Sudan and South Sudan - Security Council, 10272nd meeting

Thank you.

The 10,271st meeting of the Security Council is called to order. The provisional agenda for this meeting is the situation in the Middle East. The agenda is adopted. In accordance with rule 37 of the Council's provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran to participate in this meeting. It is so decided. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council's provisional rules of procedure, I invite the following briefers to participate in this meeting: Mr. Khaled Hyari, Assistant Secretary General, Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations; and His Excellency Mr. Jassim Mohammed Al-Budawi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council. It is so decided. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of item 2 of the agenda. I now give the floor to Mr. Khaled Hyari.

Thank you for the opportunity to brief the Security Council. At the outset, let me reiterate the Secretary-General’s strong warnings that continued tensions in and around the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb pose grave risks to international peace and security, regional stability, and the global economy. Every day brings new reports of maritime incidents. Commercial vessels are subjected to different types of attacks. Many commercial vessels and their crews have been stranded inside the Persian Gulf for months. Restrictions on maritime navigation by the parties add further uncertainty. While we take note of reports that the volume of energy exports out of the Gulf region has largely been restored, including due to alternative routes, this should not be mistaken for a return to normality. The volume of maritime shipments remain below the pre-conflict levels. October saw the highest monthly number of incidents against commercial shipping since February 2026. As of 11 November, the International Maritime Organization, IMO, recorded 134 confirmed incidents in the Strait of Hormuz and the wider Middle East maritime area. 25 seafarers lost their lives, according to the IMO. Many others have been injured or remain missing. These incidents are unacceptable. Civilian vessels and commercial shipping must not become targets. While there have been no recent reports of attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, ongoing clashes around Bab el-Mandeb strait, the potential disruption of maritime navigation, and the continued threats to freedom of navigation remain of deep concern. On the same note, we also reiterate our concerns and condemnation of Houthi cross-border attacks against civilian and energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, and the intensification of clashes across Yemen. Madam President, the present maritime arrangements in the Middle East remain costly, unpredictable, and unsafe. Disruption to maritime navigation continues to have significant global economic consequences. driving up energy, transport, and insurance costs, fueling inflation, and threatening food security amid severely constrained fertilizer shipments. The longer these restrictions persist, the greater the economic costs and the more difficult it will become to restore commercial confidence and trade flows. This situation cannot be allowed to become the new normal. The full restoration of maritime navigation in the region and the restoration of safe and unimpeded passage, along with the full exercise of navigational rights and freedoms in accordance with international law, are essential for regional and global stability. As the Secretary-General emphasized on numerous occasions, maritime chokepoints must never become instruments of coercion. The movement of food, energy, fertilizer, and other essential goods must not be impeded. The Secretary-General continues to emphasize that navigational rights and freedoms must be restored without delay, and all attacks on civilian vessels must stop immediately. Arrangements governing maritime traffic should be consistent with international law and applicable regulations of the IMO. We call on all parties to comply fully with their obligations under international law, including the Law of the Sea and relevant resolutions of the Security Council. Cooperation with the IMO to enhance the safety and security of navigation in a manner consistent with international law is also critical. Madam President, Maritime developments cannot be separated from the wider tensions in the region. We are encouraged that there have been no major military exchanges since early September. At the same time, we remain deeply concerned by rhetoric suggesting the possibility of renewed military confrontation. The agreements reached in June between Iran and the United States, as contained in the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, demonstrated that diplomacy can produce results. Despite the regrettable resumption of military action since the signature of the MOU and the stalemate in negotiations, including the nuclear file and sanctions, we welcome the resumption of diplomatic activities in Doha and elsewhere in the region. We urge the parties to seize the current opportunities and negotiate in good faith. We hope that the mediator’s efforts will help Iran and the United States reach a peaceful and durable settlement. Madam President, we are encouraged by continued efforts by regional states to explore arrangements to improve maritime security. These efforts are important. They can complement a broader political process. The countries of the region have an important role in advancing confidence-building measures, sustaining diplomatic engagement, reducing tensions, and encouraging compromise. Renewed hostilities would have devastating consequences for Iran, the region, and beyond. The people of the region, and indeed the wider international community, cannot afford a prolonged conflict in one of the world’s most strategically important waterways. Diplomacy, compromise, and political courage remain the only path to lasting peace. The Secretary-General stands ready to support negotiations toward a peaceful, comprehensive, and durable settlement. Thank you, Madam President.

Thank Mr. Hiyari for his briefing, and I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Jassem Mohammed Al Budawi.

In the name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate. Madam President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, may the peace of God be upon you. I extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to the Republic of Latvia, President of the Security Council for this month, for convening this meeting amidst dangerous developments in the region, and for providing us the opportunity to present the position of the GCC member states regarding the implications of these developments for regional and international security and freedom of navigation. Madam President, We are addressing your Council today with a unified Gulf voice. The GCC states reject any infringement upon their security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. We reaffirm that the attacks against us violate international law, threaten international peace and security, and require action by the Security Council to ensure their cessation and implementation of its resolution and to prevent their recurrence. Since the 28th of February 2026, the GCC states have been subjected to Iranian attacks involving more than 7,000 missiles and drones against airports, ports, oil and gas facilities, power stations, water desalination plants, residential areas, and civilian facilities. These attacks have resulted in casualties and injuries, extensive damage for property and infrastructure, and serious repercussions for the maritime environment. in the waters of the Arabian Gulf. The GCC once again condemns in the strongest terms these criminal attacks, which constitute a flagrant violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of GCC member states. They constitute a breach of the principles of the UN Charter, international law, and IHL. The GCC holds Iran fully responsible for these attacks and their consequences, and rejects all claims by Iran to justify targeting GCC states, which were not party to the war, but instead exerted intensive diplomatic efforts to spare the region from escalation. The GCC welcomes the adoption by the Council of Resolution 2817. The resolution condemned the Iranian attacks against GCC states and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, demanded their immediate cessation, and called for an end to provocation and threats against neighboring states, including the use of proxies in the region. The resolution also condemned Iranian attacks and threats aiming at closing the Strait of Hormuz or obstructing international navigation through the strait. The adoption of the resolution places upon the Council the responsibility to follow up on its implementation and prevent the recurrence of such attacks. In this regard, we recall Human Rights Council resolution 61/1, which called for accountability for the violations resulting from these attacks. In its operative paragraph 9, it requested Iran to provide full, effective, and prompt reparations to all victims for the damages, losses, and injuries resulting from its attacks in or against territories of GCC states and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. I emphasized before your Council that the security of the GCC states is indivisible, and any attack against one member state is an attack against all GCC states. Our countries remain committed to their inherent right to self-defense in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter to protect their sovereignty, territorial integrity, citizens, and residents. Madam President, The Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist militia, which operates outside the framework of state and international legitimacy, continues its attacks against KSA, targeting the two holy mosques and their surrounding areas, peaceful pilgrims, civilian airports, vital and oil facilities, in a flagrant violation of the rules of international humanitarian law. Among these attacks was the strike on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh last October, which resulted in dozens of innocent victims and hundreds of injuries. The GCC condemns these heinous attacks. We affirm our full solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We stand united alongside the Kingdom and support the measures it takes to safeguard its sovereignty, protect its security and interests in accordance with international law. In this context, we welcome the presidential statement issued by the Security Council on 15 October 2026, which condemned the continuing Houthi attacks against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed its right to self-defence, condemned attacks and threats against commercial navigation in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. We also welcome the unanimous adoption yesterday by your esteemed Council of resolution 2837, which strongly condemned the military escalation by the Houthi militia in Yemen, its attacks against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and its threats to commercial shipping. The resolution demanded the immediate and unconditional cessation of its escalation and attacks, including attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure. It also condemned the continued supply of weapons and weapon components to the militia in violation of the arms embargo imposed under resolutions 2216 and 2624. The GCC also condemns in the strongest terms the horrific crimes and grave violations committed by the Houthi militia against humanitarian and international workers, most recently causing the death of a UN staff member in detention after years of abduction and enforced disappearance, and the referral of others to trial on fabricated charges carrying the death penalty. The GCC calls upon the Security Council to adopt a firm position regarding these unprecedented crimes against UN personnel. At the same time, the GCC reaffirms its support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Republic of Yemen, and its support for the efforts of the UN and Special Envoy to reach a comprehensive political solution based on the three references: one that ends the suffering of the brotherly Yemeni people and fulfills their aspiration for security, peace, and stability. However, the Houthi militia continues its military escalation and undermines opportunities for peace, despite previous initiatives to consolidate the truth and the intensive efforts undertaken by the Special Envoy. Madam President, The effects of Iranian attacks and Houthi threats have extended to international maritime routes. The Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb are vital corridors for trade and energy supplies, and their security is a shared international interest that transcends the boundaries of the region. The GCC condemns attacks targeting commercial vessels and oil and gas tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, which have claimed the lives of a number of seafarers. We reject any attempt to close the strait, obstruct navigation therein, or impose unlawful restrictions or transit fees. We also condemn Houthi terrorist attacks against commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The GCC emphasizes the need to fully implement Resolution 2722, which demanded that the Houthis immediately cease their attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea. Together with resolution 2817, this resolution provides a clear basis for Security Council action aimed at stopping the attacks, protecting vessels and crews, and ensuring safe passage through these waterways without threats or unlawful restrictions. Madam President, the interconnected nature of the global economy makes the security of maritime routes a collective responsibility. Disruption of navigation in a single corridor affects factories, businesses, and consumers across continents and threatens the regular flow of trade and energy supplies. The consequences of disrupting navigation in the Strait of Hormuz have gone beyond the economic dimension to a serious humanitarian dimension. The continued disruption has disturbed global supply chains, reduced supplies of essential goods and foodstuffs, and interrupted the flow of fertilizers and ammonia upon which global food security depends. The Secretary-General has warned of rising global inflation and the risk that some regions, particularly the developing and most vulnerable countries, could be facing famine and acute food insecurity due to fertilizer shortages. International law has established clear principles guaranteeing freedom of navigation through states used for international navigation, while preserving the sovereignty and rights of coastal states. The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which reflects customary international law, affirms in Article 38 the right of ships and aircraft to transit passage, including navigation and overflight, through straits to which this regime applies. Article 44 further provides that transit passage shall not be impeded or suspended. In this context, we recall the historic position of the Security Council during what became known as the tanker war in the Arabian Gulf, when it adopted resolution 552 on the basis of a draft submitted by GCC states following attacks on commercial vessels traveling to and from the ports of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Kuwait. Recalling this resolution more than four decades later confirms that protecting maritime navigation is not a new issue. but rather an established principle of international law. The Security Council had previously affirmed its responsibility to safeguard it, recognizing the grave consequences that threats to maritime navigation can have for international peace and security. Madam President, The stability of our region is also linked to resolving its crisis on the basis of state sovereignty and international law. GCC reiterates its steadfast position regarding the Palestinian cause and its support for ending the Israeli occupation and establishing an independent Palestinian state on the borders of 4 June 1967 with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with the Arab Peace Initiative and the resolutions of international legitimacy. We also reaffirm our support for the sovereignty of the Lebanese Republic and the extension of state authority throughout its territory, pursuant to Security Council Resolution 1701. We also support the sovereignty, unity, and stability of the Syrian Arab Republic in a manner that fulfills the aspirations of their people for security and development. The GCC states have always been and remain committed to overcoming crises through dialogue and diplomacy. On that basis, we have sought to build normal relations with Iran, founded on respect for sovereignty, good neighborliness, and non-interference in internal affairs. We have strongly supported mediation efforts regarding the current crisis to spare the region further escalation. Progress in these relations requires Iran to reciprocate these efforts through clear actions, including ending attacks and threats, honoring its international obligations, and ceasing support for armed militias and destabilizing activities. The GCC stresses that any regional or international understandings with Iran must comprehensively address the security concerns of GCC states, including the Iranian nuclear program, ballistic missiles, drones, and support for proxies. Madam President, dear participants, we look forward to Security Council decisions being accompanied by follow-up measures to ensure compliance. Based on a unified Gulf position, we call upon the Security Council and the international community to work towards: one, the immediate and unconditional cessation of Iranian attacks against GCC states and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, whether directly or through proxies; and the implementation of resolution 2817 and guarantees against the recurrence of such attacks; two, ending Houthi terrorist attacks against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and commercial shipping, enforcing the arms embargo on the militia, and preventing support that enables it to continue its attacks in accordance with Security Council relevant resolutions. Three, protecting navigation, vessels, crews, and energy facilities, restoring maritime security and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb and the Red Sea, and returning conditions in the Strait of Hormuz to those existing before the 28th of February 2026, in accordance with international law. Four, holding those responsible for the attacks accountable and requiring Iran to provide full compensation for the damages resulting from its attacks in accordance with international and Human Rights Council Resolution 61/1. In conclusion, I wish to affirm that the GCC states are an active and reliable partner in supporting regional and international security and stability, and a fundamental pillar of the global economy and energy security. In response to the repercussions of the crisis, GCC states acted in coordination to enhance the readiness of their institution, ensure the continuity of vital services and economic activities, and strengthen cooperation in the sectors of energy, transport, logistics, and supply chains. Our countries have demonstrated cohesion and an ability to contain the repercussions, preserve the strength of their economies, continue their development journey, guided by the wisdom and directives of Their Majesties and Highnesses, the leaders of the GCC states. They will continue to fulfill their responsibilities in supporting mediation, peace, development, and humanitarian efforts. The GCC states' commitment to peace and dialogue does not diminish. their legitimate right to defend their security and sovereignty. Likewise, respect for international law and implementation of Security Council resolutions are a shared international responsibility. The security of the Arabian Gulf is an integral part of international security, and protecting the sovereignty and stability of its states is a test for the effectiveness of the collective security system. From this podium, I extend my thanks and appreciation to you for your kind attention. May the peace of God be upon you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Al-Budawi for his briefing. And I will now give the floor to those Council members who wish to make statements. And I give the floor to the representative of Bahrain.

