Thank you, Mr Chair. If we are cut off, Italy will deposit the full text.
The report presented today by Special Rapporteur Albanese is entirely devoid of credibility and impartiality. As Italy, we are not surprised.
The content of the report blatantly exceeds the specific mandate of the Special Rapporteur, which does not include investigations into alleged violations committed by other States or entities, nor judgements on cooperation between third countries and the ICC.
Even more concerning is the complete disregard – in particular during the last months – for the code of conduct for Special Rapporteurs, which includes common sense principles such as integrity, impartiality and good faith. These are not optional; they are the foundation of any credible report, of the implementation of the mandate and of the United Nations itself.
The code of conduct calls on Rapporteurs to “ensure that their personal political opinions are without prejudice to the execution of their mission” and to “show restraint, moderation and discretion so as not to undermine the recognition of the independent nature of their mandate”.
There is ample evidence on-line and in her interviews that, as Special Rapporteur, Ms. Albanese cannot be considered impartial. At a recent public event in Italy she even seemed to be questioning a statement by the local mayor calling for the release of Israeli hostages.
Faced with a document lacking credibility, in particular on impartiality, we have chosen not to comment on the report. We will not do so today either.
Instead, we pose a direct question to the Rapporteur: do you truly believe that this report and today’s debate contribute to achieving a sustainable and lasting peace in the region or to build constructive dialogue among the parties?
Do you believe that this report and today’s debate help support the current efforts for peace and reconstruction in Gaza or alleviate the suffering of civilians?
It would be a tragic paradox if the UN were perceived as undermining peace rather than promoting it.
Italy, regardless of this report, will continue to work for peace in the region as it always has, and especially after October 7th. We will continue to work to alleviate the suffering of civilians, to deliver food via our Food for Gaza initiative, to evacuate the wounded, to resettle university students and to support diplomatically efforts aimed at achieving sustainable and lasting peace.
