What Israel did today in southern Lebanon constitutes a crime, not only under international humanitarian law, which criminalizes targeting civilians, terrorizing them, and forcing them to flee their homes, but also a blatant political crime.

The more Lebanon expresses openness to a peaceful negotiation approach to resolve outstanding issues with Israel, the more it intensifies its aggression against Lebanese sovereignty, flaunts its disregard for Resolution 1701, and continues violating its obligations.

Nearly a year has passed since the ceasefire came into effect, and during this period, Israel has spared no effort in showing its rejection of any negotiated settlement between the two countries… Message received!

With the adoption of this text, the Council is sending a strong political signal that recognizes Syria is in a new era since Assad and his associates were toppled in December 2024.

There is a new Syrian government in place, led by President Ahmed al-Sharra, that is working hard to fulfill its commitments on countering terrorism and narcotics, on eliminating any remnants of chemical weapons, and on promoting regional security and stability, as well as an inclusive Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process.

As President Trump previously indicated, now is Syria's chance at greatness.

The delisting of President al-Sharaa and Interior Minister Khattab should help give the Syrian people the greatest chance.