Statement by H.E. Sanita Pavļuta-Deslandes, Permanent Representative of Latvia to the UN at the UNSC Emergency Briefing on Lebanon
1 June 2026
Madame President,
Allow me to begin by thanking you for convening this meeting at such a short notice. I also thank France for requesting this meeting in light of the increasing escalation in Lebanon.
I thank ASG DPPA Martha Pobee for her briefing.
In April, the historic direct talks between Lebanon and Israel offered a glimmer of hope that there is a path towards sustainable stability and peace. We welcome the ongoing efforts of mediators, notably the United States, that continue advancing this objective. Stability in the region can only be achieved through political and diplomatic means.
Regrettably, the cessation of hostilities agreed on 16 April continues to be violated on a daily basis, undermining the efforts of Lebanon’s government to extend its authority across the country. A principal obstacle to Lebanon’s stability and sovereignty remains Hezbollah whose actions have repeatedly drawn Lebanon into conflict. We unequivocally condemn Hezbollah’s attacks against Israel; Hezbollah has repeatedly chosen Iran’s interests over those of the Lebanese people. It must cease its attacks immediately and Iran must cease its support to Hezbollah and instead support efforts aimed at de-escalation and long-term peace.
We reiterate our firm commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon. The implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, including the disarmament of Hezbollah and the extension of the Lebanese Armed Forces’ control throughout southern Lebanon, is a prerequisite for achieving lasting peace and security.
Israel has the right to defend itself against attacks launched by Hezbollah against its territory and population, however military operations must be conducted in accordance with the UN Charter, international law and IHL. We therefore call upon Israel to halt advance into Lebanese territory and refrain from attacks on heavily populated areas.
With more than one million people in Lebanon displaced by the conflict, new large-scale evacuation orders continue to aggravate an already severe humanitarian situation. Over 3000 people have been killed since March and approximately 10 000 have been injured. Of the displaced, at least 13 500 are pregnant women. In fact, UNIFIL has reported that most of the casualties in the south are women and children that have nowhere to go. Recently, IDF attacks on the city of Tyre have caused additional civilian casualties.
All parties must respect international law, including international humanitarian law, and ensure the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, including historic and cultural sites that enjoy special legal protection.
The capture of Beaufort castle reminds of the cycle of violence that happened 44 years ago. While Israel views its military operations as necessary for its security, the latest developments also highlight that military action alone will not achieve lasting stability.
Madame President,
Continued escalation is weakening Lebanese institutions (and reinforcing Hezbollah’s resistance narrative), which would not contribute to long-term security and stability for either Israel or Lebanon.
Efforts should instead be focused on supporting the bilateral mediation talks in Washington brokered by the United States; on implementing Resolution 1701 and expanding the control of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) in southern Lebanon; on dismantling Hezbollah and providing support to the Lebanese government in strengthening its authority as the sole and legitimate sovereign power.
The announcement today on the positive reactions by Lebanon, Israel and Hezbollah to the US proposal for a reciprocal cessation of attacks in encouraging – it must be followed by genuine implementation and tangible steps. It is the collective responsibility of this Council to ensure peace and security in the region. We urge all parties to prioritize de-escalation, peace, and sustainable security.