UN press briefing covers multiple hotspots: Gaza, Lebanon-Israel talks, Ukraine and ICC comment

At a Tuesday press briefing, the United Nations spokesperson fielded questions on a variety of international developments, reiterating previously stated positions and clarifying the UN’s level of engagement in several forums.

On a reported attack on a train in Balochistan and hostage-taking, the spokesperson said the UN had seen initial reports and “condemn[ed] any hostage taking,” calling for immediate release and saying the UN would follow the situation as it evolves.

Asked whether the UN would be part of joint Israeli-Lebanese working groups announced by the Israeli prime minister, the spokesperson said the UN hosted meetings at its facilities in Naqoura (the UN base in southern Lebanon) and that any effort to stabilise the area and resume normal life would be welcome; further details would be provided when available.

When asked whether the UN had a representative at ongoing Saudi talks referenced by a participant, the spokesperson said the UN was following events through media and other channels but did not have a representative at those talks.

On Ukraine, the spokesperson strongly condemned attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure wherever they occur, citing recent reported attacks in Ukraine and Moscow and reiterating calls for de-escalation and respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

On a question about the International Criminal Court, the spokesperson noted that the ICC is a separate institution and the UN will not comment on specific judicial actions, while expressing respect for the court’s independence.

Throughout the questioning, the spokesperson emphasized the limits of the UN’s capacity to comment on or participate in some fora while reiterating calls for humanitarian access, protection of civilians and adherence to international law where relevant.