Thank you, Mr. President.
We welcome the convening of this meeting in response to the extremely worrying developments in Lebanon and beyond. I would like to thank Under Secretary-General DiCarlo and High Commissioner Türk for their statements detailing very precisely the events of the last few days. I welcome the presence of the Minister and, of course, all our colleagues.
Mr. President,
Switzerland expresses its deep concern at the explosions of pagers and other communications equipment that occurred on Tuesday and Wednesday. We condemn the fact that these explosions have caused numerous casualties among civilians, including children. The circumstances and responsibilities must be clarified.
I would like to extend our sincere condolences to all the families of the civilian victims who have been injured and killed in recent days.
We are concerned about the wider consequences of these explosions for the civilian population. They have caused widespread panic and fear, and overwhelmed hospitals. In this respect, I would like to pay tribute to the Lebanese hospital staff and rescue workers for their commitment.
These explosions and the intensification of hostilities on both sides of the Blue Line, including the strike in the southern suburbs of Beirut today, risk further undermining the stability of Lebanon and the entire region. Here, too, we deplore the wounded and killed civilians. Switzerland calls on all parties, and those with influence over them, to exercise the utmost restraint in order to avoid a major regional escalation. We insist on a return to a total cessation of hostilities, and demand the full implementation of Resolution 1701. This Council unanimously reaffirmed these demands just three weeks ago.
Switzerland calls on all parties to respect international humanitarian law, and in particular the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution, in all circumstances. “War has rules” as the High Commissioner just said. The protection of civilians is a legal obligation that must be respected. We also recall that human rights apply at all times.
The only desire of the tens of thousands of displaced people on both sides of the Blue Line is to return to their homes and live there in peace. Their children, for their part, want nothing more than to be able to go to their schools and play with their friends.
One thing is absolutely clear: dialogue and de-escalation are the only ways to achieve this. Military escalation is not the solution. It would drag the region into the abyss of a regional war. This is why Switzerland supports all current mediation efforts. Voices of peace and reason must prevail, in the interests of the people of the entire region.
Finally - and we will not cease to insist on this - a ceasefire in Gaza, as well as the release of hostages and rapid, unimpeded humanitarian access, are urgently needed to reduce civilian suffering and avoid further regional escalation. Negotiations must continue urgently, and the parties must participate in good faith.
This Council must assume its responsibilities and contribute, united, to a peaceful solution. Switzerland is ready to make its contribution.
I thank you.