Security Council

7271^st Meeting (PM)

Security Council, in Statement, Expresses Deep Outrage at ‘ISIL’,

 

Urging Expanded Support for New Iraqi Government to Defeat It

Endorsement for Effort Emerges in Debate,

Tempered by Warnings Fight Must Be Charter-based

The Security Council this afternoon welcomed the formation of a new Iraqi Government and supported the “collaboration of all States” to help it fight the armed group calling itself the “Islamic State”, or ISIL, at a meeting addressed by many State Ministers and chaired by United States Secretary of State John Kerry.

In a statement presented by Mr. Kerry, whose country holds the 15-member body’s presidency for September, the Council strongly condemned attacks by terrorist organizations in Iraq, Syria and Lebanon, and expressed deep outrage that Iraqis, as well as nationals of other States, had been killed, kidnapped, raped, tortured or recruited as child fighters by ISIL.

Insisting that those responsible must be held to account, the statement recognized efforts by the Iraqi Government to combat the terrorist threat and all steps taken to address urgent humanitarian needs.  It called for an intensification of those efforts and total funding for humanitarian appeals.

At the same time, the Council urged the international community, in accordance with international law, to strengthen and expand support for the Government of Iraq in its fight against ISIL and associated armed groups, welcoming international meetings for that purpose.  It reiterated the urgent need to stop any direct or indirect trade in oil from Iraq involving ISIL.

Also by the text, the Council urged Member States to work closely with Iraq to identify how best to support democracy and security, as well as national reconciliation to address the needs of all of Iraq’s diverse communities.

Additionally, the statement expressed support for Iraq’s full integration into the region and the international community, and recognized the importance for it to achieve the international standing it held prior to the adoption of resolution 661 (1990).

The Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Iraq, Nickolay Mladenov, briefing the Council before the read-out of the statement, welcomed the formation of the new Government, while reporting that the fight against ISIL continued to present severe challenges.  Despite some recent successes by Iraqi Security Forces and Kurdish Peshmerga operations, ISIL had been able to take other key areas, exacerbating the humanitarian catastrophe, he reported.

In addition to the suffering from human rights abuses, up to 1.8 million Iraqis had been displaced since January, he went on.  Some 850,000 had sought refuge in the Kurdistan region, with an additional 10,000 families from Diyala Province recently displaced from their homes.  The humanitarian crisis had placed pressure on local communities across the country.

In countering ISIL and other security efforts in Iraq, it was important for stakeholders to adhere to the Iraqi Constitution and international law, he said, welcoming the recent orders by the Prime Minister to suspend Iraqi Air Force strikes in civilian areas, including ISIL-controlled areas.

The new Iraqi Foreign Minister, Ibrahim al-Jaafari, reiterated his Government’s commitment to face up to terrorism, acknowledging that that fight was primarily Iraq’s responsibility.   At the same time, aerial support from partners had been welcome.  ISIL fighters must be removed, he insisted, including from neighbouring countries, and he called on Member States to remain committed to  preventing ISIL from profiting from the resources in the areas it controlled.

Following those statements, speakers in the Chamber welcomed the formation of the new Iraqi Government, expressing hope that it could help heal divisions between communities and help end support for ISIL.  Many expressed outrage over the human rights abuses by ISIL and its persecution of minority groups.

“It is the toxic mix of medieval ideology with modern weaponry,” the Canadian Foreign Minister said.  In that vein, many speakers took a firm stand for international efforts to defeat the group and pledged new or continued aid to assist Iraq in that fight.

Many who pledged support to that effort cautioned that it should be done according to the principles of the United Nations Charter.  The representative of the Russian Federation said that attacking the group at its bases in Syria must not be done without approval of the Syrian Government.  He also said the fight against terrorism must be consistent; it was ineffective to bomb some groups and arm others.  “We’re dealing with a unified, hydra-like opponent and any efforts to defeat it must be equally unified,” he said.

Some regional speakers spoke of a wider fight against terrorism and extremism in the Middle East and North Africa, with Egypt’s Foreign Minister describing struggles in his country and Libya.  Maintaining that fighting terrorism was primarily a regional responsibility, Bahrain’s Foreign Minister said that a holistic approach against ISIL should apply to Hizbullah and similar groups.  He urged Islamic authorities to speak out against ISIL and other extremists and discredit their Muslim claims.

Along those lines, representatives from several countries emphatically differentiated ISIL from Islam.  Oman’s Foreign Minister called it “the non-Islamic State”, and Italy’s Foreign Minister affirmed, “this is not a coalition of the West against Islam, but a global partnership in support of all of Iraq against a terrorist organization”.

In his statement, Secretary of State Kerry also underlined the importance of building a strong global coalition against the group, citing pledges from 50 countries already.  “The work to build and enhance this coalition will go on well after this week is over,” he said, adding, “in that way, we can defeat the ISIL threat wherever it exists”.

Also represented at the ministerial level this afternoon were Rwanda, Australia, Jordan, Luxembourg, France, Chad, Nigeria, Argentina, United Kingdom, Chile, Germany, Turkey, Spain, Norway, Netherlands, Qatar, Georgia, United Arab Emirates, Belgium, Iran, Japan, Denmark and Finland

Representatives of China, Lithuania, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Poland, Albania, New Zealand and Syria also spoke.