Thank you, Madam President. At the outset, we wish to thank the Presidency of the Security Council for the month, the Republic of Latvia, for swiftly responding to our request to convene this meeting. We thank His Excellency ASG Mr. Khayari and the Secretary-General of the GCC, Mr. Al-Budaiwi, for their valuable briefings. Since the 28th of February, the states of the GCC have been faced with military or ongoing military escalation and security threats. This was due to the wanton and repeated attacks waged by the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as its affiliated armed factions and militias in Iraq, not to mention repeated attacks using ballistic missiles and drones. They have targeted the security and stability of GCC states, the safety of its citizens and residents alike. They have also impacted international airports, the most vital hubs for commercial and civil aviation. They have also targeted ports that constitute a lifeline for global trade. They also attacked energy facilities on which the stability of the global economy depends. They also targeted residential areas that are supposed to be safe havens for families and children. Facilities that were established to serve civilians and facilitate their lives have become targets of ballistic missile and drone attacks. This wanton and unjustified escalation jeopardized the lives of civilians and civilian objects. They have threatened the security and stability of states which were not parties to the war. Nevertheless, they were subjected to attacks that cannot be justified under any pretext. However, the GCC states have shown utmost restraint, and they have pursued and continue to pursue diplomatic efforts to contain the escalation. and to reach a mediated peaceful solution. And in this regard, and on behalf of the GCC states, I wish in my statement to focus on the following points. We commend the extensive diplomatic efforts undertaken by the Sultanate of Oman to reach a comprehensive and peaceful settlement of the Iranian nuclear file. and to address the outstanding security concerns and questions of the GCC states. The GCC states commend the efforts by the State of Qatar and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan for mediation between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran to bring views closer and reach common ground amongst the parties for de-escalation and for the mitigation of tension in the region to advance a durable agreement that can provide a complete and comprehensive end to the crisis. What is even more dangerous is that the Iranian threat to resume attacks now jeopardizes the stability of our entire region. The lives of our civilians and vital civilian infrastructure are now hostage to a reckless military decision that can be undertaken at any given moment by Iran and its proxies in the region. Madam President, we reiterate that the security of the GCC states is indivisible. The security of the Arab Gulf is not merely a regional question, it is a cornerstone for international peace and security. In this regard, the GCC states reiterate that the security of civilians cannot constitute a bargaining chip or a tool for extortion. Vital infrastructure that preserve the lives of millions of people cannot be used as a means to put pressure to bear or as targets of threats to score political goals. or points. The Security Council condemned these attacks in its resolution 2817, with a historic co-sponsorship of 136 states. However, condemnation cannot achieve its intended goal unless it is translated into compliance, accountability, and non-recurrence of attacks. The risks in the Arab Gulf region are stoked by threats to the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb, as well as ongoing attacks against commercial vessels and attempts to impose unlawful restrictions and fees on lawful transit, which in turn threatens energy, food, and global trade supplies. The draft resolution tabled by the Kingdom of Bahrain on behalf of the GCC states and Jordan on the security of navigation on the 7th of April was endorsed by 11 members of the Security Council. However, it was not adopted due to the use of the veto. This failure cannot be morphed into an acceptance of the current status quo. Madam President, the GCC states strongly condemn the repeated terrorist Houthi militia attacks against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including attacks using ballistic missiles and drones, as well as the targeting of civilian and vital infrastructure. We reiterate our full solidarity with the Kingdom and our support to its security, territorial integrity, and sovereignty. based on the indivisibility of the security and stability of GCC states. We call upon member states to designate the Houthi militias as a terrorist group in line with the final communique of the GCC ministerial meeting issued on the 18th of October 2026, and in light of the Security Council Resolution 2624. to dry up all forms of support provided to the militia, enabling them to acquire drone and missile capabilities. We also condemn attacks against commercial vessels and threats against the freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. We reiterate the need for the full implementation of resolutions 2216 and 2722. We reiterate our full support to the unity, sovereignty, and legitimate government of Yemen, as well as all efforts made to reach a comprehensive political solution in accordance with UN terms of reference. Madam President, we reiterate our inherent individual and collective right for self-defense in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter, in line with our commitment to good neighborliness, dialogue, diplomacy, and de-escalation. We reiterate that achieving durable stability and security in the Arab Gulf require an immediate and full cessation of attacks and threats, as well as the full implementation of relevant Security Council resolutions, namely 2817. This requires a guarantee of non-recurrence of attacks. in addition to accountability and the safeguarding of the security of international waterways and the freedom of navigation, including the right of transit through straits used for international navigation under international law. We underline that GCC states must be engaged in any agreement or negotiation on the security of the region or its stability. We reiterate our readiness to work with international partners and the Security Council to ensure the security of our states and of our peoples, to pave the way for the safeguarding of international peace and security. And allow me to add in my national capacity that the Kingdom of Bahrain requested this meeting based on its keenness to keep the Council apprised of the latest dangerous security developments in the Arab Gulf region, as well as the repercussions on regional and international peace and security, namely amid the escalation of attacks against commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Gulf, coupled with growing risks of a renewed military confrontation and open Iranian threats. against neighboring states and vital infrastructure. These developments now jeopardize three vital lifelines on which the security of the region and the prosperity of the world depend: maritime navigation, aerial navigation, and the flow of data. My country, the Kingdom of Bahrain, alongside the states of the GCC and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, have been subjected to about 7,000 Iranian attacks using ballistic cruise missiles and drones, targeting civilian objects and vital and economic facilities. At sea, 1,600 vessels were disrupted in the Strait of Hormuz. More than 23,000 seafarers were stranded aboard their ships. As for aerial navigation, Iranian attacks have targeted civilian airports in the region. As for the third lifeline, the flow of data, Iranian attacks have targeted sea cables, data centers, and AI facilities. In addition to these threats that jeopardize the security of the region, we strongly condemn the ongoing attacks by the terrorist Houthi militias against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including the targeting of Mecca, Medina, Riyadh, and the eastern and southern provinces, in a blatant violation of its sovereignty and a threat to the safety of its civilians and the inviolability of Islamic holy sites. We reiterate our full solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and our support for its right or legitimate right to self-determination, self-defense in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter. We call upon the Security Council to undertake decisive measures to halt these attacks in accordance with relevant resolutions, namely 2216. In line with the statement made by the Secretary General of the GCC, we reiterate that these attacks are not confined to the security of the region, but also impact global food security and international supply chains. We stress the need to safeguard the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandab. We stress the need to ensure the safety of vessels and their crews, and the prohibition of the imposing of unlawful transit fees or restrictions in a violation of international law. We call upon the Security Council to act responsibly and swiftly to ensure the implementation of its resolutions, namely 2817. The Kingdom reiterates the need for full abidance by the provisions of the resolution to translate the wide-scale international support for this resolution into practical steps to pave the way for the restoration of security and stability in the region. The approach of the Kingdom of Bahrain is based on partnership. The security of the Gulf is a collective responsibility that can be realized through cooperation and concerted effort. We appreciate every initiative that seeks to mitigate tension, to ensure de-escalation, and pave the way for dialogue. The participation of relevant states is the greatest guarantee for its durability. In conclusion, We call upon the Security Council to ensure full implementation of resolution 2817 and establish a collective framework for the protection of aerial and maritime navigation, and to ensure the security of the region through dialogue, partnership, and respect for sovereignty. I thank you, Madam President.

I thank the representative of Bahrain for the statement, and I will now give the floor to the representative of the United States.

