National Statement of Finland at the UNSC quarterly debate on the Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question

Read the National Statement delivered by H.E. Ms. Elina Kalkku, Permanent Representative of Finland to the United Nations, at the UN Security Council quarterly debate on the Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question on October 15, 2026.

Mme President,

Finland aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union.

We remain deeply concerned of the continuing military escalation across the region, and call for immediate de-escalation and negotiated solutions for the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. We strongly condemn attacks by Iran and the Houthis against neighboring countries. Safe navigation and freedom of transit through these waterways must be preserved, in accordance with international law. Finland contributes to regional maritime security through the EU’s Operation Aspides.

Finland urges all parties to accelerate implementation of the Gaza peace plan, in accordance with Security Council resolution 2803, and follow the path outlined in the New York Declaration, to reach the two-state solution. (The President of the Republic of Finland attended the anniversary meeting of the New York Declaration during the HLW, presided by the President of France and the Prime Minister of the UK.) Hamas must disarm, and Israel must withdraw and enable humanitarian assistance at scale, including by opening additional crossings and allowing UNRWA to carry out its mandate.

We are deeply concerned about the situation in the occupied West Bank. Israel must halt settlement expansion and respect international law. We particularly call for the withdrawal of the E1 settlement plans, which would further fragment the West Bank, isolate East Jerusalem, and undermine the viability of the two-state solution.

Finland remains firmly committed to a two-state solution and continues its long-standing support for the Palestinian Authority through humanitarian assistance, education, health, and state-building efforts. We regret the postponement of legislative elections and encourage organizing them as soon as circumstances permit.

Mme President,

A ceasefire and renewed negotiations between Israel and Lebanon are essential for lasting peace. We welcome the U.S.-brokered framework agreement and stress the continued importance of a UN presence to support implementation of resolution 1701. Finland also welcomes the EU Support Mission in Lebanon and intends to contribute to it.

Mme President,

We congratulate Syria for making encouraging progress in stabilization and state-building, even if significant challenges remain. We also welcome enhanced cooperation against terrorism and Syria’s participation in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS.

Finland supports a peaceful and inclusive political transition based on international law and human rights. Accountability remains essential for lasting peace, and we will continue to support the IIIM, and encourage cooperation between Syrian authorities and UN mechanisms.

I thank you.