The meeting began at 2:15 p.m. and ended at 6:35 p.m.

Briefing

NICKOLAY MLADENOV, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq, welcomed the Security Council’s continued efforts and support to the people and Government of Iraq.  Calls for inclusive political engagement and Government formation had not gone unheeded.  The Council, through the relevant resolution and presidential statements condemning violence and human rights violations, had continued to encourage the Iraqis.  Despite the deteriorating security, they had voted in a competitive election, followed by a peaceful transition of power.  As the country’s new Government moved to restore security and national unity, Iraqis looked to the international community and the United Nations for collective measures to address the threat to peace in the country and region from the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).

However, he said, despite recent successes by the Iraqi Security Forces and Kurdish Peshmerga operations that had returned some areas back to the control of the legitimate authorities, ISIL had been able to take the key town of Duleueeya in Salahadine Province, exacerbating the existing humanitarian catastrophe.  An emergency was escalating with up to 1.8 million Iraqis displaced since January.  Some 850,000 had sought refuge in the Kurdistan Region, while an additional 10,000 families from Diyala Province were recently displaced from their homes.  The humanitarian crisis had placed pressure on local communities across the country as thousands fled the conflict areas, creating a massive shelter crisis.  With winter approaching, immediate and critical measures must be enacted.  In addition, with 2,000 schools being used as shelters, the school year had been delayed by a month.

The United Nations had mounted a massive humanitarian effort, but still faced the “immense challenges” of reaching 650,000 people in areas of active conflict, he said, calling on the Iraqi Government to establish a national strategy to address internally displaced persons, the restoration of salaries and essential social services.  The United Nations stood ready to assist with technical support to improve coordination and delivery of humanitarian aid, he said, also acknowledging the support of Member States, including that of Saudi Arabia which had contributed $500 million of the $712 million earmarked for the United Nations humanitarian effort.  Over 60 per cent had been spent on tents and food, among other items.  However, available funding would soon be exhausted and additional support would be needed to prepare for “this period that could be fatal for many without shelter”.

There had been at least 25,000 civilian casualties since January, with many minority communities targeted by ISIL as it sought to “cleanse” the territories in their control, he said.  The United Nations Mission had conducted more than 500 interviews with victims and witnesses verifying systematic and wide-spread human rights violations by ISIL and associated armed groups, as well as violations committed by those groups supportive of the Government.  In that regard, the United Nations Human Rights Council’s decision to dispatch a mission to Iraq to investigate those allegations was welcome.  Stakeholders were also committed to ensuring that security be provided in line with rule of law, the Constitution, international humanitarian law and human rights standards.  The Iraqi Constitution remained the guiding framework for legitimate resolution of the issues.

He welcomed the recent orders by the Prime Minister to suspend Iraqi Air Force strikes in civilian areas, including ISIL-controlled areas.  The Council of Ministers also had initiated the drafting of a law to establish the National Guard.   The Federal Government and the Kurdistan region should resolve outstanding budgetary disputes and restore subsidies to the provinces of Dohuk, Erbil and Sulaymaniiyah.

He noted the recent adoption of resolution 2170 (2014) calling on Member States to suppress the flow of foreign fighters, financing and other support to Islamist extremist groups in Iraq and Syria, among other international and regional actions, all of which strengthened international support for Iraq.  ISIL was a scourge that had brought “untold sorrow” to the people of Iraq and Syria, he said, adding, “they have shown contempt for equality, fundamental human rights and the dignity and worth of the human person”.  Showing distain for international law, their “perverse ideas of justice were evidence of their “deep reaction against the progress humanity has made over centuries”, he stated.  Nonetheless, however grave the threat, it could be addressed if Iraq, the region and the world worked together, within the framework of the United Nations Charter and relevant Security Council resolutions.

Statements

IBRAHIM AL-JAAFARI, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iraq, reiterated his Government’s commitment to face up to terrorism as a scourge that must be eliminated and end the influx of fighters from around the world.  In spite of the challenges, the newly elected Government had cooperated with humanitarian efforts to provide relief and was able to form a unity Government, while taking the necessary measures to fight terrorism.  That fight was primarily Iraq’s responsibility, however, assistance in the form of aerial support from partners was welcome.  All ISIL fighters must be removed, including from neighbouring countries.

He called on Member States to remain committed to implementation of all relevant Council resolutions and to prevent ISIL from profiting from the resources in the areas it controlled.  The extremist ideas behind the group should be countered at all levels, he stressed, expressing appreciation for the American, European and regional assistance that had so far been provided.  He also voiced appreciation for the efforts of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) in assisting the country during its crisis.

JOHN KERRY, Secretary of State of the United States, speaking in his national capacity, expressed thanks for the significant support shown by countries from all over the world to the new Iraqi Government and the suppression of ISIL.  The new Government had already made great strides in a short period of time, and had affirmed its intention to overcome the differences that had divided Iraq.  The country had responded to the ISIL threat with a degree of unity not seen recently.

