Item 1 - Urgent Debate on situation in Eastern Ghouta

Statement by Iceland, 2 March 2018

As delivered by Ambassador Harald Aspelund, Permanent Representative of Iceland

Thank you Mr. President

The tragic events in Syria have unfortunately, once again, called for an urgent reaction of this council. Last Monday our foreign minister expressed our deep concerns over the terrible suffering of civilians in the never-ending conflicts in Syria.

The Security Council on Saturday agreed on a ceasefire which is a step in the right direction. However, airstrikes, barrel bombs and artillery shelling were reported across eastern Ghouta this week. Has the Security Council resolution 2401 been fully implemented? No. Is there a ceasefire in Syria? No.

We condemn such a devoid of respect for international law.

It is imperative that we do our utmost to pressure those responsible to bring the killing to a complete stop and allow for humanitarian access to take place. The world cannot stand by, yet again, while massacres are being committed in broad day light, and innocent women, children and men are killed indiscriminately.

I thank you.