:

Barbados welcomes this opportunity to contribute to the debate on this important issue

and reiterates its support for the decision the General Assembly took to empower itself

to hold such debates when a veto is cast in the Security Council.

Mr. President, the situation in the Middle East in general and in the Strait of Hormuz in particular

is deeply concerning in several ways.

First and foremost, the loss of life that has been occasioned by this most recent episode of war

is producing innumerable tragedies across the entire region which we deeply deplore.

We are deeply concerned that the states in the region not party to the conflict

are nonetheless being targeted and are facing considerable damage and loss of life.

Barbados stands in solidarity with all the innocent victims of this conflict.

For this reason, Barbados joins others, including the Secretary-General of the United Nations,

in calling for an immediate and durable cessation of all hostilities.

Second, we are concerned that many of the actions of the belligerents

constitute grave violations of international law, international humanitarian law and the law of the sea,

including violations of the prohibition against the use of force.

The erosion of these fundamental norms of the international system endangers the system's very existence

and undermines the principles of the United Nations Charter.

Third, across the world, including in my own country,

we are seeing the dramatic economic and social consequences of the war,

in higher costs for a wide range of essential goods and services, including food, fuel and fertilizer.

This imperils what is already for many of our countries a precarious path to sustainable development.

We therefore believe it is of the utmost urgency that diplomacy take the place of conflict

and that every tool of confidence building and peacemaking be deployed now

to prevent further bloodshed and to create a pathway to peace in the Middle East.

I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:46:31]:

Je remercie le représentant de la Barbade.

Thank you very much.

The next speaker is Trinidad and Tobago.


Trinidad and Tobago [1:46:53]:

Thank you, Mr. President.

My delegation takes note of the outcome of the recent voting of the draft resolution S/2026/273,

tabled by Bahrain on behalf of the GCC states and Jordan, aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

While the resolution secured the requisite number of votes under Article 27(3) of the Charter,

its non-adoption reflects the continuing complexities the Council encounters when differing positions

prevent collective action in addressing urgent events, even where broad support exists.

The obstruction of the Strait of Hormuz has far-reaching global implications,

with significant consequences for the global economy as well as the availability and cost of critical commodities,

thereby undermining both food and energy security as well as the delivery of humanitarian aid.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital international trade and transit artery for energy supplies and essential goods.

Its disruption has adversely affected predictable trade flows and the stability of global supply chains,

contributing to one of the most severe global crises with particularly acute consequences for vulnerable populations and developing economies.

It is for this reason that Trinidad and Tobago supported and co-sponsored the recent IMO declaration,

which focused on condemning attacks on shipping and calling for coordinated international action to ensure safe navigation.

Mr. President, my delegation encourages the Security Council to continue its careful consideration of this matter

and to constructively support the maintenance of safe and unimpeded passage through the strait,

in the best interest of all, thereby ensuring maritime security and upholding the principle of the freedom of navigation

as provided for in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Mr. President, in closing, Trinidad and Tobago reaffirms its belief in the primacy of multilateralism

and urges renewed dialogue among all members to uphold the spirit of cooperation

and to strengthen the Council's ability to respond effectively and purposefully to situations that threaten international peace and security.

Mr. President, I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:49:35]:

Je remercie la représentante de la Trinité-et-Tobago.

Thank you very much.

The next speaker is the Maldives.


Maldives [1:50:08]:

Thank you, Mr. President.

Once again, the veto has paralyzed the Security Council at a critical moment.

The existence of the veto, the threat of its use, and its use in situations where the Council must act to protect peace is deplorable.

The veto results in texts that are shaped more by compromise than meaningful action.

And even those texts fail, prolonging tensions, deepening divisions, and limiting space for dialogue.

The veto weakens multilateralism.

For SIDS like the Maldives, paralysis of the Council carries profound consequences.

Our voices remain underrepresented, yet we bear the disproportionate impact of inaction.

We are among the most vulnerable to external shocks and geopolitical inflections.

Disruptions to peace and security directly impact our supply chains, economies, livelihoods, and development.

The Maldives welcomes the temporary ceasefire agreement between Iran and the United States.

And appreciates the efforts of Pakistan and all parties who utilized diplomacy to facilitate dialogue.

