Statement by Mr. Zhirayr Ananyan, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Republic of Armenia to the UN, at the UN Security Council Open Debate «Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question»

16 October, 2026

Madame President,

We congratulate Greece on assuming the Presidency of the United Nations Security Council and express our gratitude for holding today’s open debate on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

Armenia reiterates its firm commitment to the security and stability in the Middle East. The continued hostilities and tensions in the region have implications way beyond the region affecting global trade, transport connectivity and resulting in spillover of prices for critical goods, with exacerbating impact for the most vulnerable. We are concerned on the human casualties and suffering, destruction of critical civilian infrastructure and damage to renowned world heritage sites.

Armenia reaffirms its consistent support for resolving all disputes in the region exclusively through dialogue and negotiations. We are contributing to the security in the region and protection of conflict - affected population through providing humanitarian assistance, heritage protection, participation in peacekeeping missions and post - conflict recovery initiatives.

Madame President,

Armenia emphasizes the imperative of upholding the international humanitarian law and ensuring safe and unhindered humanitarian access, which is indispensable for achieving lasting peace. With regard to humanitarian issues, currently children from Gaza are receiving treatment in Yerevan hospitals with the support of the Government of Armenia and through cooperation with the WHO. We plan to continue this programme.

We condemn the attacks targeting Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, which have resulted in civilian casualties and express our solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Targeting of critical civilian infrastructure and facilities is unacceptable.

Madame President,

We also emphasize the importance of ensuring the safety, security, and human rights of Christian communities in the region. As one of the world's oldest Christian nations, we attach particular significance to preserving the Christian heritage in the Holy Land. Armenia hopes that the historic Status Quo arrangements governing the Christian holy sites in Jerusalem and beyond will be fully respected, as a cornerstone of interreligious harmony and peaceful coexistence.

Armenia closely follows the situation in Lebanon and is sincerely interested in its stability and peace. As a longstanding partner of Lebanon, Armenia reaffirms its firm support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity. Since 2014, Armenia has contributed to security efforts by participating in the UNIFIL mission with a peacekeeping contingent. In July 2026, the Government of the Republic of Armenia sent humanitarian consignment to the friendly people of Lebanon to alleviate the humanitarian suffering in the country.

We reiterate Armenia’s support for the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of friendly Syria. Armenia stands ready to contribute to post-conflict reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts, including by providing further humanitarian and medical assistance and by renewing humanitarian demining activities.

I thank you.

MFA RA
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