ISIL was a terrorist organization, pure and simple, he said, unique in its brutality, and it had promised to bring its evil to the entire world.  It must be defeated through a “holistic global campaign”, one from which it could not find safe haven.  The assistance of all concerned countries was needed, including Iran, as well as the 50 countries from which he had enlisted commitments in recent weeks, he said, noting commitments from, among others, Egypt, Saudi Arabia Germany and France.  Dozens of countries had pledged some $1 billion for humanitarian aid.  Bahrain had offered to host a conference on terrorist financing.

The dangers of worldwide terrorist recruitment, he said, would be discussed at a Security Council summit on 24 September.  It was time to put an end to ISIL, an organization that was distorting Islam, banning mathematics and spreading extremist views.  Islamic authorities and international education initiatives were important in that context, however, Iraq must take the lead in all efforts to defend its citizens.  It had pledged to do so, but the work of attracting support for the effort would continue.  “The work to build and enhance this coalition will go on well after this week is over,” he concluded.  “We can defeat the ISIL threat where ever it exists,” he said.

LOUISE MUSHIKIWABO, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Rwanda, welcomed the show of will in the Council to defend the Iraqi people.  Council negligence of its duties could only have negative effects; ISIL had been growing in the midst of the Syrian crisis.  The plight of many Iraqis today was not different from that of Rwandans 20 years ago who were facing cruelty and looking for help from the international community.  The world must act swiftly to eradicate the ISIL threat, through an Iraqi-led effort.  She welcomed the United States’ role in garnering support for the effort, as well as regional and international conferences that had been conducted or planned.  Targeted sanctions and education to prevent radicalisation were also needed, as was enhanced humanitarian support to those affected.

JULIE BISHOP, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia, endorsing the presidential statement, underscored that ISIL’s atrocities had “shocked us all”.  The beheading of journalists and a humanitarian worker was “utterly despicable”.  The photos of an Australian child with his father, an ISIL leader holding the severed head of a solider demonstrated the hideous acts that group could perpetrate.  The international community could not turn away and leave the people of Iraq to face such cruelty alone.  ISIL posed a threat to the region and the world.  Her country was preparing to deploy military forces to support Iraq and would be contributing financially for the needs of women and girls.  An additional $5 million had been contributed to humanitarian needs.  The conflict must end, she stressed.  The international community must not stand by and do nothing, which was why Australia was joining international partners in the fight against ISIL.

NASSER JUDEH, Minister for Foreign and Expatriates Affairs of Jordan, said the crisis was now a threat to both the region and the international community.  ISIL had taken advantage of security and political vacuums.  The relevant resolution had made it possible to tackle the threat, and in that context, he welcomed the Council summit on foreign combatants to be held by United States President Barack Obama, as well as the Bahrain conference addressing financing sources for extremist and terrorist organizations.  Jordan had long warned of the possible spread of the Syrian crisis, specifically to Iraq.  Because ISIL took advantage of conditions that resulted from political and security vacuums, only an inclusive political process could combat it.  Jordan stood by Iraq’s side to fight ISIL.  Stressing his country’s efforts towards tolerance, he emphasized that “Islam is innocent of these heinous crimes being committed today”.

JEAN ASSELBORN, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs of Luxembourg, said that the recent violence had reached an “inconceivable level, magnitude and intensity”, with children being forced by ISIL to bear arms and commit suicide attacks.  He supported the commitment of the coalition launched by the United States and the Iraqi authorities, and the active support of States in the region, but urged that humanitarian assistance and efforts to protect civilians be stepped up.  Luxembourg was providing financial support to the World Food Programme (WFP) and to efforts to help displaced people.  However, the security situation would, first and foremost, depend on progress in the political sphere.  In that, he welcomed the formation of the new Iraqi Government.  It was a “matter of urgency” to restart the national dialogue and national reconciliation, which were essential conditions for peace and social order.  “Islam is alienated from its philosophy of peace by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant,” he stated, calling on religious leaders to continue to promote the values and the humanism of Islam.

LAURENT FABIUS, Minister for Foreign Affairs of France, said that ISIL was not a State or a representation of Islam, “it was just a group of throat cutters”, and it would like to have the entire world at the end of their knives.  Inaction was not an option, so France had shouldered its responsibilities as it had done in many other areas of the world, by providing humanitarian aid, military equipment and responding to the call of the Iraqi Government for air support, starting this morning.  It would coordinate with all those that wished to support Iraq in that way.  That country had divided the Council in 2003; now there must be international solidarity.  Iraq also needed internal unity to deal with the threat, for which the formation of the new Government provided hope.  Swift action must be taken on all fronts.  “The throat cutters must be defeated,” he said.

MOUSSA FAKI MAHAMAT, Minister for Foreign Affairs and African Integration of Chad, said that international terrorism, which had proliferated under many names, must be defeated, including ISIL in Iraq.  Chad was fighting terrorism in Mali, where it had sacrificed the lives of its troops, and was supporting the multilateral effort against ISIL.  It was important to deal with the root causes of such terrorism, including the ongoing situation in Syria, as well as the marginalization of populations in Iraq.  Iraq must be supported in its effort to bring all Iraqis together in order to turn a new page in its history.  Militia participation in the military could only hurt that effort.

