UK Commits to Countering Terrorism in All Forms at UN Security Council Meeting

Twenty-five years ago, an unimaginable tragedy unfolded as nearly 3,000 individuals from over 90 nations lost their lives during the horrific terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Today, we join the people of the United States and communities around the globe in commemorating the victims, their families, and the survivors who continue to endure the repercussions of that day.

However, remembrance alone is insufficient. It is our responsibility to take every possible measure to prevent such atrocities from recurring. Today, we also pay tribute to those dedicated to the fight against terrorism worldwide, including our armed forces, law enforcement personnel, first responders, humanitarian workers, and United Nations peacekeepers.

Unity Against Terrorism

The September 11 attacks aimed to instil fear and division among us. In contrast, they galvanised the international community, fostering a collective resolve to combat such heinous acts of terrorism. In the wake of these attacks, this Council acted with remarkable unity and determination, exemplified by Resolution 1373, which established enduring obligations and institutions central to our collective security.

Over the past quarter-century, this Council has constructed a robust framework to thwart terrorist travel, hinder terrorist financing, and enhance international collaboration. Globally, intelligence-sharing has intensified, leading to the curtailment of terrorist funding, transformative improvements in border and aviation security, and the degradation of terrorist organisations. Numerous attacks have been successfully prevented as a result.

In the United Kingdom, our intelligence agencies and law enforcement have thwarted numerous terrorist plots. Through our Prevent programme, we have assisted thousands of vulnerable individuals in diverting away from pathways leading to terrorism and violent extremism. On the international stage, we remain committed to collaborating with partners to bolster security and resilience in regions where terrorist groups exploit instability.

Addressing Ongoing Challenges

In Iraq, the United Kingdom has trained over 120,000 security personnel and provided more than $670 million in humanitarian and stabilisation assistance to communities affected by Da’esh. Meanwhile, in West Africa and the Sahel, terrorist groups continue to drive displacement, worsen humanitarian crises, and destabilise the region. The UK is working alongside regional partners to deliver targeted support in intelligence sharing, investigations, and counter-terrorism financing.

These accomplishments illustrate a fundamental truth: international cooperation is effective. Yet, the threat landscape remains dynamic. Groups such as Da’esh and Al-Qaida, along with their affiliates, are adept at exploiting conflict, instability, and weak governance. They are continuously adapting their tactics and leveraging new technologies to disseminate propaganda, recruit members, raise funds, and expand their operational capabilities.

Strengthening Global Cooperation

We must remain committed to consistently implementing our existing obligations, including those outlined in Resolution 2462 concerning terrorist financing. Strengthening cooperation among governments, the United Nations, civil society, and both the technology and financial sectors is imperative. While technologies like artificial intelligence pose certain risks, they also offer valuable tools for detecting terrorist content, identifying financial networks, and safeguarding vulnerable communities.

It is essential to leverage the Security Council’s sanctions regimes effectively to restrict terrorist travel, disrupt funding, and deny terrorist organisations the resources they require to function. Furthermore, our response must be both effective and principled. Counter-terrorism initiatives must adhere to international law, including human rights law, as measures that compromise rights or civic space can inadvertently foster the very grievances terrorists seek to exploit.

Commitment to a Collective Response

The lessons learned over the past twenty-five years are unequivocal: terrorism transcends borders, necessitating a collective response. Our approach must integrate effective security measures with prevention, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to the rule of law. The United Kingdom remains steadfast in its determination to work through this Council and with global partners to combat terrorism in all its forms. This is how we honour the memory of all victims of terrorism across every region and reaffirm our shared commitment to safeguarding future generations from this enduring threat.