President,

I thank Assistant Secretary-General Khiari for his briefing.

Over the past week, the security situation in Suweida in southern Syria has sharply deteriorated, with escalating sectarian tensions and rapidly intensifying armed clashes, which have already claimed hundreds of lives. The immediate priority is to stabilize the security situation and restore social order as soon as possible. We have taken note of reports that the Syrian interim authorities have reached a ceasefire with relevant party and call on all sides to abide by the agreement, exercise calm and restraint, cease hostilities, and work toward de-escalation at the earliest opportunity. All parties to the conflicts have an obligation to comply with international humanitarian law. Attacks on and killings of civilians are unacceptable and intolerable under any circumstances.

The conflicts in Suweida once again demonstrate that the situation in Syria remains complex and fragile, with significant challenges still standing in the way of restoring peace and stability. The Syrian interim authorities should continue advancing a broadly inclusive political process in line with the principles set out in Security Council Resolution 2254, addressing the concerns of all parties through dialogue and fostering national unity and reconciliation. Counter-terrorism is a crucial aspect of restoring peace and stability in Syria. The Syrian interim authorities must fulfill their counter-terrorism obligations and take effective measures to combat all terrorist organizations listed by the Security Council, including the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM).

Amid the turmoil in southern Syria, Israel has recently carried out multiple airstrikes on Suweida, Daraa, and Damascus, even launching military attacks against key Syrian government institutions. Israel's actions constitute a grave violation of international law, infringe upon Syria's sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity, and introduce new complications to Syria's peace, stability, and political transition. China unequivocally condemns these acts. We call on Israel to immediately cease its military strikes on Syria and withdraw from Syrian territory without delay. The Golan is internationally recognized as occupied Syrian territory. Relevant Security Council resolutions must be implemented, the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement of Forces must be complied with, and the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) must be allowed to fulfill its mandate without obstruction.

In conclusion, I wish to emphasize that the Middle East today is beset by recurring hotspots, where old and new conflicts intertwine. From Gaza to the Red Sea, from Yemen to Iran, from Lebanon to Syria, From Gaza to the Red Sea, from Yemen to Iran, from Lebanon to Syria, conflicts and wars persist unabated, creating a complex and turbulent landscape of instability. This situation serves neither the interests of countries in the region nor the common interests of the international community. As the body bearing primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security, the Security Council must resolutely uphold its Charter-mandated duties and utilize all tools at its disposal, to end these conflicts at an early date, restore regional stability and achieve lasting peace in the Middle East. China stands ready to work with the international community to play a constructive role in this endeavor.

Thank you, President.