EDUARDO ZUAIN, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Argentina, concurred that ISIL was a threat to the entire region and world as a whole.  He expressed solidarity with the Iraqi people and the new Government and with all who suffered because of the current conflict.  Root causes must be dealt with; ISIL was exploiting resentments that had built over decades.  For that reason, he welcomed the stated goals of the new Government, adding that any coalition that emerged to fight ISIL must respect international law and not act unilaterally.  It also must implement resolutions of the Security Council.  A negotiated solution to the crisis in Syria must be encouraged, as well, and socioeconomic development must be promoted in the region, with adequate international assistance for that purpose.

TOBIAS ELLWOOD, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office ( United Kingdom), said that the new Government was a critical first step to stabilizing Iraq.  The international community must now help the new Government, which must demonstrate its commitment to reforms, with all actors putting aside their differences.  ISIL was using its territories to prepare attacks against the West and in the region.  The recent killing of a British aid worker, which had followed the beheading of two United States’ journalists, was a demonstration of ISIL’S threat, and the United Kingdom was prepared to work closely with the Iraqi Government to address it.  “We must use all the tools at our disposal to dismantle ISIL,” he stressed, noting that his country was providing equipment and machinery to Iraq, as well as humanitarian assistance, including $37 million in an immediate contribution to provide clean water and sanitation.  It had also contributed $1 billion to Syria, which was reaching all communities there, including those most at risk from ISIL.  He affirmed his  steadfast support to Iraq and to efforts to rid the world of ISIL — “this repugnant organization” — but stressed that the solution lay in a stable, inclusive Government in Iraq.

EDGARDO RIVEROS, Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Chile cast a clear vote of solidarity with Iraq and its new Prime Minister.  That country had always been a central Power in the region and its territorial integrity and democratic viability were prerequisites for regional stability and international peace and security.  That required Iraq’s scrupulous respect for the constitutional and civil rights of ethnic and religious communities, and a Government of national unity with inclusive policies.  The United Nations had a duty to assist Iraq, in line with the Charter and relevant resolutions.  Further to that architecture would be a resolution on foreign terrorist fighters, which would be discussed and adopted by the Council next week.  He stressed that any collective actions against the “Islamic State” must be sanctioned by the Charter.  With the unanimous backing of the Council, counter-terrorism efforts would received world support.

U. JOY OGWU ( Nigeria) said she was encouraged by the Iraqi Government’s efforts to put aside differences to stabilize the country.  However, she expressed hope that the positions of Minister for Defence and Minister for the Interior would be filled in due course, in light of the security situation.  The activities of “ISIS” and other groups threatened Iraq but were also threats to global peace and security.  It had been stated incessantly that terrorism was a global problem requiring a global solution.  The world must stand together to tackle it.  Decisive action by the international community in support of Iraq was vital.  Also crucial was a counter to “ ISIS’“ dangerous message to young people around the world, and she welcomed its repudiation by Arab States.  As the response gathered momentum, she urged all Member States to work collectively and closely to free the world of that threat once and for all.

VITALY CHURKIN ( Russian Federation) said that his country had consistently supported a stable Iraq capable of managing its own affairs.  The fight against terrorism, he averred, must be supported by the international community, but that effort must be consistent.  Bombing terrorists in one area while assisting them in another was not good practice.  ISIL had arisen in Syria where terrorists were being supplied by some of those who wanted to defeat that group.  “We’re dealing with a unified, hydra-like opponent and any efforts to defeat it must be equally unified,” he said.

Interventions, he added, should be carried out either with the approval of the relevant Government or of the Security Council.  In that light, he expressed concern over discussion of attacks on ISIL in Syrian territory without the approval of the Syrian Government.  Giving arms to groups was not a cure either; ISIL had seized arms provided to other forces.  Channels of arming and financing must be cut off in a systematic matter.  Other systematic efforts should be taken worldwide, including best use of all the United Nations sanctions regimes.  The Russian Federation was committed to working in such a systematic fight against terrorism.

WANG MIN ( China) supported Iraq’s efforts to strengthen its security and its political process.  The international community should support reconciliation between all communities and augment humanitarian assistance, with due respect for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.  The international community should assist Iraq in fighting terrorism in line with the Charter.  It should fight the international movement of terrorists and their use of digital communications.  In the effort, it was important not to associate terrorism with any particular religion or ethnic group.  Also important was to engender peaceful resolution of the conflicts in the region, in a manner that took into account the cultures there.  China would continue its cooperation with the people of Iraq according to their needs, and was willing to work with the international community in favour of peace and a better life for all Iraqis.

RAIMONDA MURMOKAITĖ ( Lithuania) said that an inclusive and democratic Iraq was the only effective answer to ISIL’s brutal onslaught.  She welcomed in that light the formation of an inclusive Government.  Past divisiveness must be overcome and the equal participation of minority groups must be guaranteed.  Integration of the security forces remained a key priority.  Her country had contributed humanitarian assistance to the country, she said, calling for the entire international community to come together to provide support for Iraq’s development and security efforts.  Counter-terrorism efforts must be well-coordinated and systematic.  At the same time, ending the terrorist threat could not be done without winning the hearts and minds of all the Iraqi people, she cautioned.

