Geneva, September 16 (QNA) – In a strong display of solidarity, 78 countries delivered a joint statement at the UN Human Rights Council (HRC60) in Geneva, condemning Israel’s September 9 military assault on Doha and affirming full support for Qatar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The statement, read by South Africa’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi, during the Council’s urgent debate, described the attack as a blatant use of force against a peaceful state committed to mediation and diplomacy. It warned that targeting a neutral mediator sets a dangerous precedent, threatens international peace and security, and undermines global efforts for conflict resolution and human rights.
The declaration reaffirmed the countries’ shared commitment to the rule of law, human dignity, peace, equality, and respect for international law. It aligned with earlier condemnations issued by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk, and other international actors rejecting the strikes.
The signatories condemned all forms of aggression, coercion, and threats against neutral or mediating states, emphasizing that such acts violate the UN Charter and international law, including the principles of sovereignty, non-intervention, and peaceful dispute resolution. They underlined the vital role of mediation in fostering dialogue, preventing escalation, and building sustainable peace.
The joint statement praised Qatar’s longstanding commitment to mediation and peaceful conflict resolution, noting its contributions to international peacebuilding efforts. It further urged the Human Rights Council, the UN Secretary-General, and the High Commissioner for Human Rights to monitor and report on attacks against mediating states, develop stronger protections for them under international law, and reinforce global support for mediation as a cornerstone of peace, security, and human rights protection.
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