Explanation of vote by the Republic of Slovenia at the meeting on the situation in the Middle East, UNIFIL

Thank you very much, Mr. President.

We would like to start by thanking the penholder, France, for their efforts and able steering of negotiations to come to a balanced text. We welcome the consensual adoption of this resolution.

Slovenia remains extremely alarmed about the hostilities along the Blue Line. Just this week we were reminded about the very real threat of a massive escalation. Slovenia is deeply alarmed about the intensity of exchanges and a possible miscalculation, which could drag the wider region into a full-blown war. The rhetoric related to this crisis is troubling.

Slovenia therefore underlines its call for the restoration of a cessation of hostilities and full implementation of UN Security Council resolution 1701 – in its entirety.

We are appalled by the loss of civilian lives, as well as the heavy impact on civilian infrastructure and civilians, many of whom have been displaced. We underscore the need to respect international law, including international humanitarian law and human rights law. All civilians must be protected, at all times by all parties.

Slovenia expresses full support to the mandate of UNIFIL. Its efforts are critical and its presence serves as a vital stabilizing factor. We thank all troop contributing countries for their contribution to the stability of the region. We join the call on all parties to ensure the safety, security and freedom of movement of UN personnel.  The inviolability of UN premises must be respected at all times. We welcome the work of UNIFIL, including through its operations as well as continuous communication with all actors. The parties must use the UNIFIL liaison and coordination mechanisms, good offices by international actors and fully engage to deescalate.

It is essential that diplomatic efforts continue being the primary avenue to address this crisis as well as the one in Gaza.

Thank you.

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