Security Council Press Statement on Attack against United Nations in Somalia

 

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Raimonda Murmokaitė (Lithuania):

The members of the Security Council are outraged by today’s terrorist attack which targeted a United Nations convoy in Mogadishu, for which Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility and which has caused numerous deaths and injuries.  The members of the Security Council extended their condolences to the victims and their families, as well as to the people and the Government of the Republic of Somalia.

The members of the Security Council underscored their determination to stand by the people of Somalia as they seek peace and stability.  The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that this and other acts of terrorism would not weaken that determination.  The members of the Security Council are appalled that this attack targeted United Nations personnel seeking to assist Somalis realize their hopes for a brighter future.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, and that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable regardless of their motivation, wherever and whenever and by whomsoever committed.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their determination to combat all forms of terrorism, in accordance with its responsibilities under the Charter of the United Nations.

The members of the Security Council underlined the need to bring perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism to justice, and urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with the Somali authorities in this regard.

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 full support to all United Nations personnel working to bring peace, stability and prosperity to the people of Somalia.

* *** *

For information media • not an official record