JOON OH ( Republic of Korea) said that those responsible of such heinous crimes should be brought to justice.  Voicing concern about the humanitarian crisis in Iraq, he stressed the strength of the Iraqi people and the collective strength of the international community.  Iraqis had chosen peace and democracy, and the new Government was committed to strengthening State institutions and establishing a national inclusive dialogue.  The Republic of Korea had given $1.2 million, and planned a larger contribution in the future.  His country had contributed a total of $11 million to Syria.  While holding on to hope for a better future, he said no help from the outside could replace the Iraqi people’s own endeavour for their future.  No society should be shaped by extremism, he said, but by the common yearning of the people for peace.  The people of Iraq had stated their desire.

FRANK-WALTER STEINMEIER, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany, said that humanitarian aid was necessary, but not sufficient to stop the violence.  His Government, therefore, had decided to provide the Kurdish security forces with weapons, ammunition, equipment and training, in close coordination with the Iraqi Government.  But, humanitarian and military assistance also required a political strategy against ISIL, he said, welcoming the formation of the new, inclusive Iraqi Government.  In Syria, Germany would seek to strengthen moderate voices and structures as they were the “only alternative to dictatorship or terrorism”.  To ease the hardship of Syrian refugees and the strain on Syria’s neighbours, his country would be hosting a conference, together with Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), in October in Berlin, with a goal to increase support for the countries most affected by refugee flows from Syria.  He also called for an end to finance and foreign fighter flows to ISIL.

MEVLÜT ÇAVUŞOĞLU, Minister for Foreign Minister of Turkey, expressed hope that the meeting would help to stem the crisis in the region.  Priorities should focus on the development of policies and actions.  Efforts must ensure that every component of the Iraqi nation allowed its people a voice, and the new Government had made great strides in that regard.  However, much more needed to be done, including reversing the security situation and addressing the long-standing ethnic tensions and sectarian divisions.  A defence infrastructure should be supported and guided towards a future where the Iraqis could defend themselves.  Turkey’s humanitarian support was ongoing, with three camps now welcoming 35,000 people, and assistance being given to 38,000 refugees.  Only yesterday, Turkey welcomed 10,000 displaced people fleeing “ ISIS”.  Syria and Iraq should be treated as a single “theatre” of action, and a political solution was a must.

JOSÉ MANUEL GARCÍA-MARGALLO, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Spain, said that it was impossible to remain impassive in the face of ISIL’s shocking crimes, but any interventions must be based on the principles of the Charter of the United Nations.  The Council had provided legitimacy for the fight, and he looked to further action to help countries counter terrorism.  Inclusive Government in Iraq was critical in that effort.  The international community should support initiatives for dialogue between peoples and democratic transitions in the Arab world, as Spain had done through various projects.  His country would also assist Iraqi security with a range of logistical and material support, he pledged.  “The Iraqi people can count out Spain in the services of this just cause,” he said.

BØRGE BRENDE, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Norway, said it was encouraging to see Iraq’s neighbours come together with the international community in support of the Iraqi people.  He was also encouraged by the formation of a new Government there.  He stressed that extremism and terrorism must be fought comprehensively — in the classroom, in parliaments and through humanitarian aid.  Norway had provided much aid for that purpose and was considering more, along with military assistance to Iraq.  To stop ISIL, there was also an urgent need for a negotiated end to the conflict in Syria.  Norway would continue to stand with the people of Iraq, he concluded.

JOHN BAIRD, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Canada, said that ISIL, as a terrorist army, presented a new threat.  “It is the toxic mix of medieval ideology with modern weaponry,” he said.  Its brutality would not cow the international community.  Canada was supporting Iraqi forces in the front lines and was working in many other arenas, including through humanitarian aid.  There was no question that ISIL threatened global security, and to defeat it, he called for unyielding dedication to the principles of human liberty and dignity.  Those had withstood the tests of fascism, communism and now terrorism.

FEDERICA MOGHERINI, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Italy, recalling that ISIL’s war against all Iraqis had brought about an inclusive Government, said that the presidential statement would also help to provide the global framework for international partnerships, mainly aimed at responding to a threat to the entire world.  Italy would be sending flights of humanitarian aid, as well as contributing through United Nations’ agencies.  Furthermore, it would contribute military support to Iraq, with arms and ammunition, and was ready and willing to do more through training, advice and logistical support.  The most precious support to Iraq would be political, she said, stressing the importance for all actors to work together.  In that context, she believed that Iran could and would play a positive role against ISIL.  A common strategy against foreign fighters and financial activities was needed, as well as work with countries that were hosting refugees, in particular, Lebanon and Jordan.  “This is not a coalition of the West against Islam, but a global partnership in support of all of Iraq against a terrorist organization,” she stated.

FRANS TIMMERMANS, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, said that the international community had stood on the sidelines of unacceptable violence in the region for too long and had witnessed inaction in the Security Council over the past years in regard to Syria, where more than 190,000 people had been killed.  Iraq had been devoid of unity and the new Government had a pivotal role in maintaining a credible, inclusive course.  “ISIS” could not be defeated in Iraq alone, but needed to be confronted in Syria, as well, as the group constituted a direct threat to the region and to countries around the world.  Recalling seeing a 10-year old boy in The Hague wearing a Netherlands soccer jersey and waving an “ ISIS” flag, he asked how that could have happened.  It was critical to address that threat on all fronts.  He praised Turkey for opening its borders to refugees from Kobani today, which underlined the importance of regional cooperation.

