The UN Security Council held a high-level debate on promoting political solutions in the Middle East, amid ongoing conflicts, humanitarian crises, and concerns about regional stability.
Greece emphasized that the persistence of conflicts in the Middle East demonstrates the urgent need for “credible political solutions through dialogue, mediation, and diplomacy,” warning that ongoing conflicts, humanitarian crises, and regional tensions continue to cause “enormous suffering to civilians” and have repercussions beyond the region, including on trade, energy security, and economic stability.
In her statement, Permanent Representative Ambassador Aglaia Balta reaffirmed her strong support for the efforts of the United Nations and regional partners to reduce tensions and promote negotiated solutions. Athens emphasized that effective mediation requires “sustained political commitment,” regional support, and coordinated international engagement.
Greece stated that its vision for the Middle East is based on “peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and regional cooperation,” free from terrorism and the threat of nuclear weapons. Referring to Iran, she noted that “trust cannot be built on ambiguity” and called for transparency and “sustained, verifiable cooperation” with the IAEA.
Regarding Israel and Palestine, Greece reiterated its support for the two-state solution, stating that Israel and “a sovereign, viable Palestinian state” must finally be able to live side by side “in peace, security, and mutual recognition.” It added that Gaza must never again serve as a “platform for terrorism,” including by Hamas, while the expansion of settlements and settler violence in the West Bank “are unacceptable and must stop immediately.”
Regarding Lebanon, Greece noted that the country must be completely rid of the destabilizing threat posed by Hezbollah and other non-state armed actors, while Israel must refrain from further military operations and incursions into Lebanese territory. Regarding Syria, she noted that stability can only emerge through “a truly inclusive political process,” in accordance with Resolution 2254, while preserving the country’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
In closing, Greece emphasized that “mediation and dialogue remain the only paths to achieving sustainable political solutions,” adding that efforts must be based on international law, the UN Charter, and relevant Security Council resolutions.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres noted that “it is time to explore a new security architecture for the Gulf, based on respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states, non-interference in their internal affairs, and enhanced multilateral cooperation”
The Permanent Representatives of the countries, for the most part, widely condemned the ongoing attacks throughout the region as violations of these countries’ sovereignty, while some put forward proposals for solutions.
“Dialogue among civilizations can never involve the destruction of a civilization,” said Colombian President Gustavo Petro, whose country holds the Council presidency for June.
Qatar’s Permanent Representative, Alia Ahmed Saif Al-Thani, stated that “any attempt to close the Strait of Hormuz or any legal characterization that would restrict freedom of navigation is contrary to international law.”
“It is time to curb Israel’s colonial appetite,” including in Lebanon and Syria, said Palestine’s Permanent Observer, Riyad Mansour.
Iran’s Permanent Representative Amir Iravani stated that the U.S. President “should refrain from his repeated threats against Iran, including the new threat of the use of force he made today.”