YouSaid · the spoken record

Feltman

lines on the record

838

first

2012-08-22

most recent

2018-02-28

sittings or episodes

59

sources

un-security-council

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

1. “Mr. Feltman: When we last met to discuss Ukraine on 16 April (see S/PV.7157), there was a glimmer of hope within the Council for the first time in weeks as we waited for the outcome of the four-party talks that were to be held in Geneva the following day, aimed at de-escalating the crisis. Today, we regret that the emerging spirit of compromise of 17 April appears to have evaporated. The implementation of the Geneva statement has stalled as parties have sought to give different interpretations of what had been agreed upon. Unhelpful rhetoric on the part of many has further escalated the already high tensions. Meanwhile, the situation in parts of eastern and southern Ukraine continues to deteriorate.”

   2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7165 (2014) · source

2. “The Secretary-General remains convinced that a solution of the Palestinian-Israeli issue, in the form of a negotiated two-State solution, is the best contribution to regional stability that we can make at this time.”

   2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

3. “The United Nations is engaging with the newly formed Government to help coordinate the urgent humanitarian needs of refugees and to consolidate support for the Government's national response through its road map for stabilization. In conclusion, last week, with the situation in Gaza, we came very close to the brink of another crisis in an already volatile region. We should take that as yet another reminder of the need to work together to restore prospects for a durable regional peace. The Middle East still faces an unpredictable future with multiple sources of uncertainty. What is certain, however, is that the Arab-Israeli conflict cannot be ignored in shaping the future constructively.”

   2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

4. “It also reviewed the progress made on the Group's support agenda for refugees, the Government and the Lebanese Armed Forces and called for greater international assistance going forward. Additional contributions were made to the joint United Nations-World Bank multi-donor trust fund for Lebanon. The Government of Italy announced its intention to host a senior officials' meeting in Rome on 10 April in preparation for a higher level conference in support of the Lebanese Armed Forces. The recent escalation in security incidents along Lebanon's eastern border with Syria is affecting humanitarian access. As the conflict in Syria enters its fourth year, Lebanon struggles with the impact, including the presence of a refugee population from Syria of nearly 1 million people, who are in need of protection and assistance.”

   2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

5. “The Israel Defense Forces reportedly fired a number of artillery rounds across the Blue Line in retaliation for the attack. An investigation by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon is under way. We urge all parties to fully respect the Blue Line and to refrain from any action that would constitute a violation of the relevant resolutions. On 5 March, the Government of France hosted a ministerial meeting of the International Support Group for Lebanon in Paris, which was attended by President Sleiman and President Hollande. The meeting reaffirmed the international community's commitment to Lebanon's stability and security, including support for its State institutions and policy of disassociation.”

   2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

6. “Rocket fire into the Bekaa region and Syrian airforce strikes have continued, causing a number of deaths, injuries and material damage in Lebanese towns and villages, including Arsal, Labwe and Brittal. We are very concerned about the impact on Lebanon of the fighting on the Syrian side of the border and remind the Syrian authorities of the need for full respect of Lebanon's sovereignty. In a letter dated 27 February (S/2014/l34), the Lebanese authorities said that on 24 February, an Israeli military aircraft had violated Lebanese airspace, raiding the outskirts of Janta town and firing several missiles within Lebanese territory, in violation of resolution 1701 (2006). On 14 March, there were reports of a roadside bomb ambush against Israeli soldiers in the Shaba'a farms area.”

   2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

7. “It remains important that all parties in Lebanon continue to work together in the same spirit in which the new Government was formed in order to tackle the very significant security and humanitarian challenges that the country faces. On 22 February, a Jabhat A+l-Nusra suicide bomber detonated a car bomb at a Lebanese Armed Forces checkpoint in the Bekaa town of Hermel, killing three people, including two soldiers. On 16 March, another suicide bomber detonated a car bomb in the town of Nabi Othman, in the eastern area of Baalbek, killing 4 and injuring at least 10. Clashes in Tripoli between the predominantly Alawite area of Jabel Mohsen and the Sunni neighbourhood of Bab Al-Tabbaneh broke out once again on 13 March, leading to 12 deaths and tens of injuries.”

