YouSaid · the spoken record

Abushahab

lines on the record: 829
first: 2021-11-09
most recent: 2023-12-30
sittings or episodes: 155
sources: un-security-council

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“They also undermine efforts to find a just and lasting solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict based on the two-State solution and in line with the relevant international resolutions. Therefore, we in the Security Council must adopt a unified position against all actions that could exacerbate tensions and instability in the region, and against attempts such as those we witnessed on Tuesday at the Al-Aqsa Mosque. In particular, we also remind the parties of their responsibilities to refrain from all measures that might contribute to fuelling hatred and exclusion.”
2023-01-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9236 (2023) · source
“We stress our firm position on the need to provide full protection for the Al-Aqsa Mosque and halt all violations taking place there, which provoke millions of believers around the world, given the sanctity of that holy site. We also emphasize the need to respect the custodial role of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan over the holy sites and endowments in accordance with international law and the current historic status quo and not to compromise the authority of the Administration Department of Awqaf and Al-Aqsa Mosque Affairs and its mandate to manage all the affairs of Haram al-Sharif, including its entry procedures. The events of the past year and the conflict’s long history reveal that the cost of unilateral measures is very high, as they are a major cause of the rising levels of violence and instability.”
2023-01-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9236 (2023) · source
“They also constitute a serious development that moves the region further away from the desired path of peace and contribute to perpetuating the negative trends associated with the conflict. Moreover, those actions threaten to escalate the tensions and confrontations that we are currently witnessing and fuel extremism and hatred in the region. In that context, we condemn the vandalization of the Christian cemetery on Mount Zion. Those responsible for trampling on the graves and desecrating that important historic and religious landmark must be held accountable. Such heinous acts are part of a trend of attacks on religious sacred sites that, if left undeterred, will encourage further violations.”
2023-01-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9236 (2023) · source
“Mr. Abushahab (United Arab Emirates) (spoke in Arabic): At the outset, I would like to thank the presidency of the Security Council for its prompt response to the request to hold this meeting to discuss the serious provocations that threaten the status quo at the Al-Aqsa Mosque. We also thank Mr. Khaled Khiari for his briefing on the latest developments. The United Arab Emirates strongly condemns the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque courtyard by an Israeli minister, under the protection of Israeli forces. Such provocative actions reflect a lack of commitment to the existing historical and legal status of the holy sites in Jerusalem, and they further destabilize the fragile situation in the occupied Palestinian territory.”
2023-01-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9236 (2023) · source
“In conclusion, we want to emphasize that the cross-border mechanism to Syria was established as an exceptional and temporary measure, which means that we should prioritize the political track, given its impact on the humanitarian track, including through our support to the Special Envoy’s efforts. Without a political solution to the crisis, the humanitarian situation in Syria cannot be addressed.”
2022-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9230 (2022) · source
“All the parties on the ground must therefore also enable the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid and commit to non-interference in humanitarian operations in order to ensure that they reach all in need. We also stress the importance of restoring calm and ensuring de-escalation across all regions, especially in northern Syria. The delivery of cross-line assistance requires security guarantees from all the parties on the ground and the removal of all obstacles that impede humanitarian operations in order to enable the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs to increase cross-line humanitarian operations, in terms of both frequency and scale.”
2022-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9230 (2022) · source
“The United Arab Emirates believes that the resolution on the cross-border mechanism to Syria should be treated as one that benefits all Syrians in all of Syria’s governorates, not only those living in north-western Syria. It includes sustainable solutions such as early-recovery projects essential for addressing the humanitarian situation in the long term, as needs continue to rise to dangerous levels. According to the report of the Secretary-General (see S/2022/933), more than 15 million of Syria’s population of 22 million people will be in need of humanitarian assistance next year. We are talking about real people and families of women and children, not mere numbers.”
2022-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9230 (2022) · source
“That resolution extended the cross-border mechanism to Syria and for the first time included a provision on the importance of ensuring electricity supplies for Syrians, given that it is a basic and essential humanitarian need. The resolution also allowed for the convening of informal interactive dialogues, which helped provide a clearer picture to the Member States about the difficulties surrounding its implementation. Given those important elements, which have strengthened the objectives of the resolution, the United Arab Emirates supports the extension of the cross-border mechanism to Syria for an additional six months. That is currently the best way to move forward.”