Thank you, Madam President, and thank you to our briefers. We are here once again to discuss the aggressive behavior by the Islamic Republic of Iran. The regime attacks its neighbors, it fires on commercial ships, it arms terrorist proxies, and it defies this Council at every turn. Iran is deliberately undermining freedom of navigation, the very lifeblood of the global economy. It openly attacks commercial vessels as a tool of statecraft. Its missiles, drones, and unlawful mines in the Strait of Hormuz, and attacks by their Iran-backed Houthis at Bab el-Mandeb and in the Red Sea threaten global energy, food, and humanitarian supply chains. Resolution 2817, adopted with 136 co-sponsors, demanded that Iran cease attacks on shipping and neighboring states. Iran ignores this council. It ignores the overwhelming opinion of the international community. The Houthis, emboldened by Iranian support, now attack Saudi commercial vessels, airports, and energy infrastructure within Saudi Arabia with missiles and drones. They enforce a self-declared illegal embargo to dictate traffic in and around Bab al-Mandeb. They also continue their unceasing attacks on fellow Yemenis, conducting strikes impacting civilians throughout Yemen while laying siege to the city of Taiz, starving hundreds of thousands and displacing hundreds of thousands more. These terrorist actions defy Resolutions 2216 and 2817. This cannot be tolerated. The United States stands with our Gulf partners against Iranian efforts to undermine regional stability. We stand with Saudi Arabia against the Iranian-supported terrorist Houthis. We urge every Council member, including those who have shielded the Iranian regime and the Houthis, to stand for regional peace and stability and the safety of commercial shipping. Until Iran complies with relevant resolutions, this Council must work together to hold them accountable. Thank you.

I thank the representative of the United States for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of the Russian Federation.

Madam President, we wish to thank the Assistant Secretary General, Khalid Khayari, for his report. We welcome the in-person participation in today's meeting of the Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Jason Al Buddhadev, and we are grateful to him for his invaluable contribution to this discussion. For over nine months now, we have been bearing witness to perilous escalation of tensions in the Gulf region, which have been destabilizing the situation throughout the entire Middle East, encroachment upon the sovereignty of states, targets on civilians and civilian infrastructure, attacks on civilian nuclear facilities, threats being generated to maritime security have provoked a chain reaction. Regional conflicts have re-erupted with fresh force, and the global economy is now encountering grave challenges, first and foremost, in terms of food and energy security, and the main burden is being shouldered by the residents of developing states. The root cause of these developments is obvious. In late February, the U.S. and Israel launched an unprovoked aggression against Iran. From the very start of the conflict, peaceful Iranian civilians were being targeted. On the very first day, the world was shocked by the deaths of more than 150 children as a result of a missile strike on a school in Minab. Representatives of the Iranian leadership were killed, including the Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and his family members. Iranian civilian nuclear infrastructure once again came under attack, and this generated direct risks of nuclear and radiological disaster. Washington and West Jerusalem attempted to justify their action with fabricated pretext about certain threats about possession by Tehran of nuclear weapons. These claims were refuted in the conclusions of international experts. Not once did the IAEA record indications of the transfer of nuclear material in Iran for military purposes and issues related to the routine operations of the agency in Iran emerged only after the first wave of U.S.-Israeli strikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities in June 2025. The subsequent escalation engulfed other countries in the region. Tehran’s response action, beyond U.S. military personnel and facilities where they were deployed, affected civilian infrastructure in a number of Arab states, including GCC member states, we wish to reiterate the following: Russia consistently advocates for respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security of all states in the region, barring none. Targets on civilians or civilian infrastructure in any state, be it Bahrain, Jordan, Israel, Iraq, Iran, Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, Oman, or Saudi Arabia, are unacceptable. States in the region essentially became hostages to these developments, which shed light on the question of the security architecture in the region, the establishment of new partnerships and alliances. And this fully applies also to the topic of freedom of navigation in the maritime arteries of the Middle East, where There were no problems prior to late February 2026. The sole reliable way to resolve this issue is through equitable, good-faith negotiations through which root causes of the crisis would be addressed and through which safety and security would be guaranteed and the interests of all states in the region would be taken into account. This is particularly important now, when we are hearing once again about the risks of devastating strikes on Iran. Against this backdrop, we are thankful to states in the region, including Pakistan and Qatar. We thank these colleagues for their mediation efforts in facilitating a resolution between Washington and Tehran. There is no and can be no alternative to a negotiated resolution. We trust that the corresponding efforts will generate tangible fruit. For our part, we stand ready to provide all necessary assistance to achieve that goal. Madam President, for decades now, the military-political crisis in Yemen has been ongoing, and this has a unique genesis, origin, and course. Parties to the crisis have their own manifest interests and positions. We have been stating repeatedly that progress towards a Yemeni resolution needs to be attained not on the basis of developments in the greater Middle East, and not while awaiting a certain period of Yet, of course, these developments do need to be taken into account. In any event, the sole path towards resolving the Yemeni crisis and subsequently stabilizing the situation around that state, including the neighboring waters, is through inclusive intra-Yemeni political dialogue with the participation of all stakeholders, including the Houthis. Russia will do everything possible to facilitate that. Madam President, we are heartened by the fact that nearly all states in the Middle East have embraced the view that there is no alternative to a political, diplomatic resolution to existing disagreements on the basis of international law and by taking into account the interests of all stakeholders. This tenet has been borne out in the regular contacts between the Russian Federation and our friends in the region. A recent example were discussions during the 9th ministerial meeting of the Russia-GCC Strategic Dialogue, which was held in Manama in October. We greatly cherish our friendly, trust-based relations with countries in the region. We stand ready to provide them with all necessary support, including by sparing no effort in discussing prospects for the establishment of a new security architecture in that corner To that end, Russia this year presented and submitted to partners in the region an updated blueprint for collective security in the Persian Gulf. We hope that our ideas and the groundwork, together with the initiatives of other regional and international partners, will generate momentum for practical discussions to create a lasting peace and stability in the region. We stand ready to continue to work together towards that end. Thank you for your attention.

I thank the representative of the Russian Federation for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of Colombia.

Thank you, Madam President. I wish to thank you for convening this meeting, and I thank you for your initiative to draw the Council's attention to the situation in the Gulf. I also wish to thank Assistant Secretary General Kiari and the Secretary General Al-Badawi for the briefings issued. The discussion on this crisis once again reminds us of the fundamental principles of international law that underpin the mandate of this Council and this organization. Security of international straits cannot remain subject to threats or unilateral restrictions imposed by or on coastal states. This is not only an observation that we're making given the current situation in the Gulf, rather it is tied to the very origin of international law with the doctrine Mare Liberum, which was introduced a long, long time ago and which states that the sea cannot become an obstacle for communication between peoples. Neither is this an issue that simply runs its course through the implementation of UNCLOS. In the historic case of the Corfu Canal of 1949, before UNCLOS, the International Court of Justice had recognized the customary right of innocent passage via straits that connect two parts of the high seas and thus serve for international navigation Columbia that is not a state party to UNCLOS recognizes this custom, and to that extent, we reiterate that the freedom of navigation and passage through international straits are common global goods. We recognize that multilateralism is the ideal mechanism through which to ensure their implementation. My country also reiterates the obligatory nature of the resolutions of this Council. We call for the full implementation of the resolution 2817 of 2026 that urges compliance with the principle of freedom of navigations for both merchant and commercial vessels. With that in mind, we condemn measures adopted by Iran which restrict that right. precedent. In the humanitarian context, the crisis seems to range from the loss of life on the maritime waterways in the Gulf to food insecurity throughout the world, with a particular impact being felt by developing countries. The International Maritime Organization has recorded some 129 incidents and many deaths among seafarers in its 6 November statistics. The report received today by the GCC points to the fact that the vulnerability and of and attacks against merchant vessels go beyond coastal states, involve many people, flags, and operators, as well as logistical supply chains. The UN Conventions The UNCTAD, rather, in its 29th of October, regarding disruptions of the state of Hormuz, states that that impact is increasing transport costs, production costs, and the cost of food, particularly for developing countries. For its part, the World Food Programme, in its report of June 2026 on the issue, calculates that the crisis in the Middle East could bring to 45 million people the total of people facing acute food insecurity. We have been raising the alarm on this in this Council. The entire world losing out when violations of international law occur and continue to exist. To conclude, Colombia reiterates its position that the Security Council must continue to monitoring the manifold breaches of the Iranian regime of their international obligations in pursuance of Article 1 of the UN Charter. This article urges the prevention and elimination of threats to peace in accordance with the principles of justice and international law. Maritime security, we regional stability and law and development throughout the world depend on the effective compliance with common legislation.

I thank the representative of Colombia for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Madam President, the DRC wishes to thank you for having convened this briefing dedicated to the situation in the Gulf region and its implications for international peace and security. We also wish to thank Mr. Mohamed Khayari, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations, as well as Mr. Jassim Al-Budawi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, for their briefings and for the information that they have shared with the Council. The DRC has been following with grave concern the persistent nature of conflicts in the Middle East, as well as their ramifications for international peace and security. We are particularly alarmed by the tensions that have been afflicting strategic maritime spaces in the region, specifically the Red Sea, the Strait of Bab el-Mandeb, Gulf of Aden, and the Strait of Hormuz. These passages carry significance. They are of vital importance for international trade, as well as security and safe of global supply deliveries, any prolonged disruption in their operations is liable to incur grave economic consequences, specifically for developing states and those with the most vulnerable economies. In this regard, we wish to recall the fact that freedom of navigation and maritime security need to be guaranteed in accordance with international law, specifically the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, as well as the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations. International maritime pathways cannot become stages for confrontation, nor must they be transformed into tools to exert pressure amid regional conflicts. We continue to believe that safety and security of international maritime pathways is a collective responsibility requiring greater cooperation between the States concerned and the international community. For this reason, we encourage implementation of relevant Security Council resolutions, specifically Security Council resolution 2817, adopted in 2026, in respect for international law and the principles of impartiality and coherence in the implementation of Security Council outcomes. The DRC also wishes to underscore the fact that the protection of merchant vessels, crews, as well as civilian maritime infrastructure must remain the paramount priority. Seafarers who carry out critical functions for the global economy under no circumstances should be targeted, nor should they be exposed to the fallout of armed conflict. Moreover, attacks targeting and critical civilian infrastructure, regardless of the perpetrators, must be condemned. We wish to recall the fact that all parties to conflict have an obligation to respect international humanitarian law, specifically the principles of distinction, proportionality, and proportion, critical infrastructure. for people, specifically water supply facilities, health care facilities, energy infrastructure, and food facilities must be, under all circumstances, protected. The DRC wishes to draw the attention of the Council to the economic and humanitarian consequences of this crisis for developing States. Disruptions to maritime transit to specifically in the Strait of Hormuz, are liable to result in rising energy costs, rising food costs, rising fertilizer costs, with direct consequences shouldered by the most vulnerable populations. For African states, including the DRC, The stability of international energy markets, agricultural suppliers, and food products is of particular significance. We believe, therefore, that the consequences of this crisis should not be viewed solely from the vantage point of regional security, but also in terms of food security, of sustainable development, and global economic stability. In that vein, we encourage initiatives of the United Nations to facilitate the transit of fertilizer and other basic commodities necessary for their production through the Strait of Hormuz. Such measures can contribute to averting a worsening of food insecurity, specifically in developing States. Madam President, the DRC believes that military de-escalation and the resumption of dialogue are the most credible ways to arrive at a lasting peace. We encourage all stakeholders to exercise restraint, to avoid any action that is liable to trigger further confrontation, and to embrace diplomatic dispute resolution mechanisms. In this regard, we applaud the mediation efforts undertaken by States in the region and international partners, as well as those of the UN Secretariat. These efforts should be supported and built upon in order to create propitious conditions for the resumption of inclusive negotiations and for a sustainable political agreement to be arrived at. We also encourage greater cooperation between the UN and the GCC in accordance with existing cooperation mechanisms in order to prevent conflict, to build trust among states in the region, and to together tackle emerging threats. To conclude, we reaffirm our commitment to the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, namely respect for sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity of states, as well as the obligation to resolve international disputes through peaceful means. At the same time, we believe that peace and security in the Gulf region cannot be achieved through purely military solutions. There's a need for sincere political commitment and engagement, respect for international law, protection of civilians, freedom of navigation, and greater regional and international cooperation. We continue to believe firmly that the Security Council must continue to fully play its role in prevention of escalation, in the promotion of dialogue, and the quest for a peaceful, just, lasting solution to this crisis. for the benefit of the people in the region and the international community as a whole. Thank you.

