In June, Slovenia introduced a resolution on behalf of the ten elected members of the Security Council addressing the alarming humanitarian situation in Gaza. Throughout the month, Council members also discussed other pressing developments in the Middle East, including escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. In addition, Slovenia, in partnership with other members, requested a briefing on Ukraine.

In view of the deteriorating situation in Gaza, the Council voted at the beginning of the month on a draft resolution demanding humanitarian access across the entire Strip, the release of all hostages and a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Introduced by Slovenia on behalf of the ten elected members, the draft resolution was a response to the dire humanitarian situation and widespread malnutrition on the ground. The resolution received strong support from 14 Council members. However, the US’s negative vote prevented the 15-member body from taking action in a war that has killed more than 56,000 Palestinians.

“Starvation, the withholding of aid and endless displacements are inhumane and contrary to international law. They cannot be justified by any war objective,” Ambassador Samuel Žbogar emphasized after the vote.

In response to Israel’s attacks on Iran and Iran’s subsequent retaliatory strikes, the Security Council held three emergency sessions to address the latest developments in the region. Slovenia called for de-escalation and maximum restraint by all parties, as well as for the resumption of US–Iran nuclear talks. Deputy Permanent Representative (PR) Ondina Blokar Drobič also stressed the need for finding a diplomatic solution. “We condemn any military escalation in the region and join the Secretary-General’s appeal to avoid any further internationalization of the conflict,” she stated, adding that it is high time to prioritize the protection of civilians.

Later, the US carried out strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, following which a ceasefire between Israel and Iran was announced. Slovenia welcomedthe agreement and urged both parties to respect it fully.

Speaking at the regular non-proliferation briefing, Ambassador Žbogar presented a report in his capacity as UNSC facilitator for the implementation of resolution 2231. In his national capacity, he underlined that the JCPOA is one of the most significant multilateral achievements of the past decade. As it is due to expire in October 2025, he stressed that the JCPOA’s objectives remain relevant and that diplomacy is needed now.

Together with Denmark, France, Greece and the UK, Slovenia called for a Security Council briefing on Ukraine after the horrific strikes on Ukrainian cities and residential buildings continued. The Deputy PR condemned all attacks and called on Russia to respect international humanitarian law. Rather than launching drones and missiles resulting in civilian casualties, Russia should engage in peace talks in good faith, with a view of achieving a full ceasefire. The time for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine is now.

“The immense scale of human suffering in Sudan is man-made and the result of deliberate choices,” underscored Ambassador Žbogar during the Council meeting. He reiterated Slovenia’s call for peace and strongly condemned all attacks on humanitarian and medical workers. Finally, addressing the issue of impunity, he warned: “Those who commit atrocities in Sudan do so in the belief that they will not be held to account – this presumption must be challenged.”  Without justice, there can be no lasting peace.

During a regular briefing on the situation in Syria, Slovenia reiterated that the interim authorities should prioritize a comprehensive economic reform, complemented by an inclusive and peaceful political transition.

Addressing the situation in Afghanistan, Slovenia called on the Taliban to reverse their unacceptable discriminatory practices against women. The Deputy PR reiterated strong support for a democratic and inclusive Afghanistan that is at peace with itself, its neighbors and the international community. 

Following the release of the latest report by the Secretary-General on Children and Armed Conflict, the Council held its annual open debate on the issue. Ambassador Žbogar called on all UN Member States to do more to protect children. To this end, he put forward key proposals focused on prevention, accountability, respect for international humanitarian and human rights law, and greater determination in restoring peace and security in armed conflicts.

At the open debate on poverty, underdevelopment and conflict – the signature event of Guyana’s Presidency – Slovenia proposed investing in resilience, prioritizing people and upholding human dignity, as well as integrating humanitarian, development and peacebuilding efforts. Prevention remains the best cure for instability and conflict.

Slovenia congratulated Bahrain, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Latvia and Liberia on their election to the Security Council, where they will assume membership in January 2026. Slovenia looks forward to hosting all current and newly elected members in Ljubljana in September 2025.

In June, the UN Security Council adopted a press statement on the detention of UN and INGO workers by the Houthis in Yemen, once againdemanding their immediate and unconditional release. Slovenia expressed solidarity with humanitarian workers everywhere and at all times. Press statements on Sudan and the terrorist attack in Syria were also adopted.

The Security Council renewed the mandate of the UNDOF mission in the Golan Heights for six months and extended the DRC sanctions regime, along with the mandate of the Group of Experts, for another year.

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