Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on UNDOF and UNIFIL.
After over a year of conflict and suffering across the Middle East, we now stand at a moment of hope for the people of the region.
With the Syrian people free from Assad's tyranny, political progress in Lebanon, and news that a ceasefire and hostage release deal have been finalised for Gaza.
The UK will continue to work tirelessly to ensure we seize this opportunity and deliver much-needed peace.
The past year has seen continuous and devasting violence across the Blue Line.
We strongly believe that a ceasefire and lasting political solution are the only viable route to peace, stability and security for the Lebanese and Israeli people.
As we approach the end of the 60-day ceasefire period, every effort must be made to continue the progress and avoid a return to conflict.
Violations of the agreement will only bring us back to the brink, and we call on parties to uphold the commitments they agreed to.
Against this backdrop, the UK commends UNIFIL for maintaining its visibility and operational activities in difficult circumstances.
The UK will continue to support UNIFIL's essential role in maintaining calm along the Blue Line and enabling the enhanced Lebanese Armed Forces deployment to southern Lebanon, consistent with the ceasefire agreement and UNSCR 1701.
We have consistently condemned attacks on UN Peacekeepers.
They must never be targeted.
All parties have an obligation under international law to ensure the safety and security of UN peacekeeping personnel and premises.
Turning to UNDOF, the UN Disengagement of Forces Agreement remains vital for stability at this pivotal moment for Syria and the wider region.
Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected.
This is more important than ever as Syria embarks on a political transition in pursuit of a more secure and peaceful future.
The UK is clear that we expect Israel to adhere to their commitment that their presence in the Area of Separation is both limited and temporary.
We call on Israel to lay out timelines for their withdrawal from the Area of Separation.
Let me, once again, reiterate the UK's long-standing position that the Golan Heights are occupied territory, and we do not recognise Israel's annexation.
Finally, after months of despair, news of the agreement between Israel and Hamas offers much-needed hope.
The hostages and their families have endured unimaginable agony and the level of suffering in Gaza defies belief.
This deal is the basis for progress.
To bring the hostages home.
Bring relief, reconstruction and hope to long-suffering civilians.
And to achieve a long-awaited two-state solution with Palestinians and Israelis living in peace and security.