I thank the representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of Liberia.

Thank you, Madam President. The people of the Gulf deserve a horizon wider than the next exchange of fire. and the world cannot afford to have its essential lifelines held in permanent uncertainty. I thank Assistant Secretary General Kere and Secretary General Al-Budaiwi for their briefings. Liberia stands in solidarity with the peoples of the Gulf and Jordan. We condemn attacks against their territories and call for full implementation of resolution 2817. Their sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security must be respected. We equally call on all parties to uphold the Charter, exercise restraint, and refrain from further military escalation. Civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected throughout the region. Our principles must travel across every border. They lose their authority when their application depends on who fires the missile or where it lands. Madam President, for Liberia, a maritime nation, the human consequences of this crisis are equally compelling. Behind every vessel is a crew. Behind every interrupted shipment are communities waiting for food, farmers waiting for fertilizer, and families facing another increase in the cost of living. A seafarer's nationality, a vessel's flag, or its commercial connections cannot by themselves justify an attack. Civilian seafarers must be protected, and those unlawfully held must be released. No crew should have to pay with its life for a conflict it did not choose. Freedom of navigation exercised in accordance with international law, is indispensable. We urge an end to attacks and actions that endanger lawful commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab el-Mandeb, and surrounding waters. For developing countries already facing severe economic pressures, These disruptions can turn a distant conflict into an immediate crisis at home. We therefore support practical arrangements to facilitate essential supplies, including fertilizers and humanitarian goods. Madam President, diplomacy must now produce tangible reductions in danger. Liberia welcomes mediation efforts and urges sustained engagement toward a durable cessation of hostilities. Gulf states must have a meaningful role in negotiations and arrangements affecting their security. Lasting regional security requires dialogue among neighbors and credible commitments to peaceful coexistence. This Council should use its influence to narrow the distance between the parties. Even where we disagree on the origins of this crisis, we must act together to prevent its next escalation. The measure of our diplomacy will be whether people are safer after we have spoken, whether a family can sleep without fear, a port can function, and a civilian crew can return home. The waters that connect our nations must remain lifelines for all of our peoples. Let us ensure that those who depend on them can live, and those who work upon them can come home. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Liberia for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of Panama.

Thank you, Madam President. We wish to thank Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific, Mr. Khaled Kiari, and the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Mr. Hassim Mohammed Al-Budawi. We thank them both for their important briefings. The situation in the region continues to retain the hallmark of the absence of substantive progress. After almost nine months, the impasse persists and its consequences, that is economic consequences, are becoming increasingly patently clear, particularly those stemming from the blockade of one of the most strategic maritime waterways and indeed most important waterways of the world. This situation of uncertainty is particularly seriously affecting the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council. We convey to them our solidarity in the face of attacks suffered, attacks that have imperiled the safety of their civilians, causing human loss, loss of life and severely affecting their economies. In spite of the reiterated positions expressed by this Council repudiating these attacks, we note that our decisions regrettably continue to go unheeded. At the same time, we are seeing the persistence of a strategy of intimidation against nations that have clearly and repeatedly expressed their desire to remain on the margins of a confrontation that they did not begin. We cannot accept as the new normal these positions being expressed, being ignored, nor can we accept the perpetuation of acts that imperil sovereign states and their people. This situation is being added to by the threat posed by the blockade imposed by the Houthis on vessels tied to Saudi Arabia in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and the attacks against cities, city infrastructure, energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. These acts make it patently clear that the crisis is spreading to other theaters in the region. We're also seeing the impact of two strategic maritime corridors, that is, homus and Mundeth, that's amplifying the economic consequences of the conflict. And these attacks and situations are laying bare the risks of the instrumentalization of international waterways as a tool for pressure. Freedom of navigation cannot remain held hostage by the interests of those that claim an attempt indeed to impose their agendas through unilateral threats or restrictions. Madam President, we are also concerned by the humanitarian cost of this crisis. The continuation of threats, the expansion of instability, are both things worsening the living conditions of people that are already facing extreme vulnerability. Yemen is a clear example of the above. The ratcheting up of violence has unleashed new displacement, it has stymied access to food, water, and crucial services, and has hampered the arrival of humanitarian assistance. It is vital to avoid the civilian population continuing to bear the consequence of confrontations that not only threaten regional security, but also deepen pre-existing humanitarian crises. Let us not resign ourselves to the indefinite prolongation of this crisis. We cannot resign ourselves either to a situation whereby sovereign states continue subject to attacks or where international maritime waterways are used as an instrument of coercion. We cannot resign ourselves to civilians continuing to pay the price for this conflict. The credibility of this Council demands that its decisions be respected and that its expressions of opinion and resolutions translate into decisive action. We must act with resolve, therefore, to put an end to this dynamic of confrontation. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Panama for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of Denmark.

Thank you, Madam President. And let me also thank Assistant Secretary-General Khayadi and the Secretary-General of the GCC, Al-Budawi, for their briefings, and I particularly welcome you, Mr. Secretary-General, to the Council today. A close partnership between the UN and regional organizations, including the Gulf Cooperation Council, is vital to supporting regional stability. Denmark welcomes the constructive role of the GCC in using its voice to call for de-escalation and good neighborhood relations. Madam President, Denmark condemns the ongoing illegal attacks by the Houthis in Yemen and on Saudi Arabia, including on civilian infrastructure and commercial vessels. The Houthis bear full responsibility for this escalation, which has been enabled by Iran's longstanding support in violation of multiple Security Council resolutions. We mourn the loss of civilian lives and express our full solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the legitimate government of Yemen. At the same time, Iran has continued its attacks against the GCC states, as well as its attacks against vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Denmark reiterates our condemnation of these acts, which are unacceptable and threaten security of the entire region. We reaffirm our commitment to the security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the Gulf States. We call on the Houthis and Iran to immediately cease all attacks and threats and to comply fully with all Security Council resolutions, including resolution 2817. Madam President, While the GCC states bear the brunt of these direct attacks, the consequences of this escalation extend far beyond the Gulf. Global energy supplies have been disrupted for months, significantly increasing prices around the world. The Straits of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab are critical chokepoints in the global supply chain. Freedom of navigation must urgently be restored in these critical waterways, in accordance with UNCLOS, which must remain the legal anchor for our use of the seas. The unimpeded exercise of navigational rights and freedoms is a cornerstone of peace, security, and shared prosperity. Neither the Houthis nor Iran can be allowed to take this freedom away. Madam President, attacks and disruption of maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea are not only constraining the movement of energy, but also critical input for global agriculture, such as natural gas, fertilizer, ammonia, and sulfur. As this Council has been briefed on numerous occasions, this has huge global repercussions. When combined with the repeated drone strikes on vessels transporting grain and cooking oil in the Black Sea, The result is tens of millions of people facing growing food insecurity and hunger on a massive scale. Once again, the world's poorest and those with the least ability to cope are forced to bear the heaviest burden. Madam President, Denmark calls on Iran and the Houthis to end their attacks and to return to dialogue and diplomacy to restore stability and security to the region. The international community, And this Council must support all efforts, including those of Special Envoy Grunberg in Yemen, to reach a political solution to prevent the region from descending into further conflict. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Denmark for the statement and give the floor to the representative of Somalia.

Thank you, Madam President. I express gratitude to Assistant Secretary General Khayri and Gulf Cooperation Secretary General Al-Budawi for their valuable briefings and assessments of the grave security situation facing the Gulf. Nearly nine months into this conflict, regional tensions remain dangerously high. Continued attacks, disruption to maritime navigation, and threats to critical infrastructure are harming civilians and placing global energy, food, and economic security at risk. Against this backdrop, I would like to make the following four points. First, we stand in solidarity with the GCC member states and Jordan, and reiterate our unequivocal condemnation of attacks against them, including the recent attacks against the brotherly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Attacks against neighboring states must cease, and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of every country in the region must be respected. We condemn all attacks against civilians and critical infrastructure, regardless of their source. We send our condolences to those who lost loved ones and wish speedy recovery to those injured. Second, freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait must be protected in accordance with international law. Resolution 2817 must be fully implemented. Transit through the Strait of Hormuz remains approximately 65% below pre-conflict levels, disrupting the movement of energy, food, fertilizers, and other essential goods. We support practical measures to protect commercial shipping and facilitate the safe transit of fertilizers and other essential materials. In that regard, we acknowledge Oman's diplomatic and practical efforts to reopen and secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing regional conflict. Third, at the same time, further military escalation will not produce lasting security. Recent attacks and reported preparations for renewed strikes show how quickly the conflict could return to full intensity. We urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, and comply with their obligation under international law. Fourth, sustained diplomacy remains the only credible path forward. We welcome Qatar's mediation and recognize Pakistan's role in facilitating the June Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. The parties should return to negotiations without delay. and work towards an agreement that ends hostilities, restores safe navigation, and addresses the legitimate security concerns of all regional states. GCC member states must be fully involved in any negotiations or arrangements affecting their country and the well-being of their people. To conclude, Our delegation remains committed to working constructively with all Council members, regional states, and the United Nations to support de-escalation and meaningful dialogue. We stand ready to contribute to balanced and practical measures that uphold international law and advance lasting peace and security in the Gulf and the wider region. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Somalia for the statement and give the floor to the representative of the United Kingdom.