It is crucial that dialogue and diplomacy prevail and continue to de-escalate hostilities in the region.

We underscore the importance of protecting civilians and ensuring freedom of navigation to facilitate global trade and sustain global energy securities.

The Maldives reaffirms support for all efforts towards achieving peaceful resolution of differences.

And urges that these efforts are guided by respect for international law and the UN Charter.

To restore peace and stability for the region and create a lasting solution.

The Maldives also reiterates its call for urgent action reform of the Security Council.

The veto must be abolished.

Or at the very least constrained so that it can only be exercised with utmost restraint.

The Council must become more representative, more transparent, and more accountable.

I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:52:18]:

Thank you very much. The next speaker is Mexico.


Mexico [1:52:47]:

Thank you, President.

The government of Mexico is deeply concerned about the humanitarian and economic repercussions of the escalation of violence in the Middle East.

The recent announcement of a truce between Lebanon and Israel is a positive sign.

We recognize all of the efforts that have made that come about.

We also recognize all of those who made it possible for an agreement to be reached for a ceasefire around the issue of the Strait of Hormuz.

We hope that these spaces for dialogue can continue and that they will make it possible to reach a permanent ceasefire so as to bring about lasting peace in the entire region.

My country stresses the need to prioritize diplomacy through dialogue and mediation as the only legitimate ways to bring about peace and lasting stability in the region.

It is also critical to ensure the protection of civilians in conflicts.

In line with international humanitarian law.

Mexico supports the UN Secretary-General.

In the appointment of Mr. Jean Arnault as his special envoy for the conflict in the Middle East and its consequences.

And the establishment of a task force.

To establish a support mechanism to predictable, orderly, and safe maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz.

We hope that these diplomatic channels will bring about the conditions that can be propitious for dialogue and cooperation between all of those involved.

At the International Maritime Organization, Mexico also called for the establishment of a safe maritime corridor to allow for the evacuation of seafarers and immobilized vessels.

We hope that that mechanism will come about as soon as possible given that there are approximately 20,000 seafarers who are currently stranded in the area.

The International Civil Aviation Organization should also be fully involved.

To re-establish all of the airline routes and safe air operations in the area.

Cities have become battlegrounds.

Essential civilian infrastructure has been destroyed and basic services such as the provision of water and medical attention have been gravely affected by attacks.

In this context, it is critical for the international community to act.

Because the civilians are bearing the brunt of this situation.

Innocent lives are being lost and those who survive in already vulnerable contexts are being deprived of a dignified life and opportunities for development.

The Security Council, given that it has the primary responsibility to uphold international peace and security, should be able to take measures.

Commensurate with these circumstances and to promote.

Objective measures to ensure that all the parties involved can adhere to their responsibilities.

This in line with Chapter VI of the UN Charter pertaining to the peaceful settlement of disputes.

Where there is no alternative way to solve conflicts, the world looks to this organization to step up.

The most visible part of the UN, peace and security, is not currently living up to contemporary challenges.

Given the limited action or even paralysis of the Security Council.

We are seeing conflicts being exacerbated, and that is why Mexico reiterates the need for the UN General Assembly.

To take on a more proactive role in fulfilling its mandate.

To uphold international peace and security.

I conclude by reaffirming Mexico's commitment to international law and to this organization's founding charter.

In particular to the peaceful settlement of disputes, respecting human rights, and promoting international cooperation as well as all efforts to find peace in the Middle East.

Thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [1:57:52]:

I thank the representative from Mexico and I now give the floor to the representative of Ethiopia.


Ethiopia [1:58:12]:

Thank you, Mr. President.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most important maritime corridors, serving as a vital route for the movement of energy supplies and essential goods.

That support economies across regions, particularly in developing countries.

Disruptions to maritime trade through this corridor may carry wide-ranging implications.

The safe and secure passage of vessels remains essential to ensure the stability of energy markets and food supply chains.

For many developing countries, such developments may translate into increased vulnerabilities and broader economic challenges.

Ensuring the continued flow of maritime commerce through the Strait is therefore both regional and global in importance.

At a time of heightened uncertainty, there is a need to reaffirm the shared responsibility to promote peace and stability in the Middle East.

Sustainable security in the region remains essential for international peace and economic resilience.

In this regard, the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law remains fundamental to maintaining stability and preventing further tensions.

