New York – The members of the Security Council condemn in the strongest terms yesterday’s attack on a hotel in Bula Burde, Somalia, for which Al Shabaab has claimed responsibility and has caused numerous deaths and injuries. The members of the Security Council expressed their condolences to the families of the victims, which included members of the Somalia National Army, AMISOM, and civilians. The members of the Security Council also wished a swift recovery to those injured. The members of the Security Council extended their sympathies to the Governments of the Federal Republic of Somalia and the Republic of Djibouti.

The members of the Security Council paid tribute to the Somalia National Army and AMISOM for the efforts and sacrifices they are making in the fight for a stable and peaceful Somalia.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, and that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable regardless of their motivation, wherever and whenever and by whomsoever committed

The members of the Security Council reiterated their determination to combat all forms of terrorism, in accordance with its responsibilities under the Charter of the United Nations.

The members of the Security Council underlined the need to bring perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism to justice, and urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with the Somali authorities in this regard

The members of the Security Council reminded States that they must ensure that measures taken to combat terrorism comply with all their obligations under international law, in particular international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law.

The members of the Security Council strongly reaffirmed their commitment to work with the Federal Government of Somalia, AMISOM, UNSOM and all international partners to support the people and Federal Government of Somalia on the path to peace and security.