Thank you, Madam President, and thank you to Assistant Secretary General Chiari and Secretary General Al-Badawi for your briefings. Four points. First, throughout 2026, countries in the Gulf and the wider region have faced repeated Iranian attacks targeting civilian areas, critical infrastructure, and vital economic assets. The United Kingdom stands in solidarity with our Gulf partners and will continue to provide practical support to strengthen their defences and security. Resolution 2817 sent a clear message from this Council: these attacks must stop, and navigational rights and freedoms must be respected. Second, The Strait of Hormuz must be reopened. International shipping and seafarers must be able to transit safely and securely, in accordance with international law as enshrined in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Disruption to vital maritime routes has consequences far beyond this region, including for global trade, energy, and food security, and the most vulnerable bear the greatest cost. We condemn Iran's attacks and attempts to hold the global economy to ransom, and we commend the efforts of mediators, including Qatar, working to avoid further escalation in the region and seeking a negotiated settlement that restores regional stability. The United Kingdom remains committed to diplomacy as the only route to a sustainable solution. Third, the actions of Iran and her proxies including recent attacks by Iran-aligned groups in Iraq, risk triggering a spiralling regional conflict. Iran must cease support to such destabilising activity. And fourth, in Yemen. The Houthis’ decision to resume conflict has brought yet more suffering to the Yemeni people and further undermined regional peace and security. An already grave humanitarian crisis has deepened, Renewed fighting has displaced more than 340,000 people, and the Houthis' continued siege of the city of Taiz has driven food prices up by at least 50% and left hospitals running out of fuel and medicine. We call for rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access to ensure that vital supplies can reach those in need throughout Yemen. We are appalled by the news of the death of a UN employee, Mohammed Alshami, in Houthi detention. We echo the Secretary General’s call for an immediate and impartial investigation. We condemn the Houthis’ continued detention of UN, humanitarian, civil society, and diplomatic personnel, and reiterate our call for their immediate and unconditional release. And beyond Yemen, we underline our solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the internationally recognized Government of Yemen in the face of ongoing attacks. and we reaffirm their right to defend their security and sovereignty in accordance with international law. The situation in Yemen needs a diplomatic solution. The Houthis must stop their offensives with immediate effect, and we underline United Kingdom support for the UN’s work towards a negotiated, inclusive, Yemeni-led and Yemeni-owned political settlement. Madam President, the stability of the Gulf is essential for the countries and the people of the region and for international peace and security. The United Kingdom will continue working with our partners in its pursuit. Thank you.

I thank the representative of the United Kingdom for the statement and I give the floor to the representative of France.

Thank you, Madam President. I wish first and foremost to thank the ASG, Mr. Khalid Khayari, as well as the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, His Excellency Mr. Jassim Mohammed Al-Bodawi, whom I wish to warmly welcome here to the Security Council. Thank you for your briefings. Madam President, stability of the Gulf, which international security depends upon, remains under grave threat, first and foremost, under threat as a result of the destabilizing actions of Iran and militias, which Iran has been arming, financing, and commanding, militias which have been undermining the sovereignty of states spanning Iraq to Lebanon. Just this week, The Houthis struck Riyadh, and they continue to foment a vast humanitarian crisis in Yemen. France, which has recently endured Iranian cyberattacks, which are unacceptable on our own soil, France reaffirms our full solidarity with Gulf states, specifically Yemen and Saudi Arabia. Madam President, alongside partners, we are mobilized. to support stability in the Gulf, that this is a priority which lies at the which lay at the heart of the meeting of the G7 foreign affairs ministers present in Paris on 9 and 10 November. Our action is focused on three facets. First of all, the Iranian nuclear program, which remains a major source of concern. For nearly one year and a half, the IAEA has lost any visibility about the status of Iranian nuclear capabilities, specifically the fate of the stock of 440 kilograms of highly enriched uranium, enriched to 60%, which has no credible justification under civilian program. These are recurrent violations by Iran of its obligations under the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement, which led to the Board of Governors of the IAEA to refer of the file of safeguards to the Security Council. In the light of any threat to proliferation, all Member States have an obligation to implement restrictive measures, which were restored by the Security Council in September 2025 through the snap back. We call upon Iran to revert back to compliance with its safeguards obligations, specifically to permit the return of IAEA inspectors to access all of its nuclear facilities. Second, Freedom of navigation, which is presently under threat from the Gulf to the Red Sea, the Security Council in resolution 2817 condemned Iran's non-compliance in the Strait of Hormuz of this fundamental principle of international law. We stand ready to contribute to the restoration of freedom of navigation through the multinational military mission, which was initiated with the United Kingdom and some 30 partners in the Red Sea and in Bab el-Mandeb. France has already been operational through the Aspidis European operation in a strictly defensive posture. Third, our resolute support for regional partners. This has been the case since the very outset of Iranian strikes, which was a result of Iranian ballistic program. During the recent visits to the Gulf a few weeks ago, our President, Mr. McConry, affirmed the steadfast nature and reliability of our commitment along Alongside our partners, we deployed our means to defend Saudi energy infrastructure, specifically the East-West Yanbu corridor. In the light of the Houthis’ military escalation, adoption yesterday, unanimous adoption of resolution 2837, renewing and enhancing the effectiveness of the 2140 sanctions regime, reflects the commitment of the Security Council to tackling this threat. Madam President, ultimately, only a diplomatic solution to facilitate a way out of this crisis for the restoration of stability in the Gulf, which should be an area of peace, economic cooperation, and human development. France therefore supports mediation efforts underway. We stand ready to support them. Thank you.

I thank the representative of France for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of China.

Thank you, President. I thank ASG Gharey and Secretary General Al-Badawi for their briefings. I welcome the presence of the representative of Iran at today’s meeting. At present, the situation in the Middle East and the Gulf is undergoing profound changes. The conflict persists on multiple levels, and the spillover continues to impact regional security and development. The negotiations between the US and Iran are deadlocked. The situation in Yemen is escalating dramatically. The risk of a large-scale conflict breaking out in the region remains high, and the recent rhetoric suggesting the consideration of renewed hostilities against Iran is particularly concerning. The regional situation has evolved into its current state due to both intricate historical causes and complex present-day factors. Although the path to peace in the Middle East is not a smooth one, We will get there so long as we keep moving forward. The international community should remain firmly committed to peace, step up unity and collaboration, and jointly seek comprehensive, integrated, and effective solutions. I wish to stress four points. First, we must resolutely bring the war to an end. There are no winners in war and conflict. The prerequisite for resolving the issues facing the region is an immediate ceasefire and an end to the fighting. and stopping the unlawful use of force and unilateral military actions. The conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran must not be allowed to drag on. All parties to the conflict should demonstrate a responsible attitude toward the people and history, work in the same direction, and achieve a comprehensive ceasefire at an early date instead of engaging in armed confrontation yet again. Relevant parties in Yemen should exercise restraint and refrain from actions that will escalate the regional situation. Second, we must remain committed to a political settlement. China appreciates Qatar, Pakistan, and others for their tireless mediation efforts. and encourages the U.S. and Iran to firmly choose peace, return to the Islamabad MOU, and resume dialogue and negotiations as soon as possible to reach a comprehensive agreement. All parties in Yemen should address differences and disputes through dialogue and consultation, and relaunch at an early date the process of political settlement of the Yemeni issue. The Security Council should be objective and impartial, and play its due role in de-escalating the situation and promoting peace talks. Third, we must uphold the international rule of law. All parties should uphold the spirit of multilateralism and safeguard the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. The sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of all countries in the region should be respected. Civilians and civilian facilities must not be targeted. This fundamental principle of international humanitarian law must be observed. Unimpeded navigation through key international shipping lanes is closely linked to peace and tranquility in the surrounding regions, particularly in littoral states. China advocates the exercise in good faith of navigational rights under international law, supports all countries in settling disputes over shipping lanes through equal-footed dialogue and consultation, and opposes the politicization, militarization, and instrumentalization of key shipping lanes. Fourth, we must improve security governance. The Middle East and the Gulf should not be an arena for major power rivalry and geopolitical conflict. Peace and stability in the region need to be fostered and safeguarded by all. The people in the Middle East should be masters of their own affairs and independently determine their own future. China hopes to contribute wisdom and solutions to resolving the regional security predicament. supports countries in the region in enhancing mutual understanding, rebuilding mutual trust, improving their relations, and coexisting in harmony, and promotes the building of a new regional security architecture in line with the long-term interests of the peoples of countries in the region and the building of a common home of good neighborliness, development, security, and cooperation. President, China always remains committed to ending hostilities and promoting peace, and advocates resolving disputes through political and diplomatic means. President Xi Jinping has put forward a series of initiatives and proposals on safeguarding peace and stability in the region. The special envoy of the Chinese government on the Middle East issue is conducting shuttle diplomacy in the region and promoting engagement and dialogue among the parties to de-escalate the situation. China stands ready to communicate and coordinate with all parties in the region and play a constructive role in helping the region emerge from the shadow of war and achieve lasting peace and stability at an early date. I thank you, President.

I thank the representative of China for the statement, and I give the floor to the representative of Greece.

General Kiari for his briefing, and I warmly welcome His Excellency Mr. Jazem Mohammed Al-Badawi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, to the Council and thank him for his contribution. Madam President, Greece remains deeply concerned by the situation in the Gulf region. More than eight months into the crisis, strikes against civilians and critical infrastructure, attacks on commercial shipping, and continued military activity demonstrate just how fragile regional security remains. Recent diplomatic efforts offer an opportunity for de-escalation. However, the risk of renewed hostilities is real. Allow me to make the following points. First, maritime security must be restored immediately. The continuing incidents involving commercial vessels in and around the Strait of Hormuz are unacceptable. For Greece, as a leading maritime nation, safe and unimpeded passage remains a fundamental priority. International law, as reflected in UNCLOS, guarantees the right of transit passage through straits used for international navigation. Such passage must not be impeded. No vessel should be subjected to intimidation, mining, unlawful tolls, or arbitrary restrictions. Freedom of navigation is a public good and a fundamental principle of international law. It cannot be held hostage to the present conflict or used as a bargaining chip. We reiterate our call for an immediate and unconditional return to the status quo ante in the Strait of Hormuz, and for the full protection of navigation in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait. These disruptions profoundly affect global trade, energy supplies, food security, and the delivery of essential commodities, particularly to vulnerable countries around the world. Second, there is no sustainable military solution to this crisis. We support all credible efforts towards de-escalation, including the mediation undertaken by Qatar and other regional partners. An immediate cessation of hostilities must create space for substantive negotiations with a view to reaching a comprehensive agreement, not merely another temporary pause before a renewed confrontation. Any durable settlement must also address the legitimate security concerns of the Gulf states, and their participation in negotiation is essential to lasting stability. So is a stronger regional security architecture based on respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, good neighborly relations, and international law. Third, Iran's nuclear program remains inseparable from the wider crisis of trust in the region. The recent IAEA findings and their transmission to this Council underscore the urgency of Iran's full cooperation with the Agency, its compliance with safeguards obligations, and need for reliable, independent verification. Only a negotiated and verifiable solution can restore confidence in the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear activities. Third, We unequivocally condemn attacks against civilians and critical infrastructure in the region. We condemn the Houthis' continuing attacks against Saudi Arabia and their threats against commercial shipping in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait. We stand in solidarity with our Gulf partners and countries in the region, and reaffirm our unwavering support for their sovereignty and territorial integrity in accordance with the UN Charter, and we call for the full respect of the resolution 2817. Madam President, at this critical juncture, the Council must send a clear and united message: attacks against neighbouring states, civilians, and civilian infrastructure must stop; freedom of navigation must be fully restored in all critical maritime waterways; and all parties must demonstrate a genuine commitment to de-escalation and diplomacy. Greece stands ready to support all constructive efforts towards a peaceful, credible, and lasting settlement. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Greece for the statement, and I give the floor to the representative of Pakistan.