2022-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9230 (2022) · source
“This year, the Syrian crisis has witnessed worsening humanitarian conditions and a deepening of divisions with regard to that dossier, both inside and outside the Council. We must ensure that a spirit of unity and collaboration prevails among the members of the Council in the coming year if we are to lessen the suffering of the Syrian people. We also stress the importance of not politicizing the Syrian humanitarian dossier or tying it to progress on the political track. We all have a moral and human responsibility to ensure the delivery of assistance to all in need in Syria, without any political considerations. In July the Council adopted resolution 2642 (2022) during a period of conflicting positions and geopolitical complications.”
2022-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9230 (2022) · source
“Mr. Abushahab (United Arab Emirates) (spoke in Arabic): At the outset, I would like to thank both Mr. Geir Pedersen and Mr. Martin Griffiths for their briefings today. As we approach the end of several Member States’ terms on the Security Council, I want to take this opportunity to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to our colleagues from Norway and Ireland, the penholders for the Syrian humanitarian resolution, for their professionalism, balanced approach and tireless efforts to facilitate the resolution on the cross-border mechanism in Syria over the most recent period. We hope that the incoming penholders will take the same approach. As we near the expiration of the cross-border mechanism to Syria, I would like to focus today on the humanitarian situation in Syria.”
2022-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9230 (2022) · source
“At a time of regional and geopolitical uncertainty, we, the members of the Council and the international community, must do our utmost to bolster stability, dialogue and peaceful coexistence. The United Arab Emirates will continue to support all efforts to that end.”
2022-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9228 (2022) · source
“These latest developments reinforce the need to find a comprehensive and sustainable settlement that builds on the progress that has already been made. In that regard, we underline the importance of the trilateral statements, including those of 11 January 2021, 26 November 2021 and 31 October 2022. The United Arab Emirates reiterates its principled position that there can be no lasting military solution to conflicts. We continue to urge the parties to resolve their differences through peaceful and diplomatic means, in line with international law and the Charter of the United Nations. We encourage the two parties to engage constructively and in good faith with mediation efforts in order to achieve long- term peace in the region.”
2022-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9228 (2022) · source
“I thank Assistant Secretary-General Jenča for his briefing. Like other members of the Security Council, the United Arab Emirates is concerned about the recent increase in tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan. We continue to stress the importance of de-escalation and restraint. All sides should refrain from exacerbating the situation through escalatory action or rhetoric, not least in view of the potential humanitarian consequences. It is important to ease the situation of civilians and to refrain from making their lives more precarious. We echo the Secretary-General’s 14 December statement on ensuring freedom and security of movement along the Lachin corridor, in line with the trilateral statement of 9 November 2020 by Armenia, Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation.”
2022-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9228 (2022) · source
“In conclusion, the United Arab Emirates reaffirms its unwavering support for all genuine diplomatic efforts aimed at advancing nuclear non-proliferation regionally and globally. We also call on countries in our region and beyond to focus on enhancing areas of convergence and cooperation in order to achieve a safe, prosperous and positive outlook for present and future generations.”
2022-12-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9225 (2022) · source
“The United Arab Emirates is concerned about the findings in the Secretary-General’s report (S/2022/912), which highlights that cruise-missile parts seized by the United Kingdom in January and February had many similarities to those in cruise missiles used by the Houthis in their terrorist attacks on Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The acquisition of missile and drone technology by non-State actors, particularly terrorist groups, is a grave threat to regional and international peace and security. It also destabilizes the region and prolongs conflicts and the suffering of millions of people. The Council must therefore do more to counter that threat and prevent such weapons from falling into the hands of terrorists.”
2022-12-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9225 (2022) · source
“We underline the importance of resuming the full and timely implementation of all nuclear-related commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), including by reversing steps taken that are contrary to that agreement. We also call for continued dialogue between the Republic of Iran and the IAEA in order to restore the Agency’s ability to monitor Iran’s nuclear activities and therefore provide the required assurances to the international community on the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme.”
2022-12-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9225 (2022) · source
“I thank our briefers for their remarks and for their valuable efforts under their respective mandates. The United Arab Emirates recognizes nuclear non-proliferation as a cornerstone of our collective security. We have long supported international efforts, including by the Council and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to guarantee the peaceful nature of national nuclear programmes. We have also advocated for enabling developing countries to have access to and benefit from the peaceful use of nuclear technology. In 2020, the United Arab Emirates became the first Arab country to launch and operate a nuclear power plant, in accordance with the highest international standards of nuclear safety, security and non-proliferation.”
2022-12-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9225 (2022) · source
“In conclusion, we hope that the New Year will bring hope for the possibility of improving the conditions on the ground and achieving a quick return to negotiations that can eventually lead to the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian State along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, living side by side with Israel in peace, security and mutual recognition.”
