Algeria’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amar Bendjama, expressed deep concern on Thursday over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and announced that the UN Security Council would hold an emergency session on Friday to address Israel’s attacks on healthcare facilities in the region. The session aims to shed light on the mounting toll on civilians as the situation continues to deteriorate.
In a press briefing following Algeria’s assumption of the presidency of the Security Council for the month of January, Bendjama reiterated the country’s unwavering focus on Palestine and Gaza, emphasizing that the suffering of the Palestinian people and the catastrophic conditions in Gaza remain top priorities for Algeria. “We will continue to spotlight the immense suffering of Palestine, with Gaza facing an unparalleled humanitarian crisis,” said Bendjama. “This issue remains one of Algeria’s most pressing priorities.”
Bendjama also highlighted Algeria’s broader regional concerns, with a strong focus on other Arab countries in crisis, including Lebanon, Syria, Sudan, and Yemen. As a member of the Arab bloc within the Security Council, Algeria has been vocal in calling for comprehensive solutions to the ongoing conflicts in the region. “The situations in Lebanon, Syria, Sudan, and Yemen are critical, and Algeria remains deeply concerned about the continued instability in these nations,” he affirmed.
A key aspect of Algeria’s diplomatic efforts has been the continued support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). Bendjama stressed that UNRWA’s mission is indispensable to the Palestinian population, and Algeria will push for the agency’s continued operation under its mandate. “UNRWA is essential and cannot be replaced. We will strive to ensure that it continues its important work on behalf of the Palestinian people,” he stated, noting that the agency’s services are vital to millions of refugees.
Looking forward, Bendjama also announced that a high-level meeting focusing on the Palestinian issue would be convened at the UN Security Council on January 20, with Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf presiding over the session. The meeting will aim to push for greater international support and engagement in resolving the ongoing conflict in Palestine.
Addressing the situation in Syria, Bendjama noted that the implementation of Security Council Resolution 2254, which encourages a ceasefire and a political settlement, remains crucial, even as the resolution continues to be considered outdated. “While the resolution may be seen as outdated, its fundamental principles offer a solid foundation for a sustainable peace and a better future for Syria,” he said, reiterating Algeria’s position that Syria’s transition should be Syrian-led, without external interference or preconditions.
Regarding the potential removal of Syria’s Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) from the UN terror list, Bendjama stated that it would ultimately be up to the Security Council to decide. He confirmed that a meeting to discuss Syria’s situation would take place on January 8, focusing on ways to help rebuild the country’s infrastructure, governance, and institutions.
At the end of the month, the presidency of the UN Security Council will pass to China, marking a transition in leadership for the Council’s activities during February.
Algeria’s proactive role in addressing regional conflicts, particularly in Palestine and Syria, highlights the nation’s commitment to playing a key role in shaping international diplomacy and contributing to solutions for ongoing humanitarian crises in the Arab world.