Chair,
Excellencies,
Colleagues,
Italy aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union and would like to add the following remarks in its national capacity.
Ten years ago, the Security Council adopted resolution 2286. It affirmed a clear principle: medical personnel, facilities, and humanitarian operations must be protected in armed conflict. Yet today, this principle is still too often violated.
At the same time, new challenges are emerging. Cyberattacks can disrupt hospital systems. Artificial intelligence may support medical decisions, but it cannot replace human judgement. Therefore, in this context, technology must be used responsibly to reinforce compliance with humanitarian law, ensuring that human life remains at the core of all efforts.
Looking ahead, Italy calls for three key priorities.
First, strengthening accountability. We strongly condemn all violations against healthcare personnel and facilities, which must be investigated and prosecuted.
Second, integrating healthcare protection into peacekeeping with Protection of Civilians efforts: safeguarding medical personnel should be central to UN missions.
Third, enhancing mediation and humanitarian diplomacy to promote compliance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL), through sustained dialogue with parties to conflict
In conclusion, Italy reaffirms its commitment to working with the UN and all Member States to turn the promises of resolution 2286 into real action.
Thank you.
