Protection of Water Infrastructure in Armed Conflicts: Algeria Calls for Unity Among Security Council Members

New York (United Nations) – Algeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Mr Amar Bendjama , has called on Security Council members to “unify” their voices in solidarity with the millions deprived of water. He highlighted the “tragic consequences” of targeting water infrastructure during armed conflicts, particularly in Gaza and Sudan.

During an informal Security Council meeting held yesterday, titled “Attacks on Freshwater Resources and Related Infrastructure: Protecting Civilian Lives,” Mr. Bendjama stated, “We must unite our voices in solidarity with the millions deprived of this essential resource due to conflicts. This issue extends beyond preserving health and human dignity; it also encompasses the protection of human life.”

He emphasized the clear and “deeply concerning” connection between attacks on water and sanitation services and violations of fundamental human rights, especially the right to life and health. He added, “Targeting water infrastructure leads to mass displacement of populations, as we are tragically witnessing in Palestine, particularly in Gaza, as well as in Sudan.”

In this context, Algeria’s Permanent Representative urged Security Council members to advocate for the establishment of an “early warning mechanism” to monitor violations related to water networks, including attacks on water infrastructure and threats to water quality in conflict zones. He also stressed the necessity of mobilizing essential resources, including financial support, to quickly restore water supply and sanitation services in conflict-affected areas.

Mr. Bendjama reaffirmed the need to hold accountable those responsible for these violations, suggesting the inclusion of attacks on freshwater and sanitation infrastructure within relevant sanctions regimes.

Furthermore, he called for the activation of “all available tools” within the Security Council to strengthen protections concerning freshwater resources and the civilian infrastructure associated with them, particularly in conflict situations. Algeria, alongside Slovenia, Panama, and Sierra Leone, convened this informal meeting.

It is noteworthy that during the annual open debate of the Security Council on the protection of civilians in armed conflicts on Thursday, the Algerian representative urged immediate action from the Security Council against serious violations of humanitarian law in the Gaza Strip, asserting that “the absence of civilian protection is not due to a lack of laws, but rather a lack of will.”