Constructive diplomatic engagements continue to offer the most effective path toward de-escalation and long-term stability.

Measures aimed at reducing tensions and fostering confidence can help safeguard critical maritime routes.

They can contribute to an environment conducive to peace and cooperation.

Such efforts are important to preventing disruption and ensuring that global trade in energy and food supplies remains accessible. Especially for vulnerable developing countries.

In this regard, we take note of the initiative

of the Secretary-General to establish a dedicated task force

as an immediate step to facilitate quick transit of

quick transit of fertilizer and fuel through the Strait of Hormuz.

This is critical to mitigate impacts on food security

and humanitarian needs.

The international community should therefore continue to encourage

dialogue and support mechanisms for peaceful dispute resolution.

Advancing these efforts can contribute to preserving the security

and stability of the Middle East and strengthening the broader

foundations of international peace and prosperity.

I thank you, Mr. President.


UNS · Chair [2:00:48]:

I thank the representative of Ethiopia.

I now give the floor to the representative of Cyprus.


Cyprus [2:00:57]:

Thank you, Mr. President.

At the outset, Cyprus aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union.

We reaffirm our solidarity with our Gulf partners and Jordan

and reiterate our full support to the UN Security Council Resolution 2817.

All civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected at all times,

in full respect of international humanitarian law.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global lifeline

for energy flows, trade, food security, and maritime connectivity.

Ensuring predictability at sea is therefore a shared responsibility.

Cyprus, as a maritime nation with a significant fleet presence

and as holder of the EU presidency, has been actively engaged across all relevant fora.

In this context, our priorities as EU presidency,

regional stability and maritime security, are strategic necessities.

We reaffirm the fundamental principle of freedom of navigation

and that ships must enjoy transit passage through the Strait of Hormuz

in accordance with international law as reflected in UNCLOS.

Furthermore, we underscore the importance of ensuring the safety of vessels,

their crews, and seafarers, whose protection is essential

to maintaining unimpeded commercial shipping.

In this regard, Cyprus welcomes the UN initiative to establish a task force

as a practical verification mechanism to support orderly transit

for essential goods and humanitarian supplies.

We welcome the recently announced two-week ceasefire

between the United States and Iran as a critical step in returning to diplomacy.

This opportunity must be seized to advance a meaningful pathway

for dialogue and sustained de-escalation across the region, including in Lebanon,

with a view to restoring stability and achieving comprehensive peace.

Cyprus welcomes the announcement of a ten-day ceasefire

between Israel and Lebanon, facilitated through sustained American leadership.

We commend the contribution of all stakeholders who assisted in this effort.

Cyprus stands ready to do its part in the way ahead.

This is a critical moment that must be seized.

It marks a meaningful step towards de-escalation across the region

and paves the way for lasting peace.

It is vital that all parties fully respect and implement what has been agreed,

in full respect of Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

To this end, the role of UNIFIL remains vital,

and we stress the need to ensure the safety and security of the UN peacekeepers.

I thank you.


UNS · Chair [2:03:37]:

I thank the representative of Cyprus.

I now give the floor to the representative of Cambodia.


Cambodia [2:03:59]:

Mr. President.

Cambodia aligns itself with the statement of ASEAN delivered by the Philippines this morning.

At the same time, I wish to outline the following statement on my country.

Cambodia express its deep concern over the rapidly deteriorating situation in the Middle East,

in particular the severe humanitarian impact on civilians,

as well as the increasing threats to commercial shipping,

critical infrastructure, and vital energy facilities.

This alarming development extend far beyond the immediate parties involved

and risk triggering serious and far-reaching consequences

for global economy and global energy security.

In this regard, we call for full and effective implementation of ceasefire

between the United States and Iran.

We urge the restoration of safe, unimpeded, and continuous transit passage

of vessels and aircrafts through the Strait of Hormuz

in accordance with the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

We call on all states to resolve their differences through peaceful means

in accordance with international law and the UN Charter.

Mr. President.

Freedom of navigation remains unequivocal principle of international law

as reflected in UNCLOS.

In this spirit, Cambodia strongly supports maritime security

and the preservation of freedom of navigation.

At the same time, we call upon all states to fully respect international law

and to uphold fundamental principles underpinning international peace, security, and prosperity.