SAMEH SHOUKRY, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Egypt, underscored the importance of the meeting for creating an international partnership to address the terrorist growing threat.  Recalling the recent meeting on terrorism held in Jedda, he said it had concentrated on ISIL as the gravest threat to the region.  The meeting today was an expression of international commitment to confront the Iraqi crisis.  ISIL was a comprehensive threat for everyone, particularly in the Arab region, he said, noting that in reality it was a worldwide organization.  His Government had confronted “their evil plots” and had rid the Muslim Brotherhood of its ideology.  The international community must not stop at half-solutions, but must confront those States helping those terrorist organizations.  It must stand up to common responsibility in order to confront and defeat that barbaric threat.

SHEIKH KHALID BIN AHMED BIN MOHAMMED AL KHALIFA, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bahrain, said given the atrocities committed by ISIL, the international community should commit itself to no less than the complete elimination of the group.  Bahrain had always shouldered its fair share of the burden for regional security and stood read to contribute to the fight against ISIL.  “The countries of the region must lead in the fight against terrorism among us,” he said, urging Islamic leaders and scholars to continue to speak out and discredit the group’s Muslim claims.  In addition, ISIL must be fought on the financial front, which would be the subject of an upcoming conference in Bahrain.  His country was also countering travel of potential terrorists to conflict zones.  Maintaining that fighting terrorism was a regional responsibility, he said that a holistic approach against it should apply to Hizbullah and other groups.

KHALID BIN MOHAMMAD AL-ATTIYAH, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Qatar, welcomed the presidential statement and the formation of the new Iraqi Government.  He looked forward to the completion of a Government of national unity and reconciliation in Iraq through national dialogue.  To fight the terrorist threat in the region, cooperation was needed, as well as addressing the causes that create an environment for terrorist recruitment, he said, adding that terrorists and repressive regimes were two sides of the same coin.  Qatar had established an air bridge for humanitarian aid in Iraq and would continue to assist its neighbours.

YOUSEF BIN ALAWI BIN ABDULLAH, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs of Oman, said his country condemned all terrorism in the region and deplored the crimes of what he called the “Non-Islamic State”.  The world must come together to eradicate such groups in ways determined by the Security Council.  Effective, punitive measures should be taken, lest this group cross borders into other States.  His country would support praiseworthy international efforts, which he hoped it would lead to victory for the international community.

MAIA PANJIKIDZE, Minister for foreign Affairs of Georgia, said that recent events had demonstrated that “we cannot take our security for granted”.  It was important for like-minded democracies to stand united to protect and promote freedom.  Noting that European security was being challenged by the Russian Federation’s military aggression against Ukraine, she pointed out that her country had also suffered from Russian military aggression and ongoing occupation of its two regions.  Concerning the new Government of Iraq, she commended its efforts for an inclusive political process and improved security, despite the threat from ISIL.  Such terrorist groups posed a threat to the entire world, and Georgia stood ready to provide humanitarian assistance and to working with the United States and other coalition partners in coming days and weeks.

SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN ZAYED AL NAHYAN, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates, reaffirmed the country’s support for Iraq’s new Government, and urged it not to fall back on sectarian policies.  As an Arab and a Muslim, he absolutely rejected calling the armed group the “Islamic State”, and he urged others to join him in condemning the group and the violation of what was dear to all Muslims.  ISIL was nothing more than a criminal gang.  It was important that its actions not lead to the marginalization of the Sunni community of Iraq.  A comprehensive strategy was critical to addressing the terrorist threat, and it should apply to all areas of conflict and all other terrorist groups in the region and in Africa.  Those were opportunists, nurtured in environments that allowed sectarian policies.  Foreign fighters were being recruited in all areas, and it was critical to find national partnerships to deal with the root causes, including through inclusive programmes.  In closing, he commended Kurdish forces in fighting “ISIS”, voicing hope that the Kurdish region stayed stable and part of Iraq.

ARMAND DE DECKER, Minister for State of Belgium, stressed that the long-term solution to ISIL was political.  The new Iraqi Government and newly appointed Prime Minister were steps in the right direction, but the Government now needed to author inclusive policies.  The international community also must show its long-term commitment and support.  Humanitarian solidarity with Syria was essential and Belgium had contributed aid.  The fight against ISIL should be targeted and should prevent the group from benefiting from oil revenue.  Belgians were among the many Western Jihadis fighting with ISIL and one such person had committed a terror attack in Brussels in May.  To counter the threat, Belgium was working with other States.  International action required legitimacy and would be strengthened by a United Nations resolution.  With parliamentary approval, Belgium would contribute to a military mission.

ABBAS ARAGHCHI, Deputy Foreign Minister for International and Legal Affairs of Iran, agreed that ISIL was neither Islamic nor a State.  ISIL was not new, as it developed after the invasion of Iraq, and grew in the Syrian conflict.  Military intervention and attempts at social engineering in the Middle East had strengthened and helped spread extremism.  The situation was worse now than in 2001.  A regional problem required a remedy that originated within the region.  The international strategy against ISIL should comply with international law and the United Nations Charter, and should include more support for the Iraqi Government with the help of all States and their capacities.  Consistency was vital, and all central authorities, including the Syrian Government, needed support.  Resolving the Syrian crisis required a political solution, he said, also calling for an end to the Israeli occupation of Arab land and Islamophobia.