   2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

8. “The upcoming report of the Secretary-General and subsequent briefing to the Council by the Department of Peacekeeping Operations will provide details of the situation on the Golan. In Lebanon, the Government formed on 15 February submitted its ministerial policy statement to Parliament and is awaiting a vote of confidence, due on 20 March. I am encouraged by the Government's focus on matters such as respect for United Nations resolutions, including resolution 1701 (2006); follow- up on the work of the International Support Group for Lebanon; support for decisions taken under Lebanon's national dialogue; and recognition of the importance of securing Lebanon's borders, improving security and preparing for the presidential election process, which is due to start on 25 March and to take place by 25 May.”

   2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

9. “The situation on the Golan remains volatile, with heavy clashes between the Syrian armed forces and members of the armed opposition. Shelling continued primarily in the southern part of the area of separation and in the area of limitation adjacent to it. In a recent development, on 5 March, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) fired 17 tank rounds towards the village of New Hamadiyah in the northern part of the area of separation. The IDF informed the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force that it had taken the action in response to persons placing an unknown object at the technical fence, west of the ceasefire line. I also note that there are news reports reaching the Council of additional clashes that reportedly injured three Israeli soldiers near Majdal Shams.”

   2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

10. “We fully recognize the complex security dimension of the situation in Gaza. However, the price should not be paid by the people of Gaza. In the context of deteriorating humanitarian and development conditions, the United Nations finds it increasingly difficult to provide assistance to the population of Gaza while restrictions on access, including for United Nations operations, persist and have even increased. We would like to call the attention of the Council to that unsustainable situation in the Gaza Strip and appeal to all parties concerned to contribute to alleviating the deteriorating conditions of the civilian population. The Council was extensively briefed on Syria last week by Joint Special Representative Brahimi. The Secretary-General and Mr. Brahimi also briefed the General Assembly, so I will not repeat their clear messages.”

    2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

11. “Recurrent drug and medical equipment shortages are affecting the Gaza medical system, further increasing the number of patients seeking referral outside for medical conditions that could have been treated inside Gaza, were supplies available. Approximately $250,000 per month would be required to cover the cost of those critical medical supplies. The United Nations is seeking donors' assistance to establish an emergency medical safety net while urging the Palestinian Authority and the de facto authorities in Gaza to develop a structural solution to the problem. Meanwhile, work on previously commenced United Nations projects has not resumed as originally agreed to with the Israeli authorities, and about 15 projects, worth $14 million, remain stalled. Another 42 projects, valued at around $96 million, are still awaiting Israeli approval.”

    2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

12. “Compounding an already dire electricity situation, the near shutdown of Gaza's only power plant was averted by another last- minute Qatari contribution of $32 million to procure industrial fuel for the plant. The Qatari contribution is expected to enable the Gaza power plant to continue generating some 55 megawatts daily for an additional 3 months. The current situation highlights the need to advance a sustainable structural solution to Gaza's energy problems. Gaza's unemployment rate is 38.5 per cent. Extremely limited movement in and out of Gaza from the Erez and Rafah crossings continues to afflict the civilian population, including patients awaiting medical treatment.”

    2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

13. “He also deplores the loss of civilian life under any circumstances. On 5 March, Israeli naval forces intercepted a ship in the Red Sea allegedly transporting arms from Iran to the Gaza Strip. The cargo reportedly included 40 M-302 rockets with a range of up to 160 kilometres and 181 mortar shells and approximately 400,000 7.62-calibre rounds. We condemn all illegal weapons smuggling and call for the full implementation of resolutions 1850 (2008) and 1860 (2009). If the allegations of arms shipments from Iran are true, that also appears to be a violation of resolution 1747 (2007). At the same time, the economic and humanitarian situation continued to worsen in the context of a tightened access regime and violence, both severely affecting the lives of the population in Gaza.”

