Statement by
Ambassador Warren W. Tichenor

OCHA Information Meeting on the Situation in Lebanon

August 11, 2006

Good morning, Madam Chairperson, ladies and gentlemen.  Thank you very much, Under-Secretary General Egeland, for your briefing and for your commitment to ensuring the humanitarian aspects of the conflict in Lebanon and Israel receive high level attention. 

We all agree that the people of Lebanon and Israel have known too much conflict.  There has been tremendous cost – human cost in Lebanon – and human cost in Israel.  The tragic humanitarian situation in both countries right now reflects deep rooted problems that the United States is committed to trying to address through diplomacy with other nations in New York and the region. 

At the same time, we are supporting our international organization and NGO partners to respond to humanitarian needs now.  The U.S. pledged $30 million towards the crisis and have already committed more than $22 million, including $10 million towards the UN Flash Appeal.  As we work with our partners to ascertain additional needs, we will work to respond quickly and generously.  Additionally, we have worked to facilitate the convoy notification system and use of a consolidated map with consistent geo-coordinates.  And U.S. military assets have delivered assistance and escorted supply ships.

I would note that coordination within the UN system appears to have improved since Humanitarian Coordinator David Shearer arrived in Lebanon.  We understand the difficult humanitarian environment there and pay tribute to and thank those dedicated Lebanese and international staff members working to protect and assist victims.

While we all expect this meeting to focus on humanitarian issues, it is clear that the conflict in Lebanon and Israel

has also attracted much political attention.  It is worth noting that actions or statements that undermine the fundamental value of humanitarian impartiality can put at risk the ability of UN or other humanitarian organizations to respond to victims in times of urgent need.

In particular, humanitarian organizations need be careful about making judgments on violations and potential  violations of IHL.  Some violations are clearly evident, such as using civilians as human shields, perfidy on the battlefield, and intentional targeting of civilians.   Other IHL concepts, like that of proportionality, require, among other things, an understanding of a party’s military objectives, the military advantage being sought, and the limitations on the available means of attack, not all of which are available at present. 

In closing, please permit me to say that:  responding to armed conflict can be more complicated though just as important as responding to natural disasters.  We must guard against those who would seek to use the shield of the humanitarian movement in search of political advantage.  If we are true to our values, we will maintain and sharpen our focus on those who need our help and ensure our efforts are both complementary and mutually reinforcing.

I thank you, Madam Chairperson.