Cambodia remains firmly committed to supporting peaceful dialogue,

upholding international law, and contributing constructively to efforts aimed at promoting peace,

stability, and security, as well as ensuring unhindered flow of global trade.

I thank you, Mr. President.


UNS · Chair [2:05:37]:

I thank the representative of Cambodia.

I now give the floor to the observer of the Sovereign Order of Malta.


Malta [2:06:01]:

Mr. President.

The conflict in the Middle East doesn't exist in a vacuum.

It reverberates across the globe, directly impacting the social

and economic fabric of every continent.

As the cradle of the three Abrahamic religions,

the region is the spiritual home to over half of the human race.

Yet we find ourselves in a landscape where every step forward

must be taken with utmost gravity and care, and where tragedy, suffering,

and intolerance prevail where peace and prosperity should be ascendant.

Furthermore, these shockwaves threaten the fragile religious

and social balance of the entire Levant, most acutely in Lebanon,

where institutional strain and mass displacement already ignites a wider conflict.

We must confront the realistic and terrifying trajectory of this contagion.

This is no longer a localized struggle. It is a conflict

that drags in nations far beyond its borders, threatening the very arteries of global security.

The ongoing paralysis in the Straits of Hormuz is not merely a commercial risk.

Its stability is essential for maintaining the global supply chains

upon which humanitarian operations depend.

Ensuring the passage of energy products, fertilizers, and other goods

essential to the global economy is vital to the well-being of populations,

and as we have heard today from numerous speakers, the consequences

for food insecurity, particularly in Africa and Asia, are both real

and are already having a negative impact.

Upholding freedom of navigation under international law is therefore

a prerequisite for protecting the most vulnerable and safeguarding

the logistical foundations of global aid.

Mr. President, in parallel to these concerns, the Sovereign Order of Malta,

a neutral and impartial actor on the global stage, continues to uphold

its humanitarian mission on the ground, guided by principles of neutrality,

impartiality, and humanity.

Through our relief organization, Malteser International, and our national

associations, we maintain a sustained operational presence in the Holy Land,

fielding thousands of volunteers and workers in Gaza, in the West Bank,

and in Lebanon.

In carrying out our work, we are reminded that across all contexts,

humanitarian workers from a multitude of organizations continue to risk

and often to lose their lives in the service of others.

They do not carry guns, nor do they fire missiles.

Their hands are for healing, for feeding, and for comforting.


Malta · Observer [2:10:00]:

Hands are devoted to service

and their hearts are inspired by love.

Blessed are the peacemakers,

Pope Leo reminds us.

What an indictment to all of us

that so many others

and so many humanitarian

individuals must pay

for the compassion of the world with their lives.

We remember Chadi Al-Maar,

a young Order of Malta Lebanon staff member

killed in Southern Lebanon,

and Hassan Badawi,

a Lebanese Red Cross paramedic killed

while on an ambulance mission just a few days ago.

The protection of humanitarian workers must remain paramount

and absolute in this regard.

We applaud the recent joint multilateral statement

on the protection of aid workers in Lebanon,

sponsored by the Australian Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Mr. President, respect for international humanitarian law

is non-negotiable.

Access to life-saving assistance and guaranteeing principles

such as the right to worship must never become collateral to conflict.

In this hall, we must uphold a fundamental truth,

recently articulated by Pope Leo.

Nothing, he said, is lost with peace.

Everything can be lost with war.

Let these words guide our deliberations

as we strive to navigate a path to peace

over a cycle of destruction.

And let us hope and pray that recently announced ceasefires

across the region will be maintained through respectful dialogue

and serious negotiation.

Thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [2:12:03]:

I thank the observer of the Sovereign Order of Malta.

We have heard the last speaker in this debate.

The exercise of the right of reply has been requested.

May I remind members that statements in the exercise

of the right of reply are limited to ten minutes for the first intervention

and to five minutes for the second intervention

and should be made by delegations from their seats.

I call on the representative of Kuwait.


Kuwait · Group [2:12:53]:

Mr. President,

I ask the floor on behalf of the Kingdom of Bahrain, the UAE,

the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the State of Qatar, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

and my country, the State of Kuwait,

to respond to the statement by the Islamic Republic of Iran.

