The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to global counter-terrorism efforts during a landmark meeting of the United Nations Security Council in New York, marking 25 years since the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001.
Chris Elmore MP, Minister for the Americas, Multilateral, and Human Rights, delivered the UK’s statement on 11 September 2026 during the Security Council’s 10221st meeting. The session, convened by France in its capacity as the Council’s president for the month, served as both a memorial to the victims of 2001 and a strategy session for modern security challenges.
The meeting highlighted how the landscape of international terrorism has shifted over the last quarter-century. While the core mission remains the same, the UK and its international partners are now prioritising the regulation and monitoring of new technologies used by extremist groups.
Evolving technological threats
The Security Council discussed the growing sophistication of terrorist tactics, specifically the use of artificial intelligence (AI), drones, and encrypted communication platforms. These tools are increasingly being utilised for recruitment, propaganda, and the planning of attacks.
The UK delegation emphasised that as technology evolves, so must the international legal framework. Resolution 1373, which was adopted in the immediate aftermath of the 2001 attacks, remains the cornerstone of the UK’s multilateral approach. However, the Council was expected to work towards its first presidential statement on terrorism in five years to address these contemporary digital threats.
According to the UK Government, domestic intelligence agencies and law enforcement have disrupted dozens of terrorist plots within the UK in recent years. The statement also highlighted the role of the “Prevent” programme, which is designed to support vulnerable individuals and steer them away from extremism before they become involved in criminal activity.
The role of the Security Council
As a permanent member of the Security Council, the UK continues to lead on global sanctions and the development of security frameworks. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) coordinates these diplomatic efforts, ensuring that international sanctions are effectively applied to disrupt the financing of terrorist organisations.
The UN Security Council presidency rotates monthly among its members, with the September 2026 session under French leadership focusing heavily on the legacy of 9/11 and the future of collective security. The UK delegation stated it would continue to work through the Council to combat terrorism in all its forms, maintaining that international cooperation is the only viable path to long-term stability.