2022-12-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9224 (2022) · source
“Fourthly, we note that any unilateral measures that affect the legal status of Jerusalem and the holy sites are a violation of international law and likely to exacerbate tensions. We are concerned about the threats of the forced displacement of dozens of families in East Jerusalem, where settlements continue to expand. We reaffirm the necessity of respecting the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan’s custodianship of the holy sites and management of the endowments in Jerusalem.”
2022-12-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9224 (2022) · source
“We stress the importance of Israel’s assumption of its responsibilities in accordance with international law and the relevant United Nations resolutions. Thirdly, we need to explore the possible options to revive the Middle East peace process. That requires multilateral support, especially from the Council and the stakeholders and States that have always undertaken mediation efforts to resolve this conflict. But it does not imply having to start from square one. The agreed- on international mechanisms and parameters are still in place. What we need is to intensify international engagement with the two sides to build confidence, urge them to prioritize wisdom and demonstrate the serious political will needed to return to negotiations, in addition to reaffirming their commitment to a two- State solution.”
2022-12-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9224 (2022) · source
“Considering the recent reports of plans for legalizing settlement outposts, we reaffirm our rejection of any steps aimed at annexing Palestinian lands or legitimizing annexation. Such practices raise many concerns about the future of a two-State solution, and we warn against the danger of undermining it to the extent that it will cease to be viable. Secondly, it is imperative to refrain from inciting rhetoric and instead to focus on taking steps to reduce the violence. That includes putting an end to the settler- related violence as well as the demolitions and evictions of Palestinian buildings, of which there have been more than 700 this year, according to United Nations reports. Such illegal measures fuel anger and despair, exacerbate the already severe humanitarian conditions and lead to more confrontations.”
2022-12-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9224 (2022) · source
“The United Arab Emirates will therefore never cease to call for de-escalation in the region and to reach out for peace and explore ways to create promising opportunities for young people away from the violence. We believe it is imperative to focus on the following messages throughout the coming period. First, in the context of our discussion on resolution 2334 (2016) today, we reiterate our demand that Israel must stop all of its continuing settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territory, which constitute a violation of international law and undermine peace efforts. That includes halting the announced plans to build new settlement units in various places.”
2022-12-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9224 (2022) · source
“As for Gaza, we witnessed another spiral of violence in August that claimed the lives of 17 children. On the political front, there has been no serious action that might indicate an imminent return to talks between the two parties since negotiations ceased in 2014. Given those realities, the Council must rely on intensifying political and diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and help the parties return to negotiations. Today’s meeting represents an opportunity for the Council to send a united message about the importance of achieving that. It is not only the future of two peoples that is at stake in the ongoing conflict, it is an entire region that could find itself in a dangerous spiral of violence.”
2022-12-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9224 (2022) · source
“Mr. Abushahab (United Arab Emirates) (spoke in Arabic): I thank the Special Coordinator, Mr. Tor Wennesland, for his thorough briefing and his efforts in supporting peace in the region. Here in the Security Council at this time last year, Mr. Wennesland expressed his concern about developments in the occupied Palestinian territory, noting that if they were left unchecked, it was not only likely that the situation in the West Bank could deteriorate but that those developments could affect the security situation in the Gaza Strip. In that regard, we are now at the end of the deadliest year in the West Bank in nearly two decades, according to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, which has also noted that the number of children killed in the West Bank this year was twice that of last year.”
2022-12-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9224 (2022) · source
“In conclusion, the United Arab Emirates looks forward to seeing the road map of the Special Representative, which we hope will present essential Libyan-led and -owned tracks for achieving progress in a manner that establishes stability and meets the aspirations of the Libyan people for security and prosperity.”
2022-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9223 (2022) · source
“Therefore, we support the efforts of the United Nations to work and cooperate with Libyan institutions, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, which was initiated recently by the United Nations for achieving sustainable development, and to ensure that the Libyan people, including women, youth and children, can build resilience in the face of current challenges. We also support the Organization’s current efforts to provide necessary vaccines to all parts of Libya, especially vaccines that protect children, as there is a shortage of vaccines at the local level.”
2022-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9223 (2022) · source
“We further support calls by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya for disarmament and security sector reform, as well as the joint statement by the United Nations Children’s Fund and the United Nations Mine Action Service on the danger of unexploded ordnance to civilians, especially children. Although Libya is a country rich in natural resources, there are many challenges that severely affect the everyday lives of Libyan citizens, including a lack of access to education and health care and delays in the payment of salaries.”