    2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

14. “As mentioned earlier, a dangerous escalation of violence took place between 11 and 13 March. More than 70 rockets and 5 mortar shells were indiscriminately fired towards Israel, the majority of which were claimed by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Over 50 landed in Israel, fortunately without resulting in injuries. Israel conducted 15 airstrikes on Gaza in March, resulting in the death of 5 militants reportedly affiliated with the Palestinian Islamic Jihad and injuries to 5 Palestinian civilians. A 57-year-old Palestinian woman was shot dead by Israeli forces on 28 February during a protest in the vicinity of the border fence, and another two Palestinian civilians were injured in similar circumstances. The Secretary-General strongly condemned the firing of multiple rockets into Israel and called on all actors to exercise maximum restraint.”

    2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

15. “Provocative acts from any quarter must cease, and the sanctity of holy sites of all faiths must be fully respected. The Secretary-General underscores that incitement, whatever its source, poisons the atmosphere for peace. He calls upon Israeli and Palestinian leaders to exercise their responsibilities in halting incitement. We remain concerned about the health of eight Palestinian prisoners on ongoing hunger strike protesting their administrative detention, five of whom are currently in Israeli hospitals. Administrative detainees should be either charged or released. We have also seen reports that additional Palestinian prisoners and detainees, who had previously announced the start of a hunger strike to begin today, have called off that strike. Turning to Gaza, the underpinnings of the ceasefire understanding continued to be undermined.”

    2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

16. “We are concerned that, in late February, the Israeli authorities issued stop-work orders against 18 residential and livelihood-related structures in the Bedouin community of Jabal Al-Baba, which was funded by international donors to support the vulnerable community. Over 85 per cent of the residents in that area are refugees. We reiterate the importance of Palestinian access to a fair planning and zoning system. Tensions continued to increase with respect to the Temple Mount/Haram Al-Sharif. A debate on whether to extend Israeli sovereignty over the Temple Mount/ Haram Al-Sharif on 25 February in the Israeli Knesset plenary, which concluded without action, was followed by clashes on the ground and by strong Palestinian and Jordanian opposition. We call on all parties to show the utmost restraint regarding the holy compound.”

    2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

17. “On 26 February, Palestinian stone- and Molotov-cocktail- throwing attacks resulted in injuries to three settlers near Nablus and material damage to vehicles, including to the vehicle of an Israeli Knesset member near Nablus on 9 March. The Israel Central Bureau of Statistics stated on 3 March that construction in the settlements more than doubled in 2013 as compared to 2012. We are also concerned about any movement towards approval of settlement projects in East Jerusalem. Continued settlement activity in the occupied Palestinian territory is contrary to international law and an obstacle to peace. Demolitions continued on a smaller scale as compared to the previous reporting period. Eight structures, including five residences, were demolished in East Jerusalem, displacing 23 people, including 12 children.”

    2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

18. “In five instances, Palestinian security forces defused unexploded ordnance in different parts of the West Bank between 3 and 6 March. On 5 March, they reportedly took into custody and handed over to Israeli security forces an Israeli settler detained by Palestinian farmers while uprooting olive trees near Nablus. Settler attacks resulted in eight Palestinians injured, including two children. On 2 March, a settler vehicle reportedly fatally struck a 66-year-old Palestinian near Ramallah. Settler attacks also resulted in damage to Palestinian property. Approximately 390 trees and saplings were reportedly vandalized, including about 180 olive trees uprooted near Qalqiliya on 2 March.”

