Iraq: UN Chief Commends Progress & Urges Action on Gaza, Lebanon & Sudan | 34th LAS Summit

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised Iraq’s progress since 2004 for, “strengthening institutions, resolving disputes through dialogue, providing humanitarian assistance and fostering sustainable development and human rights.” The Secretary-General spoke at the Summit of the League of Arab States today (17 May) in Baghdad, Iraq. “I am alarmed by reported plans by Israel to expand ground operations and more,” Guterres said during his address. “And I emphasize that the United Nations will not participate in any so-called aid operation that does not adhere to international law and the humanitarian principles of humanity, impartiality, independence and neutrality,” he added. He stressed the urgent need for support to UNRWA, saying, “I reiterate my appeal for the urgent and full support of UNRWA’s work, including financial support. We reject the repeated displacement of the Gaza population – and we obviously reject any question of forced displacement outside of Gaza.” Turning to Lebanon, Guterres called for full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701. “Sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon must be respected, and the Government of Lebanon must have control over all Lebanese territory,” he said. “I welcome the stated commitment by Lebanese officials to ensure a state monopoly over weapons.” On Sudan, the Secretary-General said a unified international effort was critical to stem worsening conditions. “Renewed and coordinated multilateral engagement is crucial to help stem appalling violence, famine, and mass displacement,” he stated, thanking the Arab League and African Union for their cooperation in a recent high-level meeting. Guterres concluded by commending Iraq’s progress in the two decades since the restoration of sovereignty. “I want to recognize and commend the progress Iraq has made... strengthening institutions, resolving disputes through dialogue, providing humanitarian assistance and fostering sustainable development and human rights,” he said. “I sincerely hope that all pending issues will find a just solution by dialog.”


For more information or to watch video on YouTube, click here!