This statement included false claims.

Legally and factually, it included

accusations against our countries that are untrue. We categorically

reject claims that our territories, our facilities are used

to launch attacks against the Islamic Republic of Iran. We stress

that our states have never been party to the ongoing conflict.

This is what has been stressed time and again. This

was included in the letters sent by Bahrain on behalf of our countries

to the Secretary-General and to President of the Security Council and they

were issued as documents of the Council. These repeated claims by Iran

are presented as part of its repeated attempts to justify the

unlawful attacks launched by the Islamic Republic of Iran against our countries.

They've launched drones and missiles in

violation of our sovereignty and territorial integrity and in flagrant

violation of the United Nations Charter, which prohibit the

threat of use of force or the use of force against the sovereignty

and territorial integrity of states.

The attacks by the Islamic Republic of Iran

included targeting different civilian sites and civilian infrastructure,

vital facilities and oil installations. This is a flagrant

violation of international humanitarian law and it is a grave

escalation that does not contribute to settling the crisis. On the

contrary, it makes it more complex. It is pushing the region

towards a new wave of violence.

The statement by Iran on using Article 51 of the Charter

and the principle of self-defense as a pretext for Iranian attacks,

this is a legally invalid argument rejected by the international community,

as manifested in the fact that the vast majority of member states

have co-sponsored Resolution 2817 that condemned these measures

and demanded that they stop. The resolution stressed that these measures

are a violation of international law and a grave threat to international peace and security.

Article 51 applies but not in the way stated in the Iranian statement,

but applies in the way that is contained in Resolution 2817.

It stressed the right of countries to defend themselves individually or collectively

in response to systematic attacks by Iran.

Regarding the safety of navigation, there is no doubt that Iranian practices

are a flagrant violation of international law. They

threaten international peace and energy and food supply chains.

This adversely affects the whole world. As we said in our statements today,

the measures taken by the Islamic Republic of Iran, which are illegal,

are not a new development. They are part of a pattern of behavior

that we've seen time and again. Resolution 552 has reflected

international concern towards these practices. I thank you, Mr. President.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [2:15:17]:

I thank the representative of Kuwait. I now give the floor

to the representative of France.


France · President of the Security Council · Nicolas de Rivière [2:15:28]:

Thank you, Mr. President. I find myself compelled to take the floor

to react to unacceptable accusations made by the representative of Israel.

The position of France is very clear, as is international law.

International waters is a common good and the freedom of navigation

is an essential principle under international law. No one

can exercise control over it or constrain it or monetize it

in whatever way possible. By blocking the Strait of Hormuz,

Iran is imperiling the interests of the entire international community.

The impeding freedom of navigation is something that we condemn.

And since the beginning of this year, we ask for an unconditional

reopening of the Strait of Hormuz without control or tolls.

Our commitment to international law is shown in our actions.

France announced that it is ready to take a responsibility

for a system of escorts once a ceasefire is established

and is lasting. We are working with the United Kingdom and our

international partners to put together multinational Pacific missions

to ensure navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. This strictly

defensive mission is the aim to be deployed once the situation allows it.

I thank you.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [2:16:25]:

I thank the representative of France. I now give the floor

to the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran.


Iran (Islamic Republic of) [2:16:34]:

Mr. Vice President, I thank you. To respond briefly

to the delegation of Kuwait, we want to stress again under

international laws, states are prohibited from allowing their territory

to be used directly or indirectly to cause damage to other states.

In addition, they must take all necessary measures to prevent

foreign armed forces based in their territory from committing acts

of aggression against other states and must not facilitate or support such acts.

In the event of a breach of these fundamental obligations,

they bear international legal responsibility. In exercising

its inherent right to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity,

the Islamic Republic of Iran, in light of the evident failure

of the United Nations Security Council to discharge its


Iran (Islamic Republic of) · Permanent Representative · Amir Saeid Iravani [2:20:00]:

Duties of the evident failure of the United Nations

its duties and responsibilities under the Charter of the United Nations

my country has undertaken necessary and proportionate defensive operations against bases

and facilities of the aggressors in the region.

Such actions are lawful under international law

and had been clearly and repeatedly warned of in advance

through various channels and at different levels.

Nothing can deny or undermine Iran's inherent right to defend itself against military aggression

of the United States and the Israeli regime.

