Deputy Permanent Representative of Armenia participated in the UN Security Council Open Debate on «Situation in the Middle East»

Mr. President,

Allow me to express our gratitude to the Presidency of Bahrain in the United Nations Security Council for convening this timely open debate and thank the briefers for their remarks.

We have been following the developments in the Middle East with grave concern. The recent military escalation in Armenia's immediate neighbourhood has led to human casualties and suffering, destruction of critical civilian infrastructure and damage to renowned world heritage sites. The dire consequences of this conflict extend way beyond the region, affecting global trade, disrupting supply chains, transport connectivity and resulting in sharp increases in prices for critical goods, in particular oil and gas.

The leadership of Armenia has been in close contact with governments of countries affected by the war. Our message has been clear: diplomacy and negotiations are the only way forward to address all the issues. We have consistently underlined the urgent need to reduce tensions and prevent further escalation. For Armenia, this is especially pressing given our direct border with Iran and potential humanitarian, economic, security consequences of the prolongation of the conflict.

Furthermore, we call on the parties to fully comply with international humanitarian law. Any attack targeting civilian population, residential areas, critical civilian infrastructure and cultural landmarks is unacceptable.

Armenia is vitally interested in peace and stability in our immediate neighbourhood. We have welcomed the crucial decision between Iran and the United States to cease hostilities and move towards de-escalation. We commend the mediation efforts, including those undertaken by Pakistan, aimed at reducing tension and preventing further escalation. It is crucial to give a real chance to diplomacy and negotiations to resolve all outstanding issues and preserve peace in the Middle East. We believe that upholding the ceasefire will create the necessary conditions for a political settlement and lasting peace in the region.

Mr. President,

We express our deep concern over the humanitarian situation in Lebanon, surging civilian casualties, extensive destruction of civilian infrastructure, and mass displacement of more than one million people. Armenia reiterates its firm support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the unity of Lebanon and commends the Lebanese Government's efforts aimed at restoration of stability in the country. In this context, we also emphasize the importance of ensuring the safety, security, and full rights of Christian communities and heritage in the region. We support the efforts of the Lebanese Government to implement the Nation Shield Plan for the State monopoly on weapons and ensure full control of the country's whole territory by the armed forces of Lebanon.

As a troop contributor to the UNIFIL, Armenia reaffirms its full support for the peacekeeping mission. We urge parties to take all measures to ensure the safety and security of peacekeeping personnel and premises, in accordance with international law. Those responsible for attacks against the UNIFIL personnel must be held accountable.

The Republic of Armenia stands ready to work with all international partners genuinely interested in achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace in the Middle East for the benefit of all countries and peoples of the region.

I thank you.