Thank you. Thank you, Madam President. I welcome the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council to this meeting and thank him for the valuable briefing. His remarks underscore the deeply troubling implications of the current escalation on the security of the brotherly Gulf countries and the stability of the wider region. I also thank ASG Khalid Khayari for his insights. The critical waterways of the region sustain international commerce and carry essential supplies of energy and other commodities. Heightened tensions and threats to maritime navigation in the region are a matter of serious concern. Pakistan profoundly values its fraternal relations with the brotherly countries of the Gulf region, bound by faith, history, and deep-rooted people-to-people ties. Their security and prosperity are of immense importance to Pakistan. Allow me to emphasize the following points: First, the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security of all regional states must be upheld. Pakistan unequivocally condemns all attacks against brotherly GCC countries, and we stand in full solidarity with their governments and peoples. We deeply appreciate their support for dialogue, diplomatic engagement, and specific settlement of disputes. Second, attacks against civilian objects, including airports, energy installations, and other civilian infrastructure, are unacceptable. Pakistan condemns in the strongest terms the Houthi militia's attacks and threats against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including its civilian infrastructure and vessels engaged in lawful trade with the Kingdom. These actions endanger regional peace, undermine navigational freedoms, and disrupt international commerce. We stand firmly and in complete solidarity with the government and people of the brotherly Kingdom and reaffirm our unwavering support for its sovereignty, territorial integrity, security, and prosperity. Third, maritime security is a shared international interest. Disruption of commercial shipping and attacks on merchant vessels, both in Bab el-Mandab and the Strait of Hormuz, has underscored that crises at sea have grave implications for the continent and countries. These actions endanger seafarers, undermine navigational freedoms, and jeopardize regional stability. The attacks and threats must end. The volatility at these maritime choke points have not only imperiled peace and stability, but also skyrocketed energy prices and heightened fear of global food insecurity, disproportionately affecting vulnerable economies. Navigational rights and freedoms must be respected, commercial shipping protected, and humanitarian supplies must be allowed to reach those in need. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime trade route for transit of one-third of global traded crude oil and significant share of global fertilizer trade. Its geostrategic location also makes it vital for region’s security and stability. Pakistan supports the restoration of normal passage, protection of vessels and crews, and safe, unimpeded commercial navigation. Fourth, for a lasting peace and security, the root causes and the drivers of conflict and instability in the region should be addressed. Ways must be found for building a regional framework of common security peaceful coexistence, and mutual prosperity and development. Fifth, dialogue and diplomacy must guide the way forward in the region. Pakistan's own diplomatic endeavors reflect our conviction that lasting stability requires respect for sovereignty, civilian protection, and negotiated solutions. All attacks must stop. Communication channels should remain open. and regional initiatives and the Secretary-General’s good offices must receive sustained international support. Pakistan remains committed to continuing its own resolute efforts towards that end. Madam President, The Council must unite to demand an end to all military provocations and unlawful attacks, protect civilians and commercial shipping, and advance peaceful solutions. Pakistan will continue working with its brotherly and friendly countries and international partners to promote de-escalation, maritime security, and lasting peace and stability in the region and beyond. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Pakistan for the statement, and I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of Latvia. Allow me to thank Assistant Secretary General Mr. Khalid Hyari for his briefing, and warmly welcome the Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, His Excellency Mr. Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, to this meeting and thank him for his valuable remarks. The global economic and humanitarian toll of the conflict in the Gulf is mounting. with the cost becoming unbearable for the most vulnerable people around the world and in Africa, South Asia, and other regions, especially in active conflict zones and areas of humanitarian emergency. Iran has continued its belligerent actions against its neighbors and the global economy, restricting free and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, an international waterway which supports countless crucial supply chains, and striking commercial vessels, just as it has been striking civilian infrastructure in its neighboring states in the Gulf and beyond, directly violates Security Council Resolution 2817 and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Over the past weeks, more civilian vessels have been struck by Iran’s naval mines, presenting unacceptable threat to one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. Latvia categorically condemns the attacks perpetrated by both Iran and its supported Houthis, and we reiterate our solidarity with the GCC countries in the face of the attacks against civilians and civilian and critical infrastructure perpetrated by Iran and by Iran's backed Houthis. The threat to maritime security extends beyond the Gulf. In the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, the Iran-backed Houthis continue to endanger freedom of navigation through intimidation and attacks on commercial vessels, threatening another vital artery of global trade. Unlawful strikes on commercial shipping and maritime routes, along with those illegally perpetrated by Russia in the Black Sea, are not legitimate acts of war or exercise of self-defense. Such attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure are grave violations of international law and international humanitarian law, plain and simple. An immediate cessation of attacks on civilian vessels is an absolute imperative. The Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait must be allowed to perform their critical function as global arteries of trade and development without any impediments. International waterways are governed by clear legal principles. and there is no justification for interfering with freedom of navigation. And Latvia is committed to supporting all international efforts to restore freedom of navigation. We also reiterate our support for diplomacy and sincerely appreciate the mediation efforts of Qatar, Oman, and Pakistan, among others. We also reaffirm our support for a comprehensive long-term diplomatic solution to the threat that Iran poses to the region and the global order, including its escalatory nuclear program. As we insist on diplomacy and dialogue, let us recall that the role of the Security Council and the UN as a whole is to facilitate peace and maintain stability. The joint efforts of the Gulf Cooperation Council and the individual actions of its members have been crucial in this regard, demonstrating the value of regional engagement, mediation, and negotiated solutions, while rejecting the normalization of aggression. Latvia welcomes these efforts and underlines that it is of utmost importance that the UN, together with the GCC, advocate for effective multilateralism, respect for international law, and the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. We must continue a principled defense of these values wherever they are threatened, in the Middle East, Ukraine, or anywhere else. In this spirit, we call for continued cooperation between the UN and the GCC as we pursue efforts to de-escalate tensions, uphold maritime security and freedom of navigation, and ensure that Iran never acquires a nuclear weapon. Latvia will remain a constructive partner and will continue to call on Iran to comply with its obligations under international law. I resume my function as the President of the Council, and I now give the floor to the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim, in the name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful. Thank you, Madam President. Our participation in today's meeting is intended to clarify the root causes of the current situation in the Persian Gulf region. Certain members of this Council, in particular Western members, in coordination with the aggressors, are attempting to distort the facts, ignore the root causes of the situation, and reverse their roles of victim and aggressor. We listened carefully to the briefers and the statements of the Council members. We regret the positions taken by some Council members, particularly its Western members. Their statements reflect a familiar pattern of double standards and blatant hypocrisy. Similarly, the representative of the United States is in no position, legally, politically, or morally, to lecture or accuse Iran. The United States is the aggressor, not the victim. It launched an unwarranted war of aggression against Iran in flagrant violation of the UN Charter and fundamental principles of international law. Against this background, I wish to make the following points. First, the root causes of the current situation are clear. The United States and the Israeli regime launched unprovoked wars of aggression against Iran on 13 June 2025 and again since 28 February 2026. Throughout this aggression, they showed complete disregard for international law, especially basic principles of international humanitarian law. During these brutal wars, Iran's supreme leader, senior political and military officials, nuclear scientists, and academics were assassinated. Widespread and indiscriminate attacks against also targeted civilians and civilian infrastructure, including industrial facilities, bridges, hospitals, airports, transport, transport networks, cultural heritage sites, sport facilities, and energy infrastructure. More than 5,000 innocent people, including 254 children, and 251 women have lost their precious lives in these brutal wars. On the first day of the February aggression, two waves of U.S. Tomahawk missiles struck a school in Minab, killing 168 children. On the same day, the U.S. strike on Lamard Stadium killed at least 21 civilian, including children, and wounded approximately hundreds others. It marked the first combat use of the precision strike missile, PRSM. On 13 March 2026, U.S. Secretary of War Peter Hegseth declared, "No quarter, no mercy." International humanitarian law prohibits such a declaration and classifies it as a war crime. The U.S. President subsequently threatened to destroy Iran's power plant and bridges. U.S. forces then struck five bridges in a single night. As recently as 8 November 2026, the US president threatened again to destroy 38 bridges across Iran within one hour. These are war crimes. In response to these acts of aggression, Iran exercised its inherent right of self-defense in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter. Its defensive and lawful measures were directed against US military facilities bases, and assets in the region used to launch attacks against Iran. Second, the insecurity surrounding the Strait of Hormuz is a direct consequence of the aggression against Iran and the United States unlawful measures. These measures include attacking Iran's port and maritime installations and commercial vessels. and the military and maritime blockade of Iran's ports imposed with the aim of collectively punishing an entire nation. The deliberate deprivation of an entire civilian population of food, medicine, and other essential necessities constitute a grave violation of international humanitarian law and amounts to war crimes and crimes against humanity. Responsibility also extends to those states that enabled and facilitated the aggression by making their territories, military bases, air space, logistical facilities, and intelligence infrastructure available for the aggressors, in violation of their obligations on the international law and the UN Charter. Madam President, the United States cannot attack and bomb Iran, violate its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and target civilian infrastructure, threaten Iranian with annihilation, impose a military and maritime blockade, and resort to unlawful coercive scheme, including the so-called Economic Operation Outcast and Iron Gate Task Force, to collectively punish a population of 19 million and then expect the Strait of Hormuz to return to normal, as if nothing had happened. Third, Iran remains committed to peace and stability in Persian Gulf. Iran has consistently maintained that regional security arrangements must be established by countries of the region themselves. without foreign interference and in accordance with international law and the UN Charter. The US-Israeli aggression has once again demonstrated that the presence of foreign military forces and US military bases in the region are major source of insecurity, instability, and tension. They also place maritime safety at serious risk. Fourth, Iran’s position on Security Council resolution 2817 is clear and well documented. Our legal position has been set out in detail in communications circulated as official documents of the Security Council S/2026/202 and the General Assembly A/AT/680. Iran rejects this politically motivated resolution. It was adopted through a non, a one-sided and politicized process that ignored the root causes of the situation, denied Iran's inherent right of self-defense, and failed to identify the United States and the Israeli regime as the aggressors. In fact, the adoption of resolution 2817 was a grave abuse of the Security Council's authority, using the council to legitimize aggression, reverse the legal role of aggressors and victim, and undermine the peremptory prohibition of the use of force enshrined in Article 2, paragraph 4 of the UN Charter. Let me reiterate, no Security Council resolution can deprive a member state of its inherent right of self-defense in the face of armed attack. Fifth, Iran has never closed the door to diplomacy. Over the past two years, Iran has repeatedly engaged in negotiations in good faith. Yet, on each occasion, the United States chose aggression and threat over diplomacy, which continue to this day. These repeated experiences have created profound distrust and serious doubt about the prospects of renewed negotiations. without credible guarantees against the repetition of such unlawful actions. The way forward is clear. If Washington is genuinely committed to a diplomatic solution, it must immediately and unconditionally end its aggression, provide credible guarantees of non-repetition, respect Iran’s sovereign rights, Lift the maritime blockade and all other unlawful unilateral coercive measures, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to diplomacy. Madam President, let us be clear: any renewed war of aggression by the United States and the Israeli regime will be met with an immediate and decisive response, without hesitation. directed against the source of aggression, wherever it may be. Iran will exercise its inherent right of self-defense in accordance with international law, as it has done before. Iran will continue to take all necessary and appropriate measures to defend its people, its security, vital interests, and its sovereignty and territorial integrity. maintain a credible and sustainable deterrent, and ensure that no further aggression is repeated. This Council must direct its demand at the aggressor, not the victim. It must call upon the United States to cease all its unlawful actions and threats, honor its obligation under the UN Charter, and fully comply with international law. On the situation in Yemen, we categorically reject the baseless accusations directed against my country concerning Yemen. Iran has consistently advocated for peace and stability in Yemen and remains committed to respecting its sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity. It is High time for the Security Council to adopt a realistic, balanced, and forward-looking approach. Achieving lasting peace in Yemen requires a fundamental shift in the Council’s approach. The Council must acknowledge the realities on the ground, respect the will of the Yemeni people and their right to determine their own future, uphold Yemen’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, and above all, address the root causes of the conflict. Without such an approach, a lasting political solution will remain elusive. Finally, Madam President, the statement by Mr. Al-Bodhavi and the representative of Bahrain were unbalanced, one-sided, and politically motivated. We categorically reject their baseless allegations. They read the book from chapter three or four, and later on, even confused the chapters. The fact is that certain countries in the Persian Gulf region have knowingly facilitated U.S.-Israeli aggression by placing their territory, air space, military facilities, and other logistical and operational capabilities at the disposal of the aggressors for the planning, preparation, and execution of attacks that clearly amount to war crimes. Such internationally wrongful acts in themselves constitute a violation of the Charter of the United Nations and fundamental principles and norms of international law and entail responsibility. Furthermore, such actions constitute participation in and assistance to an act of aggression within the meaning of General Assembly Resolution 3314. Accordingly, a state's concern bear responsibility for their international wrongful acts, including their participation in and assistance to act of aggression, and remain under an obligation obligation to make full reparation for the all injury, including material and moral damage caused to the Islamic Republic of Iran, its nationals, and its civilian and public infrastructure as a consequence of their wrongful acts. Madam President, representative of France accuses Iran of cyber attack. We categorically reject those accusations. That accusation doesn't merit even the response. Thank you, Madam President.

