Veto initiative debate on the Middle East
Statement delivered by Ms. Katri Lõhmus, Deputy Permanent Representative of Estonia
New York, 16 April 2026
Mister president,
Estonia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union and would like to add the following in its national capacity.
Estonia has been a staunch supporter of the veto initiative since its inception and we welcome the convening of today’s debate. We regret that the Security Council was not able to fulfil its Charter-mandated role due to the veto of two permanent members and therefore failed to adopt the resolution on the important issue of safeguarding international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. We thank Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Jordan for their intensive efforts and call upon the Security Council to act to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
Estonia has expressed its solidarity with the Gulf states and Jordan in the face of Iran’s unjustified and unprovoked attacks, which we strongly condemn. We were proud to co-sponsor Security Council resolution 2817 and call for its full implementation, including to cease attacks affecting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Blocking the Strait of Hormuz has a major impact on the global economy. Free and safe navigation must be ensured, in line with international law. We support all steps to ensure maritime safety and freedom of navigation and are discussing ways to contribute to these efforts together with Allies.
It is in the interests of the whole global community that hostilities in the Middle East come to an end. Estonia welcomes the ceasefire agreed by the United States and Iran, and commends the role of mediators Pakistan, as well as Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Türkiye. We urge for de-escalation and continued dialogue, in order to achieve lasting peace in the region. We also emphasise the importance of respecting international law and the principles of the UN Charter.
President,
We urge all parties in the region to respect the ceasefire, including in Lebanon. The civilian harm caused by recent hostilities is unacceptable – all attacks against civilians must cease and international law must be respected. As a troop contributing country to UNIFIL, Estonia has strongly condemned the attacks against peacekeepers and called for accountability. Lebanon’s sovereignty must be upheld, and Hezbollah must disarm in line with its commitments. We support the historic and courageous decisions taken by the Lebanese Government in this regard. We welcome today’s announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon and hope that it can pave the way towards long-awaited lasting peace.
Thank you!