Iran's defensive operations are directed solely against the targets and capabilities

that serve as the source or origin of acts of aggression against the Iranian people

or that are used in support of such acts.

Countries in the region are fully aware that presence of the United States military bases in their territory

has contributed nothing to regional security and has instead served only to support

the preparation of crimes against Iranian civilians.

Mr. Vice-President, the representative of the United States and the Israeli regime

have once again resorted to a desperate attempt to justify their aggression

and atrocious crimes committed against my country and Iranian people

by leveling baseless accusations, claims that stand in stark contradiction to the facts on the ground.

They have further chosen to address my country inappropriately and unacceptably,

falsely attributing to Iran the very malicious conduct that the United States

and the Israeli regime themselves continue to commit against my people.

Let us be clear and guided by facts, not distortions,

about who is truly responsible for sponsoring terrorism and committing egregious atrocities.

First, we categorically reject all unfounded and politically motivated allegations

against my country made in this meeting. These claims lack any legal basis

and serve only to divert attention from the realities on the ground,

namely the illegal and savage war launched by the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran.

Their purpose is clear: to whitewash the atrocious and war crimes committed by the US and Israeli

against the people of Iran and to obscure and deflect from serious violations

committed against the Iranian people. Yet the facts are clear and they require no reinterpretation.

Second, as emphasized this morning in Iran's statement, this is an illegal,

unprovoked, and unjust war imposed upon my country by the United States and the Israeli regime.

Iran is not the aggressor. It is the victim of aggression.

The aggressors are clear: the United States and the Israeli regime.

Iran's sovereignty and territorial integrity have been flagrantly violated.

This war constitutes a grave breach of the Charter of the United Nations

and the most fundamental principles of international law.

Third, since 28th of February 2026, the United States and the Israeli regime

have launched a large-scale aggression against my country.

This unlawful and criminal war, in blatant violation of Article 2, paragraph 4,

of the Charter of the United Nations, has exposed regional stability

as well as the safety and security of international navigation to an unprecedented threat.

The United States and the Israeli regime have deliberately and indiscriminately

targeted civilian and civilian infrastructure across Iran.

These actions demonstrate a complete disregard for international law

and a total absence of restraint in the commission of war crimes.

The attack on an elementary school in Minab on the morning of 28th February,

which resulted in the killing of more than 168 schoolgirls,

stands as one of the most horrific examples of these crimes from the very outset of the aggression.

The United States and the genocidal Israeli regime must bear full responsibility

for the harm and suffering inflicted upon Iranian civilians, civilian objects,

and critical infrastructure and must be held fully accountable.

Individual criminal responsibility for serious violation of international humanitarian law,

including war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Iran,

must be pursued without exception in accordance with international law.

And finally, as for the absurd claims made by representative of the Israeli regime,

a regime with no moral, legal, or political standing to lecture others,

I categorically reject and unequivocally condemn them.

It is deeply ironic that a regime with a long record of aggression, crimes,

and defiance of international law dares to preach to others and accuse my country.

Today, its representative has again attempted to distract this forum

from the atrocities committed in our region, from Gaza and Lebanon to Iran,

by fabricating baseless allegations. Iran's nuclear program has always been

and is and will remain exclusively peaceful. This is not a matter of rhetoric,

it is a matter of fact and of record.

The peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear activities has been consistently

and repeatedly verified and confirmed by the International Atomic Energy Agency,

which has conducted the most intense inspection regime ever carried out in any country.

I take this opportunity to reject the baseless allegation made by the representative of Argentina.

My country has numerously made sure that no Iranian citizen was involved

directly or indirectly in the AMIA explosion. While condemning the Argentina's move

to label Iran's armed forces as a terrorist organization, I would like to stress

that the glorious Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran is a sovereign institution

that stems from the spirit of the Iranian nation, which derives its legitimacy

from the constitution and the will of the Iranian people and will, along with other armed forces,

fulfill the duty of safeguarding the independence, territorial integrity,

and national security of the country with authority and dignity. I thank you, Mr. Vice-President.


GA · President of the General Assembly · Dennis Francis [2:27:05]:

I thank the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The General Assembly has thus concluded its consideration of this agenda item.

The meeting stands adjourned.