Security Council Press Statement on Al-Shabaab Attack in Somalia

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Elbio Rosselli (Uruguay):

The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the attack on 15 January 2016 perpetrated by Al-Shabaab in El-Ade, Somalia, which has resulted in a number of deaths and injuries.

The members of the Security Council expressed their deep sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the people and Government of Somalia and the Republic of Kenya.  The members of the Security Council wished a speedy recovery to those injured.

The members of the Security Council underscored their full support to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) in delivering their mandate to reduce the threat posed by the terrorist group Al-Shabaab and armed opposition groups in Somalia.  The members of the Security Council underscored their gratitude for the bravery and sacrifices of AMISOM personnel in carrying out their mandate.

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.

The members of the Security Council underlined the need to bring perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism to justice.  The members of the Security Council stressed that those responsible for these killings should be held accountable, and urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with all relevant authorities in this regard.

The members of the Security Council reiterated 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 reaffirmed the need for all States to combat by all means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and other obligations under international law, including international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts.

The members of the Security Council further stressed the need to take measures to prevent and suppress the financing of Al-Shabaab, and any other terrorist group in Somalia.

The members of the Security Council paid tribute to all international actors working to bring peace and stability in Somalia.  The members of the Security Council reiterated their determination to support the peace and reconciliation process in Somalia.  They underlined that neither this nor any other terrorist attack would weaken that determination.