2022-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9223 (2022) · source
“We continue to demand the gradual, balanced and parallel withdrawal of foreign forces, foreign fighters and mercenaries. We thank the military leaders and members of the 5+5 Joint Military Commission for their impartiality and for prioritizing national interests to safeguard the ceasefire agreement, which should be made permanent. We urge them to take concrete steps to unify security institutions to serve the Libyan people. That would also prevent the illegal proliferation of weapons and ensure that clashes affecting the safety and security of the Libyan people are not repeated. It would also address the threats posed by unexploded ordnance to the population.”
2022-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9223 (2022) · source
“Therefore, we call on all actors to coordinate their efforts with the Special Representative to ensure that they complement his good offices. We also stress the importance of ensuring the full, equal and meaningful participation of Libyan women in the political process. We note the importance of Libyan national reconciliation in order to turn the page on the past and strengthen national cohesion in a way that serves peace and security in the long term. In that regard, we commend the United Nations and regional organizations for prioritizing support for de-escalation efforts and a comprehensive and inclusive reconciliation process. In conjunction with political efforts, it is imperative to continue building on the gains made in the security sector, especially in defeating terrorism and maintaining the ceasefire.”
2022-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9223 (2022) · source
“While the elections have not taken place yet, we hope that the Libyan parties are able to unite and overcome their remaining differences. However, that aspiration for unity must also be matched by the unity of Council members and partners through support for the Special Representative’s efforts. We believe that the effective engagement of the Libyans and the international community with Mr. Bathily is encouraging and should be intensified. Such engagement adds momentum to the political track and advances the electoral process. In that regard, we must commend the good offices of Libya’s neighbouring States that are invested in aligning different points of view in order to enable Libya to hold parliamentary and presidential elections, thus ending the transitional period.”
2022-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9223 (2022) · source
“Mr. Abushahab (United Arab Emirates) (spoke in Arabic): I thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Abdoulaye Bathily, for his valuable briefing, and I also thank Your Excellency Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, for your briefing. I would like to seize this opportunity to commend you on the important role that you and your predecessor, Ambassador T. S. Tirumurti, have played in chairing the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011), concerning Libya. We wish the incoming Chair every success. I would also like to welcome His Excellency Ambassador Taher Elsonni to today’s meeting. Nearly a week from today will mark one year since the elections were postponed in Libya.”
2022-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9223 (2022) · source
“We support calls, such as that made by the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs today, for effective arms control measures. War is not only inhumane and causes untold suffering, but it is also fraught with unintended consequences. The Council has a responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security and an obligation to Ukrainians and people around the world. For its part, the United Arab Emirates continues to actively support and facilitate mediation and de-escalatory confidence-building measures, and we stand ready to support all efforts towards a peaceful resolution.”
2022-12-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9216 (2022) · source
“With that in mind, as the war continues, we must mitigate the attendant risks. In all military conflicts, it is vital to safeguard weapons during transfer, storage and deployment so that they may not inadvertently fall into the wrong hands, particularly those of terrorist groups. On that note, the United Arab Emirates welcomes announcements of efforts to mitigate risks associated with arms transfers, which includes plans tailored to the transfer of high-tech weapons systems and regional programmes to enhance anti-trafficking capabilities in the region. We also welcome other recent initiatives aimed at strengthening illicit arms trade prevention related to the conflict in Ukraine. The volume and type of arms involved in this case necessitate greater vigilance and transparency.”
2022-12-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9216 (2022) · source
“I thank High Representative Nakamitsu for her briefing. We also listened carefully to Mr. Kovalik’s remarks. When the Council last considered the issue of arms transfers in the context of the conflict in Ukraine three months ago (see S/PV.9127), we expressed our concern that the risk of those arms transfers would be compounded if both sides were intent on achieving a military victory and the conflict were to become a protracted one. Unfortunately, the prospects of reaching a negotiated settlement have not grown appreciably closer in the intervening months. Still, there have been signals of a widening recognition that talks are the inevitable path to a durable peace. The United Arab Emirates is steadfast in its belief that there is simply no military solution to the war. A sustainable end will have to come through negotiations.”
2022-12-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9216 (2022) · source
“The United Arab Emirates will continue to support the ability of humanitarian organizations to do their life-saving work throughout our term on the Security Council and beyond.”
