Statement delivered by H.E. Amar Bendjama, Permanent Representative of Algeria to the United Nations, on behalf of the A3+, at the United Nations Security Council briefing on the Middle East (Syria)

Mr. President,

I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the members of the A3+, namely Guyana, Sierra Leone, Somalia, and my own country Algeria.

At the outset, we would like to thank USG LaCroix and ASG Khiari for their valuable briefings.

Mr. President,

The A3+ is concerned about the military escalations by Israel in Syria, which are taking place at a critical period in Syria’s history and exacerbate the already fragile situation in the country.

We understand that the recent airstrikes have reportedly resulted in nine civilian casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure.

The A3+ strongly condemns these military operations that violate international law, including the United Nations Charter, in particular Article 2(4), which prohibits the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State.

In this regard, we stress the importance of ensuring full respect for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

We also echo the Special Envoy’s concern that such actions undermine efforts to build a new Syria that is at peace with itself and at peace with the region .

It is crucial to highlight that Syria has not threatened nor attacked Israel.

Furthermore, we must recognize that the ongoing violence exacerbates the humanitarian crisis, which has already displaced millions and left countless others in desperate need of assistance.

It is vital to reiterate that both civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected in accordance with international humanitarian law.

The A3+ is further concerned about the impact that the destruction of Syria's military capabilities would have on the country's stability and its ability to ensure security and combat terrorism effectively.

The A3+ reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Syria.

These principles must be respected by all, under all circumstances. Upholding international law is not a matter of choice, but an obligation.

These escalatory actions by Israel compounded by inflammatory statements by Israeli officials about the "indefinite" presence of their forces in Syrian territory, are contributing to instability and threatening regional peace and security.

The A3+ therefore calls for:

1. The immediate cessation of attacks against Syria’s infrastructures. Such actions destabilize the country and may incite further unrest and conflict among neighbouring countries;

2. Full respect for the 1974 Disengagement Agreement, including provisions related to the zone of separation. In this regard, we underscore that there should be no military forces, military equipment, or personnel in the area of separation other than those of UNDOF;

3. An end to the Israeli incursion and the complete withdrawal of its forces from Syria’s territory. We emphasize that the Golan Heights is an occupied Syrian territory, as reaffirmed by Security Council Resolution 497 (1981). The Security Council must uphold its resolutions and ensure complete compliance by all parties.

Mr. President,

The A3+ stands ready to work with all member states to ensure a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis in Syria, prioritizing the needs and aspirations of the Syrian people.

The prosperity of Syria is critical to the stability of the entire region. Any actions by external actors that jeopardizes Syria’s security must be condemned by the international community.

Rebuilding Syria requires an investment in dialogue, not sanctions; enhanced collaboration, not aggression; and steadfast support, not desertion.

The international community must echo the calls of the Syrian people by mobilizing necessary resources, lifting unilateral sanctions, and providing required support.

I thank you!