KENTARO SONOURA, Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, said ISIL threatened order in the international community.  He stressed the need for political stability in Iraq, while welcoming the new and inclusive Iraqi Government.  He noted Japan’s efforts to support the Government’s nation-building and he committed a further $25.5 million in addition to the $7.8 million already committed.  Assistance and strengthening of governance could help build the public sector and legal capacity, and with Japan’s competency in that area, it would continue to pursue that policy.  The presence of foreign fighters was a major worry, and his country would take various measures to contain that threat.

ULRIK VESTERGAARD KNUDSEN, Permanent Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs of Denmark, stressed the role of the new Iraqi Government in fighting ISIL, noting that his country was contributing significant political, military and humanitarian assistance.  Denmark was ready to increase humanitarian assistance and wanted a long-term partnership with the Iraqi Government.  For the international community, sharing lessons and best practices would help prevent radicalization, and Denmark and Mali would hold an event in New York on the subject on 23 September.  To disable and dismantle ISIL, the world must recognize the threat it posed and forge a broad alliance to neutralize it.  Moderate forces in Iraq and across the region needed steadfast support, and unity of international purpose was vital.

PETER STENLUND, Secretary of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland, said that the new Iraqi Government was an important step forward and that the international community needed to continue its support to the country.  He also called for responsible religious and traditional leaders to play a constructive role in reconciliation and in uniting the Iraqi people to fight ISIL.  Among other efforts, his country had contributed half a million Euros through the World Food Programme and to humanitarian efforts in Syria, totalling €30 million.  He stressed that women’s full participation was a priority in building an inclusive society.  The ISIL threat could be countered only with a broad and inclusive coalition supported by the United Nations, and Governments directly threatened should play a prominent role.  Finland would participate through capacity-building, among other things, and although he recognized the need for a military response, his country was not planning to participate in combat or arms deliveries.

ABDALLAH Y. AL-MOUALLIMI ( Saudi Arabia) said he was pleased at the newly formed Iraqi Government and voiced hope that country would recover its strength.  The international community should contribute its full support to Iraq.  As it took its first steps away from sectarianism, his country had “held out its hand” to all sectors of the Iraqi people.  Plus, it had contributed approximately $50 million to assisting refugees and displaced people.  Sectarianism, as well as repression and oppression, created fertile ground for terrorism, with ISIL being a prime example in that regard.  Its crimes had nothing to do with Islam.  A collective vision was needed to overcome terrorism.  The rapid action by his Government, which had called for the Jedda meeting, was an expression of its commitment.  Islamic teachers were also condemning ISIL’s teachings, calling their actions “crimes”.  His country, a target and victim of terrorism, had given $100 million to the United Nations to establish a counter-terrorism centre.  He stressed that without a comprehensive strategy to combat terrorism, “all would be in vain”.

NAWAF SALAM ( Iraq) said that the present could not be separated from the history of Mesopotamia.  “In every one of us, there is a part of Iraq,” he stated, as mankind had discovered agriculture between the Tiger and the Euphrates.  Commending resolution 2170 (2014) and today’s presidential statement, he called on the international community to remain united.  The elimination of terrorism could not be limited to military operations, but required a comprehensive political, economic and social approach.  The Security Council was expected to provide the Iraqi Government with all necessary support.  An Iraq safeguarded from national, religious and sectarian aspects would benefit, not only that country, but all Arabs and Muslims, he declared.

BOGUSLAW WINID ( Poland) described his country’s efforts in support of peace and security in Iraq, since 2003.  The number of internally displaced persons and refugees had grown, requiring for more humanitarian assistance.  The Iraqi Government had to do more to protect minorities, while international criminal mechanisms had to address crimes committed.  An urgent international response was needed to counter ISIL and its major negative impact on the region.  Among Poland’s humanitarian efforts, an aircraft had delivered eight tons of assistance in Northern Iraq, and funding had been given to a school in Erbil for refugees.  The new Iraqi Government was a welcome development and he hoped it would work for national reconciliation in the interests of all Iraqi citizens.

FERIT HOXHA ( Albania) said ISIL was “a disgrace to the faith it proclaims to defend”.  Countless Islamic groups around the globe had vehemently rejected ISIL and its abhorrent actions and they were right.  ISIL were just “terrorists, ruthless assassins ready to slaughter whoever stands in their way”.  Albania was part of the international coalition against the group, supporting the Iraqi Government and committed to providing military and humanitarian assistance.  It had accommodated 240 out of 377 refugees transferred from the Hurriya Camp.

JIM MCLAY ( New Zealand) was outraged by ISIL’s actions, appalled by the loss of life and displacement and wide-spread human rights abuses, and shocked at the humanitarian crisis.  New Zealand had made two humanitarian contributions through UNHCR to internally displaced persons in Iraq.  Welcoming the new Government, he noted that an election in New Zealand scheduled for tomorrow placed some limits on his ability to make new commitments today, but he welcomed the international determination to address the threat of ISIL and the humanitarian situation in Iraq.  Particularly welcome were efforts by Arab States; the support of the wider region was essential if results were to be enduring.

