At the request of five European members of the UN Security Council, including Slovenia, the 15-member body held an urgent briefing today to receive an update on the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Slovenia demanded an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and the release of all hostages. As the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate and the military offensive intensifies, Slovenia expressed its profound condemnation of the ongoing civilian killings.

The situation is worsening by the day, with Gazans and hostages in captivity continuing to suffer. In that regard, Ambassador Samuel Žbogar stated that “the UN, including UNRWA, and its humanitarian partners must remain the backbone of the humanitarian response in Gaza.” Full protection and unhindered access must be granted to enable them to carry out their lifesaving work.

Furthermore, the absence of a ceasefire does not absolve any party of its obligation to respect international humanitarian law. Israel must abide by international law and this is non-negotiable.

The Ambassador also reaffirmed the established principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence as fundamental to all humanitarian action. These principles guide the work of humanitarian personnel and prevent aid from being weaponized. They must also be upheld in Gaza.

“What we need urgently is a ceasefire in Gaza,” concluded Ambassador Žbogar, calling for political will to end this war and to build peace.

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