Security Council Press Statement on Terrorist Attack in Mali

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Gérard Araud ( France):

The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the attack by unidentified armed assailants on the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) in Kidal, Mali, on 14 December, in which Senegalese peacekeepers were killed, other peacekeepers were severely injured, as well of members of Malian armed forces.

The members of the Security Council expressed their condolences to the families of the peacekeepers killed in the attacks, as well as to the Governments of Mali and Senegal, and to MINUSMA.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their full support to MINUSMA and French forces who support it.  The members of the Security Council stressed that those responsible for this attack shall be held accountable, and called on the Government of Mali to swiftly investigate the attack and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed the need to combat by all means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts, and that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed.

The members of the Security Council reminded States that they must ensure that measures taken to combat terrorism comply with all their obligations under international law, in particular international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their support to the Malian authorities and MINUSMA to stabilize Mali, re-establish State administration throughout the country and launch an effective and inclusive national dialogue.

* *** *

For information media • not an official record