Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy
Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council
meeting on cooperation between the UN and the League of Arab
States.
The UK strongly supports coordination between the UN and the
League of Arab States on matters of international peace and
security.
The League of Arab States is an important and valuable partner in
the region. One that has consistently used its voice to call for
de-escalation and progress towards peace.
This includes efforts to bring about ceasefires and alleviate the
suffering of the people in the region over the past 15
months.
After more than a year of devastating bloodshed in Gaza the
ceasefire and hostage release deal offers hope.
We must ensure this ceasefire holds and that we have a smooth
transition into phase two.
We must also see an immediate surge of aid into Gaza in
accordance with the terms of the deal.
Israel must ensure humanitarian access and the adequate provision
of humanitarian aid after implementation of the UNRWA legislation
on 30 January, according to its obligations as an occupying
power.
The ceasefire offers an opportunity which we must seize to pursue
a lasting peace which offers a credible pathway towards a
two-state solution.
Turning to Lebanon, the agreement between Israel and Lebanese
Hizballah has also offered hope for civilians whose lives have
been devastated by more than a year of conflict.
It is a first step toward a long-term political solution, and we
call upon the parties to fulfil the obligations within this
agreement and in line with Security Council Resolution
1701.
On Syria, its people are finally free of Assad and there is real
hope that they can finally take control of their
future.
The UK remains committed to a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned
political transition leading to an inclusive, non-sectarian and
representative government that can provide a secure and peaceful
future.
President, we must also be clear on the malign role of Iran and
its partners in undermining peace and security across the
region.
The Iranian regime exports violence and instability and it has
had a hand in all of these conflicts.
We call upon Iran to cease its support for these groups and
respect the resolutions passed by this Council.
President, let me conclude by underlining the importance of close
partnership between the UN and League of Arab States in pursuing
resolutions to these conflicts and securing lasting peace and
prosperity across the region.
The UK will continue to champion coordination between these two
institutions which can make a significant contribution to
tackling regional, security, development and climate challenges.
Updates to this page
