Security Council Press Statement on Al-Shabaab Attack against UNICEF in Garowe, Somalia

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Dina Kawar (Jordan):

The members of the Security Council are outraged by today’s attack against a United Nations vehicle in Garowe, Somalia, for which Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility, and which has caused numerous deaths and injuries.  The members of the Security Council condemned this appalling act in the strongest terms.  The members of the Security Council offered their condolences to the families of the victims, and wished a speedy recovery to those who were injured.

The members of the Security Council are appalled that Al-Shabaab has targeted United Nations staff working to support children in Somalia.  They underlined their admiration and support for United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) staff and their vital work in Somalia.

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 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 repeated their determination to support the peace and reconciliation process in Somalia.   They underlined that recent terrorist attacks have only served to strengthen that determination.