I thank the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran for the statement. The representative of Bahrain has asked for the floor to make a further statement. I give him the floor.

Thank you, Madam President. The distinguished delegate of Iran spoke of the root causes, and I wish to recall resolution 552, which addressed this question and which condemned attacks by Iran against commercial vessels in 1984. Perhaps he may wish to refer to that. regarding the root causes. As for our statement on behalf of the GCC member states, we reject any attempts to justify Iranian attacks under any pretext. These attacks have targeted the territories of our states as well as the territory of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. These facts cannot be distorted. Our territories have been subject to more than 7,000 attacks by ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones, impacting civilians, civilian objects, civilian airports, and vital infrastructure. Our states have done their part. pursuing extensive diplomatic efforts to avoid an escalation in the region. We reiterate that the inherent right to self-defense in accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter does not provide for attacks against the sovereignty of other states, as well as the targeting of their civilians and civilian objects, and no political considerations can be used as pretexts to justify such attacks. Security Council resolution 2817 was clear. It characterized these attacks as wanton or heinous, and we wish to remind the delegate of Iran of Article 25, which provided that Member States shall apply Security Council decisions of the Security Council in accordance with the Charter. The Security Council expressed its position in that resolution, condemning these attacks, calling for their immediate cessation, and it was backed and endorsed and co-sponsored by 136 states. The Human Rights Council, in its decision 1/61, reiterated the need for accountability and for compensation of damage due to these attacks. We reiterate that the freedom of navigation on international waterways is a right that must be, or that is enshrined in international law, and this right cannot be subjected to unlawful fees or restrictions to undermine the use of these waterways. Civilian objects cannot be used as bargaining chips. or tools for extortion. The GCC states have not chosen escalation. They have shown restraint, and they have pursued diplomatic efforts. We are committed to this approach. The restoration of security and stability does not start with attacks or pretexts used to justify these attacks. It starts with respect for state sovereignty and territorial integrity and unity, and full respect of resolution 2817 to ensure non-recurrence and repetition of these attacks. I thank you, Madam President.

I thank the representative of Bahrain for the statement. The representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran has asked for the floor to make a further statement. I kindly indicate that this is the only opportunity. There will be no further statements granted. You have the floor.

Thank you, Madam President. I would be very brief. We firmly reject the unfounded allegations repeated by the representative of Bahrain. The facts on the ground are clear, and Bahrain cannot deny it. As I said in my earlier statement, countries in the Persian Gulf region, including Bahrain, have facilitated the U.S. aggression against Iran. They have violated the UN Charter and international law and must be held accountable. We recommend that the representative of Bahrain behave responsible as its Council requires of its members. The resolutions 2817, on resolution 2817, I wish to underscore that under international law, the Security Council is bound to exercise its authority in full conformity with the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. Thank you, Madam President.

The representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran. I have a representative of Bahrain who has asked for the floor to make a further statement on the second one, and I hope we can conclude.

I apologize, Madam President, for asking for the floor once more. I wish to once again remind the delegate of Iran that this meeting is broadcasted and that He can refer to these meetings that we held, to refer back to the positions of Member States in the Security Council, namely on the implementation of resolution 2817, which condemned Iran and condemned these attacks perpetrated against our states. There can be no justification for these attacks. I thank you, Madam President.

I thank the representative of Bahrain for the statement. And there are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers, so the meeting is adjourned.

I like this smell.

The 10,272nd meeting of the Security Council is called to order. The provisional agenda for this meeting is: Report of the Secretary General on the Sudan and South Sudan. The agenda is adopted. In accordance with rule 37 of the Council's provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of South Sudan to participate in this meeting. It is so decided. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of item 2 of the agenda. I wish to draw the attention of the Council members to document S/2026/821, the report of the Secretary-General on the situation in Abyei. Members of the Council have before them document S/2026/900, the text of a draft resolution submitted by the United States of America. The Council is ready to proceed to the vote on the draft resolution before it. I shall put the draft resolution to the vote now. Will those in favour of the draft resolution contained in document S/2026/900 please raise their hand? Those against? Abstentions? The result of the voting is as follows: 13 votes in favour, 0 votes against, 2 abstentions. The draft resolution has been adopted as resolution 2838 of 2026. I now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements after the vote. I give the floor to the representative of the United States.

Thank you, Madam President. The United States thanks Security Council members for extending UNICEF’s mandate through November 15, 2027. Last year, this Council tied UNICEF’s future to measurable progress by Sudan and South Sudan. Today’s resolution sharpens those benchmarks. It states who must act, what they must deliver, and how this Council will measure progress. On the political track, the parties must hold regular, results-oriented negotiations on Abyei's final status and document the outcomes. The August 10th Joint Political and Security Mechanism meeting was a start. Sudan and South Sudan must produce results. On security, South Sudan must honor its commitment to withdraw its forces from Southern Abyei on a defined timeline. Sudan must ensure its armed forces refrain from any military operations in the area. The Rapid Support Forces must withdraw from Abyei completely. The Council has spoken. The RSF has no political or administrative legitimacy in Abyei. Sudanese authorities and the Transitional Government of South Sudan must also accelerate the establishment of the Abyei Police Service and expedite visas for all 640 authorized UN police. The UN must also deliver the first formed police unit within six months and a civilian deputy head of mission within three months. These benchmarks are not formalities to be acknowledged and set aside, nor can their implementation be postponed or pursued by half measures. They will demand urgent and sustained action, not the slow, incremental steps of the past. An operational police presence in Abyei reduces crime. Complete withdrawal of unauthorized forces promotes stability and reduced weapons proliferation in the demilitarized zone. After 15 years, the parties have the tools to change Abiy’s course. We will judge them by what they deliver. We are also deeply concerned by China’s abstention. China says it supports UN peacekeeping, yet it opposed the benchmarks placed on Sudan and South Sudan. China also opposed holding itself to a shorter timeline on its formed police unit deployment. China insisted that its foreign police unit be given six months to deploy to Abyei. China has had an FPU registered at the rapid deployment level of the UN’s Peacekeeping Capability Readiness System for close to five years. China agreed with the UN to deploy it to any mission within 60 days of notification. To maintain that readiness, China receives reimbursement from assessed contributions. Every member state, including the United States, is paying for China to be ready to deploy within 60 days. Six months is three times that standard. China should live up to the obligation it has accepted and that we are all paying for. Crime is rising, and the mission still has none of its three authorized foreign police units. Abyei cannot wait. Lastly, we thank UNICEF’s peacekeepers and the troop and police contributing countries for their service in these dangerous conditions. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the United States for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Madam President, I have the honour to take the floor on behalf of A3, namely Liberia, Somalia, and my own country, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The A3 voted in favour of the resolution renewing the mandate of the UN Interim Force for Abyei until the 15th of November, 2027. We wish to thank the US as penholder for the efforts they made over the course of negotiations, and we welcome the improvements made to the final text. This vote bears witness to the firm conviction of the A3 that UNISFA remains crucial to the maintenance of stability, protection of civilians, and the prevention of any further worsening in the security situation in Abyei. This is particularly true in the context of the persistent conflicts in Sudan and South Sudan, as well as in the context of growing threats posed by armed groups. The A3, however, remains gravely convinced by the fact that the future renewal of UNISFA's mandate remains tied to progress made against political benchmarks. While we do fully recognize the importance of the implementation of pending agreements, as well as the importance of progress within the political process, the A3, however, vehemently believes that the future of a peacekeeping operation cannot be subjugated to political progress, which, as far as the lion's share is concerned, is beyond the mission's control. Such an approach risks forcing the mission, and ultimately the citizens it has the mandate to protect, forcing them to bear the consequences of the absence of progress on the political front. In this connection, the A3 take note of improvements made to the resolution, namely of the greater attention given to the situation on the ground, as well as the imperatives to protect civilians, and the operational realities on the ground, as well as the consultations with Sudan and South Sudan. However, the A3 wishes to underscore that this consideration must remain at the heart of any future decisions regarding UNISFA, and these considerations, as outlined above, cannot be cast aside in favour of a laser focus on achieving political benchmarks. Consequently, we reaffirm that any decision pertaining to the Mission’s future must be underpinned by a comprehensive assessment of conditions prevailing on the ground, as well as an assessment of protection of civilians. Indeed, that must be the heart of the aforementioned assessment. President, A3 condemns the attacks perpetrated against UNISFA personnel, in particular the deadly attack which occurred in Kadugli on 13 December 2025. We underscore the importance of ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. It is equally crucial to strengthen the safety and security of peacekeeping personnel. The A3 also calls for the immediate withdrawal of all unauthorized armed elements in the Abyei region, including the Rapid Support Forces, whose presence and interference continues to imperil both stability and the implementation of existing agreements. Finally, the A3 beseech both Sudan and South Sudan to intensify both their cooperation and their political engagement. This with the unwavering support of the African Union and the United Nations in order to guarantee the full implementation of the 2011 agreement and to achieve a mutually agreed resolution of the issue of the final status of Abyei. A3 reaffirms its commitment to supporting the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei and our commitment to ensuring that it has the necessary resources and the operational conditions required to effectively discharge the mandate that has been entrusted to it. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of the Russian Federation.

