Madam President,

I thank Secretary-General António Guterres for his briefing. I look forward to hearing the statements by the permanent representatives of Iran, Israel, and Syria respectively on the evolving situation.

Since the breakout of Gaza conflict, the international community has deplored the unacceptable humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and made strong demands for an immediate ceasefire to end the hostilities. It has also expressed grave concerns about how a prolonged conflict would exacerbate the tensions in the region with serious compounding spillover effects.

On April 1, Iran's diplomatic premises in Syria were attacked by airstrikes, resulting in loss of several Iranian personnel and severe destruction to the premises. This is a grave violation of the UN Charter and international law and a breach of the sovereignty of both Syria and Iran. The attack is of an extremely vicious nature.

A moment ago, Secretary-General António Guterres briefed us on the escalation that happened on April 13, over which China expresses deep concern. We have also noted that Iran stated that its military action was in response to Israel’s aggression against its diplomatic premises and the matter can be deemed concluded.

China calls on relevant parties to exercise maximum calm and restraint and resolve their differences and disputes in accordance with the purposes of the UN Charter and international law to prevent further escalations.

Madam President,

The ongoing situation is the latest spillover of the Gaza conflict. It serves as another reminder that the Palestinian question remains central to the Middle East issue and bears on the peace, stability and long-term security in the region. If the flames of the Gaza conflict are allowed to continue raging, then the adverse spillover is set to spread still further, making the region even more unstable. Countries and peoples in the Middle East have no desire for, nor can they afford a larger conflict or war. Therefore, There should be no more delays in implementing UN Security Council Resolution 2728 and the conflict must end now. Ultimately, there is no alternative to the full implementation of the two-State solution, the only way to end the vicious circle of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict once and for all.  China calls on the international community, especially countries with influence, to play a constructive role for the peace and stability of the region. 

Thank you, Madam President.