2022-12-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9214 (2022) · source
“While we recognize this resolution as a milestone in the Security Council’s support for people in need of humanitarian assistance, we nevertheless see some potential for overcompliance. We therefore believe that it is important to regularly review how the resolution is being implemented on the ground and adjust it as needed. The goal is to ensure that all parts and partners of the humanitarian system are not impeded by sanctions measures and that this resolution’s safeguards remain fit for purpose. Going forward, our collective responsibility will be to shepherd the full implementation of resolution 2664 (2022), including by providing guidance to Member States, the private sector and other actors.”
2022-12-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9214 (2022) · source
“Supporting humanitarian causes is part of the national ethos of the United Arab Emirates. Our humanitarian aid comes from the Government, as well as our country’s many charitable organizations. The United Arab Emirates works closely with the United Nations humanitarian agencies, the Emirates Red Crescent, our own national non-profit groups and local organizations doing valuable humanitarian work. While we are pleased that the resolution covers many different forms of aid delivery, including the critical work done by the United Nations and national Red Cross and Red Crescent societies, we recognize that, across the globe, food, medical and other aid is delivered by different actors and by different means. Although most aid providers are covered by this resolution, some genuine humanitarian organizations may be left out.”
2022-12-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9214 (2022) · source
“The United Arab Emirates joined the Security Council with a commitment to support humanitarian efforts. During the past 11 months, we have worked in support of humanitarian exemptions to several sanctions regimes. The United Arab Emirates is therefore pleased that today’s landmark humanitarian resolution 2664 (2022) was adopted. We thank Ireland and the United States of America, as well as all our colleagues on the Council, for the work undertaken and the outcome achieved. As humanitarian needs rise around the world, we must do all that we can to enable aid to reach people in need, while ensuring that the appropriate safeguards are in place to prevent any possible misuse of humanitarian assistance. Today’s resolution is an important step towards ensuring that legitimate humanitarian aid is not inhibited by sanctions measures.”
2022-12-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9214 (2022) · source
“At the same time, we continue to underline the need to ensure that the delivery of grain facilitated by the July Istanbul agreements reaches those most in need. In that respect, we further welcome the recent arrival of Ukrainian wheat bound for Ethiopia. We must all engage in collective efforts to ensure that children do not go hungry, whether in Ukraine or in other parts of the world. Once again, we reiterate the need for de-escalation and a diplomatic solution to this crisis. For its part, the Council needs to encourage dialogue and foster an environment that is conducive to a cessation of hostilities in order to ultimately bring an end to the fighting. The United Arab Emirates continues to stand ready to deploy its good offices and contribute to efforts aimed at achieving those goals.”
2022-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9208 (2022) · source
“We were heartened to see the latest Global Food Price Index of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, which showed a modest decrease in global food prices, due in part to the extension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative. Yet we are still seeing record-high levels of food prices, which impact the poorest countries first. Areas where fertilizer is not available face low harvests that could undermine even the limited progress made in lowering food prices. In that regard, we welcome the donation of 260,000 metric tons of Russian fertilizer and the news of the first shipment that is destined for Malawi. We look forward to further shipments in the coming months, as well as other efforts to enhance fertilizer supply.”
2022-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9208 (2022) · source
“But the war’s impact on the children of Ukraine goes beyond the immediate threat to their physical safety. The psychosocial impacts of the conflict could engender long-term challenges that affect an entire generation of children. When families are separated and forced to move or take shelter underground, their daily activities are severely disrupted and the mental health of children suffers. We applaud those working on the ground, particularly community organizations that have mobilized to provide psychosocial support to children impacted by the war. We can and must do more to protect the children of Ukraine. At the same time, it is critical to ensure that children elsewhere in the world do not suffer from the impact of the global food crisis exacerbated by this war.”
2022-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9208 (2022) · source
“Beyond the importance of education itself and avoiding a lost generation of students who are denied opportunity, schooling provides an important source of stability and peer-bonding that children desperately need as they cope with the intense trauma of war. Since September, it is estimated that approximately 2.6 million children in Ukraine are learning online due to the impacts of war on education, yet even that remote access to education has been disrupted by blackouts and emergency power cuts resulting from the conflict’s impact on energy infrastructure. We reiterate our call for taking all the necessary measures to prevent the targeting of civilian infrastructure and ensure that all children can safely access education. Children must be protected from the worst impacts of armed conflict.”