BASHAR JA’AFARI (Syria), calling for an end to terrorism, said some speakers had gone beyond the agenda item under consideration, mentioning Syria erroneously and provocatively, particularly when speaking of combating ISIL.  Mr. Kerry’s statement was balanced in its wording, but others attempted to divert attention from the crucial issue at hand, which was supporting Iraq and Syria against ISIL and Jabat Al-Nusra, along with their affiliates.  There was one war and it was being fought against one heinous enemy.  Syria was working to tackle terrorism and he was relieved that the international community had acknowledged the facts that he had continually transmitted to the Council and Member States about it.  Additional efforts to combat terrorism must be based entirely on the Charter and international law, especially with respect to the sovereignty of States.  Efforts to combat terrorism should be made in coordination with the Syrian Government.

Saudi Wahabbi extremist ideology underpinned ISIL, he added, with thousands of Saudis fighting with the group.  That was the same ideology that had motivated those who had carried out the 11 September 2001 attacks.  He noted that those terrorists were also Saudi, not Syrian.  He added that events shaping the region stemmed from collusion between Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Qatar.

Presidential Statement

The text of presidential statement S/PRST/2014/20 reads as follows:

“The Security Council welcomes the newly formed Government of Iraq and calls on the international community to support its efforts to strengthen further democratic institutions, to maintain security and combat terrorism and to create a safe, stable and prosperous future for the people of Iraq.  The Security Council reaffirms its support for the independence, sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Iraq and reaffirms further the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations.

“The Security Council underscores the need for all segments of the Iraqi population to participate in the political process and engage in political dialogue.  The Security Council is encouraged by the Iraqi Government’s commitment to resolve long-standing issues through an inclusive political process and consistent with the Iraqi Constitution and look forward to implementation of this commitment through its new national agenda.  The Security Council encourages Iraq’s leaders to accelerate implementation of this agenda and national reconciliation to address the needs of Iraq’s diverse communities.

“The Security Council also urges Member States to work closely with the Government of Iraq to identify how best the international community can aid implementation of the new Iraqi agenda.  The Security Council reaffirms its full support for the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) in advising and assisting the Iraqi people and the Government of Iraq in strengthening democratic institutions and advancing inclusive political dialogue.

“The Security Council strongly condemns attacks by terrorist organizations, including the terrorist organization operating under the name ‘Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant’ (ISIL) and associated armed groups, in Iraq, Syria and Lebanon and emphasizes that this large-scale offensive poses a major threat to the region.  The Security Council expresses again its deep outrage about all Iraqis, as well as nationals of other States who have been killed, kidnapped, raped or tortured by ISIL, as well as its recruitment and use of children.  The Security Council stresses the need that those who have committed or are otherwise responsible for violations of international humanitarian law or violations or abuses of human rights in Iraq must be held accountable, noting that some of these acts  may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity.  The Security Council stresses the need for those responsible for such violations of international humanitarian law or violations or abuses of human rights to be held to account, and calls upon the Government of Iraq and the international community to work towards ensuring that all perpetrators are brought to justice.

“The Security Council welcomes the Government of Iraq’s efforts, in association with local and regional authorities, to combat the terrorist threat facing all Iraqis, including members of its ethnic and religious minorities, notably Yezidis and Christians, and women from all communities who have been particularly targeted by ISIL.

“The Security Council reaffirms that all parties, including ISIL, associated armed groups, and other militias, must respect the human rights of the Iraqi people and abide by all applicable obligations under international humanitarian law, including those protecting the civilian population, by which both official Iraqi forces and member states that assist them must also abide.

“The Security Council also recognizes the steps taken to address the urgent humanitarian needs of those displaced by the current conflict.  The Security Council calls for an intensification of these efforts by all parties and urges all Member States to continue to fund the UN humanitarian appeals.

“The Security Council urges the international community, in accordance with international law, to further strengthen and expand support for the Government of Iraq as it fights ISIL and associated armed groups.  The Security Council welcomes the International Conference on Peace and Security in Iraq that took place in Paris on 15 September 2014 and the summit-level meeting of the Security Council responding to the global threat posed by foreign terrorist fighters that is scheduled for 24 September.

“The Security Council stresses that terrorism can only be defeated by a sustained and comprehensive approach involving the active participation and collaboration of all States, as well as international and regional organizations, to impede, impair, isolate and incapacitate the terrorist threat.

“The Security Council reiterates the urgent need to stop any direct or indirect trade in oil from Iraq involving ISIL with the aim to put an end to financing terrorism.

“The Security Council supports Iraq’s further economic, social, political and diplomatic integration into the region and the international community and calls upon regional States to engage more actively to facilitate this process.  The Security Council recognizesthat the situation that now exists in Iraq is significantly different from that which existed at the time of the adoption of resolution 661 (1990), and further recognizes the importance of Iraq achieving international standing equal to that which it held prior to the adoption of resolution 661 (1990).

“The Security Council reiterates that no terrorist act can reverse the path towards peace, democracy and reconstruction in Iraq, which is supported by the people and the Government of Iraq, and by the international community.”

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For information media • not an official record