BRUNEI DARUSSALAM'S STATEMENT ON
THE RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST
Brunei Darussalam strongly condemns the attacks by the Occupying Power in Palestine on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which resulted in injuries to several UNIFIL peacekeepers.
The deliberate attacks on UNIFIL troops are unjustifiable, and a clear violation of international law, international humanitarian law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701(2006).
Brunei Darussalam reiterates the important role of UNIFIL, which is mandated by the UN Security Council in restoring peace and security in Southern Lebanon. Brunei Darussalam demands that the UN Security Council fulfil its mandate in maintaining peace and international security, and urges the UN Security Council to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and security of the UNIFIL troops in Lebanon. We therefore support calls for an immediate and independent international inquiry that assesses the violation of this UN Security Council mandate and ensures accountability for such unacceptable actions.
Brunei Darussalam reiterates the importance of sustained peacekeeping operations, which includes ensuring the safe and unhindered efforts of the UNIFIL, including its assets. The Royal Brunei Armed Forces Officials serving under the Malaysian Battalion (Malbatt) 850-11 in Marakah (21 officials) and Tibnin (8 officials) are all safe and accounted for. Brunei Darussalam also expresses sympathy and solidarity with Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Ireland UNIFIL troops who have been injured in the attacks, and wishes them a speedy recovery.
We strongly urge the international community to take decisive measures to compel the Occupying Power to cease their continued and unacceptable aggressions in Palestine and Lebanon, which may prolong and destabilise the region's overall peace and stability.
*****