2022-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9208 (2022) · source
“We commend the work not only of the United Nations and other major aid organizations but also of local first responders and community organizations, who have deployed innovative measures to address ever-growing needs, whether by allocating generators, setting up mobile heating and charging stations or urgently repairing electricity grids and damaged water systems. Winter also brings new and unforeseen dangers. Landmines and unexploded munitions are now concealed by snow and ice. We are deeply concerned by reports that the lack of heating has driven people, including children, to gather firewood in forests littered with hidden explosives. The previous time the Council met to discuss the situation of children in Ukraine was at the start of the school year in September (see S/PV.9126).”
2022-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9208 (2022) · source
“I would like to thank Under-Secretary-General Griffiths for his sobering briefing on the situation in Ukraine. Over the course of the past few weeks, the humanitarian community has focused its attention on addressing the impact of winter in Ukraine. As the cold weather sets in, we have seen humanitarian actors rise to the occasion in support of those most in need. As we heard again today, the situation remains critical — especially in areas that have experienced or continue to experience heavy fighting and shelling. In places like Mykolayiv and Kherson, the lack of electricity, running water and heating, in addition to the scarcity of food and medicine, has put considerable pressure on humanitarian response efforts.”
2022-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9208 (2022) · source
“In the coming period, we will continue to follow UNITAD’s efforts, including its investigations into Da’esh crimes against children and crimes of sexual violence. We also support the Team’s focus on expanding investigations into Da’esh’s financial resources and its exploitation of Iraqi oil to finance its crimes. We will be unable to totally eradicate terrorism if we do not dry up its funds.”
2022-12-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9206 (2022) · source
“We also welcome UNITAD’s efforts to reconstruct crime scenes and uncover the circumstances related to mass graves using advanced technology. My country supports UNITAD’s investigations into the destruction by Da’esh of cultural and religious heritage sites in Iraq, in cooperation with UNESCO, while stressing the importance of holding the perpetrators accountable. It is also important to continue to rebuild the sites and monuments that were damaged or destroyed, which will require concerted international efforts in order to revive that human and cultural heritage and give it back to the Iraqis and humankind as a whole. In conclusion, we urge the international community to support the efforts of Iraq and UNITAD in promoting accountability for Da’esh crimes.”
2022-12-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9206 (2022) · source
“We hope to see more progress in the upcoming period, given that the survivors of Da’esh crimes in Iraq and the relatives of the victims still await justice. In order for the Team to be successful in implementing its mandate, there is a need to maintain communications between the members of the team and Iraqi officials at all levels and to cooperate with the Iraqi judicial authorities through information-sharing, training and capacity-building. Many families in Iraq still await the completion of the examination of the remains recovered from mass graves in Sinjar, Tall Afar and elsewhere, as well as the identification of the victims’ identities so that they can be buried with dignity. We appreciate the progress made in returning the remains of Yazidi victims as families prepare for that in the coming months.”
2022-12-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9206 (2022) · source
“We recall that, as a sovereign State, Iraq has the primary responsibility to investigate the crimes committed by Da’esh on its territory and to hold the perpetrators accountable in accordance with resolution 2379 (2017), which recognizes that the relevant authorities in Iraq are the primary intended recipient of the evidence collected by UNITAD. We call upon the Team to share the evidence with the relevant Iraqi authorities, in compliance with resolution 2651 (2022). In the context of sharing information obtained by UNITAD with third countries to support the prosecution of Da’esh criminals, we urge advanced coordination with Iraq. We also urge the Team to keep the Council abreast of developments and of the efforts made to overcome the challenges in that regard.”
2022-12-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9206 (2022) · source
“UNITAD efforts in that regard have culminated in the completion of five cases. We welcome the progress made in the investigations related to the crimes perpetrated by Da’esh against the Christian community, as well as the progress made in the investigations related to the development and use of chemical and biological weapons by Da’esh. We hope that UNITAD’s efforts will contribute to strengthening the capabilities of the relevant Iraqi authorities in holding Da’esh accountable for its terrorist crimes.”
2022-12-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9206 (2022) · source
“Mr. Abushahab (United Arab Emirates) (spoke in Arabic): I take the opportunity to congratulate Ghana on its outstanding and effective presidency of the Security Council last month and to wish you, Madam President, every success this month. I also thank Mr. Christian Ritscher, Special Adviser and Head of the United Nations Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Da’esh/Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (UNITAD), for his valuable briefing on its work. I welcome the presence of Ambassador Bahr Aluloom of Iraq at this meeting. I would like to begin by paying tribute to the efforts of UNITAD in conducting investigations and collecting evidence about the crimes committed by Da’esh against the Iraqi people, including those constituting crimes against humanity and genocide.”
2022-12-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9206 (2022) · source