Excellencies, Colleagues,
This meeting comes at a time of particularly alarming developments in the Middle East.
We express deep concern and call for restraint and responsibility on all regional actors.
Avoiding any further spiral of escalations has to be our common top priority, as well as preventing another dramatic humanitarian outburst.
It is our collective responsibility to call for calm and restraint, aware of the fact that every minute that goes by, the lives of innocent men, women and children of the entire region hang in the balance.
As a matter of fact, even before the latest dramatic events, UNIFIL was facing growing operational difficulties and was more and more often caught in the crossfires.
While the situation along the Blue Line remains extremely concerning, Italy recognizes the important role played by UNIFIL in contributing to stability and reducing the risk of escalation in the area. Despite its constraints, UNIFIL has been providing over the years a valuable framework for de-escalation and dialogue between the parties, helping to maintain a degree of calm across the Blue Line and in the broader region.
Indeed, UNIFIL has demonstrated throughout the years its capacity for dialogue with stakeholders on the ground.
Excellencies, Colleagues,
With more than 1,000 troops deployed, Italy’s commitment proves steadfast.
In these difficult times, cohesion among TCCs is more needed than ever.
We deem essential to ensure that the Mission can operate in the most effective way.
At the same time, the security of UNIFIL troops and all UN personnel must be a top priority.
All Parties must respect resolution 1701 and operate in a way that can avert any harm or damage to UNIFIL’s staff and assets.
As regards the Mission’s organization, contingency plans must be constantly updated and adapted to the everchanging situation on the ground.
We thank the Secretariat for its constant and timely exchange of information with the TCCs.
And we stand ready to continue working with all of you in these very challenging times.
Thank you.