Madam President, the Russian Federation abstained. During the vote on the draft Security Council resolution on the 12-month extension of the mandate for the UN Interim Security Force for Abiyei, unfortunately, From the very start of expert consultations, it was proposed that the Council base itself on the elements from last year's resolution 2802, which did not enjoy unanimous support. This resulted in the ultimatum-like approach being preserved vis-à-vis the fate of the UN presence in the contentious region of Abyei. We are heartened by the fact that in the final hour, the authors decided to moderate the text, to remove unrealistic timelines for the fulfillment of certain benchmarks, to partially adjust the assessments of the military presence in the sector. At the same time, a rigid linkage was maintained regarding the future of UNISFA and success in Khartoum and Juba’s fulfillment of the benchmarks, including certain tangible results related to negotiations on the final status of Abyei. This is a fundamental issue. The UN presence there was established in order to ward off an administrative vacuum as well as possible imbalances in the area of security. UNISFA was tasked with oversight of the territorial dispute resolution around that region pending conclusion by Sudan and South Sudan of a comprehensive agreement on the status of Abyei and the demarcation of their shared border. Consequently, the closure prior to conclusion of this agreement runs counter to this fundamental objective. Nor could we support the calls in the text for Sudan and South Sudan to make haste in the appointment of the Deputy Civilian Head of Mission. Khartoum has already gave its formal consent to this and is open to engaging in discussions about specific candidatures, and Juba too has adopted a constructive posture. This issue should more appropriately be addressed to the Secretariat of the UN. Nor did the authors fully reflect our revisions regarding investigation of incidents with attacks on Blue Helmets, nor do we share the need to overemphasize emphasize the topics of climate, women, and children. Lastly, we categorically reject the deliberate replacement throughout the text of the term "Government of Sudan" with "Sudanese authorities." We do not merely view this as hair-splitting. This belies the resolute unwillingness of certain members of the Council to recognize the current Sudanese leadership as the sole legitimate authority in the country, and there's a similar position that is seen vis-à-vis South Sudan. This approach, in our view, not only reflects a political shortsightedness, but also blatant disrespect of UN member states. We should like to hope that in November of 2027, there will be a more balanced and objective approach that will prevail vis-à-vis the prospects of UNISFA. Thank you for your attention.

I thank the representative of the Russian Federation for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Pakistan.

Madam President, Pakistan voted in favor of the resolution to reaffirm its support for UNISFA. and its indispensable role in protecting civilians, preventing escalation, and maintaining stability in Abyei. At the same time, we wish to place on record our continued reservations regarding the linkage between the Mission’s future renewal and progress in the political process, which depends largely on decisions by Sudan and South Sudan, beyond UNISFA’s control. We support the underlying political objectives. However, These should be pursued through sustained political engagement, rather than becoming conditions that could jeopardize the Mission’s continued presence. We sincerely hope that the relevant provisions of this resolution will not be invoked in the future to justify a premature drawdown or withdrawal of UNISFA without due regard to its essential stabilizing role in Abyei and the wider region. Decisions concerning the Mission’s future must remain guided by the security situation on the ground, civilian protection needs, and its continuing stabilizing role. We also emphasize that the mission must be provided with adequate financial, logistical, and operational resources to effectively implement its mandate, including for the deployment of all three authorized formed police units. I thank you very much.

I thank the representative of Pakistan for the statement, and then I give the floor to the representative of France.

Thank you, Madam President. I wish to thank the United States for their penholder-ship efforts over the course of the negotiations. We voted in favor of this text. Because we support the vital role of UNISFA amid a regional security landscape that is punctuated by the violent conflict in Sudan and instability in South Sudan, this mission helps to preserve the peace in Abyei. Last year, the Council introduced a number of criteria for the mandate in order to facilitate progress. Although there is still progress to be made prior to resolving the question of the status of Libya, this approach has facilitated progress that had been long anticipated. We welcome the fact that the new mandate is focused on the achievement of clearly identified political aims. We thank the penholder, Madam President, for having preserved the police and troop ceiling levels and having promoted through the mandate dynamic and effective action of the mission. We recall our commitment in principle to political mandates and political objectives and mandates determining the resources that are mobilized, rather than the opposite. Despite the difficult circumstances, we invite Sudan and South Sudan to harness the presence of the mission in order to make progress towards a lasting resolution of their border dispute. Thank you.

Statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of China.

Thank you, Madam President. Over the years, UNIFPA has overcome difficult conditions. and played an indispensable role in protecting civilians in Abyei and easing intercommunal tensions. As a major DCC, China has actively supported UNISFA in fulfilling its mandate and has participated constructively in consultations on the draft resolution renewing its mandate. However, regrettably, The draft resolution continued to establish multiple benchmarks relating to the political process in Abyei and other matters, linking them to future renewals of UNISFAS mandates and placing undue pressure on Sudan and South Sudan. China has consistently maintained reservations about this approach and therefore abstained from voting on the draft resolution. I wish to make the following points. First, The long-standing unresolved RBA issue is a result of a combination of historical and contemporary factors, as well as internal and external ones. It should not be attributed entirely to a lack of political will or action on the part of the parties concerned. UNISFA was first established to maintain peace and stability in RBA and create an enabling environment for Sudan and South Sudan to resolve the issue through dialogue and consultations. Second, over the past year, Sudan and South Sudan have made progress on several fronts, including resuming meetings of the Joint Political and Security Mechanism, deploying full police units, and appointing a civilian deputy head of mission. Their efforts to advance the political process in Abyei and support UNISFA in implementing this mandate deserve full recognition. The international community should fully respect the sovereignty and ownership of Sudan and South Sudan, recognize the difficulties facing both countries, maintain patience and realistic expectations, and avoid pushing for hasty results. Third, UNISFA has taken proactive measures and achieved tangible results in protecting civilians, easing inter-communal tensions, and improving people's livelihoods. These achievements have been widely welcomed by the people of RBA, the governments of Sudan and South Sudan, and Council members. The Secretary-General also underscored the importance of UNISFA in maintaining regional security and stability in his assessment report. Any future adjustments to UNISFA’s deployment by the Council should be based on progress towards a political settlement and conditions on the ground, respect the wishes of host countries, and be decided upon with prudence and responsibility. China stands ready to work with all parties to uphold unity and cooperation within the Security Council, support UNISFA in effectively implementing its mandate, and contribute to helping Sudan and South Sudan reach an early and proper resolution of the Abyei issue, and promote peace and stability in the region. President, The representative of the United States have just made unfounded accusation against China in his statement. China was shocked and firmly rejects these accusations as a permanent member of the Security Council, the second largest financial contributor to the UN peacekeeping operations. and a major TCC to a number of peacekeeping missions, including UNISFA. China has consistently supported UN peacekeeping operations and maintained close cooperation with the Secretary at high level and fulfilled its obligations. Over the years, successive generations of Chinese peacekeepers have served with dedication and an unwavering sense of duty. And their outstanding performance have earned recognitions from the UN or host countries, and they have demonstrated their commitments to their noble missions through concrete actions. China's deployment of a foreign police unit to UNIFPA represents an important contribution to UN peacekeeping operations and to peace and stability in Abyei. The deployment of the foreign police unit is proceeding in an orderly manner. There is simply no question of any delay as alleged by the United States. China will continue to work closely with the United Nations Secretary to ensure the timely deployment of the unit. China's actions should be praised instead of criticized and accused. Rather than making baseless accusations against other countries, the United States would do better to make genuine, concrete efforts to promote regional peace and stability. I thank you.

I thank the representative of China for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of South Sudan.

Madam President, South Sudan welcomes the adoption of the resolution renewing the mandate of UNISFA and reaffirming its commitment to cooperating with the United Nations and the Republic of the Sudan towards the effective implementation in the interest of peace and stability in Abyei and along the border between the two countries. While welcoming this decision, We regret that South Sudan, despite being a host country, was not formally consulted during the drafting process. We also regret that some of our legitimate concerns were not adequately reflected in the final resolution. Madam President, South Sudan wishes to emphasize that adding or expanding benchmarks in itself cannot guarantee progress. Benchmarks must be accompanied by genuine cooperation, mutual recognition of the parties concerned, and the political will necessary for implementation. As we stated during the adoption of the mandate last year, the most important benchmark for all efforts should ultimately be the achievement of peace itself. Our collective efforts should therefore concentrate on encouraging cooperation and assisting the parties to achieve that objective, rather than introducing additional benchmarks that may prove difficult to implement. South Sudan reiterates its established positions on the outstanding issues concerning Abyei. We believe, however, that these matters should not become points of contention within this Council. They are best addressed through the existing bilateral and joint mechanisms, which have continued to make commendable efforts with the support of and encouragement of the regional and international partners. We therefore encourage the Council to sustain its support for these mechanisms and facilitate an environment conducive to cooperation, dialogue, and peaceful resolution of outstanding issues. I thank you, Madam President.

I thank the representative of South Sudan for the statement. And there are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers, so the meeting is adjourned.