Thank you, Madam President,

Israel remains deeply concerned about the deteriorating human rights situation in Afghanistan. We are extremely concerned about reports of violent crackdowns against the civilian population and human rights defenders. Freedom of assembly and expression must be ensured.

We also urge those in power and authority to guarantee and safeguard the rights of women and girls. We believe that women must play an equal part in all discussions about the future of Afghanistan in line with Resolution 1325 of the UN Security Council and subsequent resolutions.

Over the previous months, Israel has also been alarmed by reports of targeted killing of women’s rights defenders and utterly condemn any violence against women and girls. Women and girls should not be scared to walk the streets, they should not be intimidated when they go to school, and they should not be subjected to violence for what they wear.

Madam President,

The women of Afghanistan must be listened to. They must be heard.

I thank you.