    2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

19. “Subsequent to Prime Minister Netanyahu's expression of regret to King Abdullah of Jordan last week, Israeli President Shimon Peres offered his deepest condolences and regret to Jordan on behalf of Israel over last week's shooting at the Allenby crossing. We continue to urge investigations into all such incidents and note that agreement has been reached to establish a joint Israeli-Jordanian investigation into the Allenby Bridge shooting. A total of 325 Palestinians were arrested, including an alleged Izz el-Deen al-Qassam Brigades leader in Hebron on 4 March, and 128 Palestinians were injured. An Israeli soldier was also injured. Clashes also continued in and around refugee camps, in particular in Al-Jalazun camp near Ramallah, and during demonstrations against the barrier.”

    2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

20. “Unemployment reached 23.4 per cent last year - the highest level since 2010. In February, the Palestinian Cabinet approved a $4.2 billion budget for 2014, reflecting a 9 per cent increase from 2013. The 2014 budget presents a current deficit of $1.3 billion and development financing needs of $333 million. Worrying trends continued in the West Bank. Israeli security forces carried out 292 search-and- arrest operations. Three Palestinians were shot dead by Israeli forces: a Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine activist killed on 27 February in Birzeit, near Ramallah; a civilian Jordanian citizen killed at the Allenby crossing to Jordan on 10 March; and a Palestinian civilian killed that same day near the illegal settlement outpost of Givat Assaf near Ramallah.”

    2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

21. “We have stressed before the importance of tangible steps to improve socioeconomic conditions on the ground, which must go hand in hand with and reinforce the political process. The urgent need for progress in that regard was acknowledged at a conference in Prague on 8 to 9 March. Jointly organized by the Quartet representative and the United States Secretary of State, the conference brought together approximately 100 international business people, Palestinian Authority officials and key figures in the Palestinian private sector. Early estimates suggest that economic activity weakened in 2013 in both the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. The International Monetary Fund projects only a 2.5 per cent increase in real gross domestic product in 2014, well below the growth needed to absorb new job seekers.”

    2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

22. “On 3 and 17 March, the United States President met individually with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Palestinian President Abbas in Washington, DC; Secretary Kerry met with President Abbas in that city on 16 March and with the King of Jordan in the first week of March. In late February and earlier this month, Chancellor Merkel and Prime Minister Cameron made visits to Israel and Palestine and impressed upon their interlocutors the importance of progress on the peace track. Meeting in Cairo on 9 March, the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of the League of Arab States reinforced their position that all final status issues be addressed in line with principles outlined in the relevant Security Council resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative. Quartet envoys also continued their internal consultations and met separately with the parties.”

    2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

23. “Mr. Feltman: We meet today against the backdrop of last week's dangerous escalation in Gaza and Israel that concluded with a fragile calm. That latest upsurge serves to underscore the fact that the status quo is not sustainable. Eight months since the resumption of talks between Israelis and Palestinians, United States-led efforts to present a basis for continued negotiations are ongoing. We are yet again approaching some decisive timelines. Leaders on both sides are confronted with difficult decisions. Public support for peace among Israelis and among Palestinians - Palestinians both in the West Bank and in Gaza - will be tested. The international community's commitment to engage in those efforts on the basis of existing principles has remained steadfast.”

    2014-03-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7140 (2014) · source

24. “The Secretary-General, under the auspices of his good offices, is the Council's partner in supporting and facilitating a peaceful resolution through dialogue. We are convinced that with genuine and concerted efforts by the international community, we can together pull Ukraine back from the brink.”

    2014-03-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7134 (2014) · source

25. “He also continues to remind all parties that democratic values and international human rights norms must be upheld for all the people of Ukraine, including minorities. As part of the United Nations efforts, we also continue to closely coordinate our activities with key players and relevant regional organizations, including the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. In the highly charged atmosphere in Ukraine, exacerbated by a lack of trust and fear, the potential for intentional or unintentional escalation or miscalculations is real. We underscore that all sides must avoid unilateral actions that could further raise tensions and make de-escalation more difficult. It is high time for constructive engagement. Instability in Ukraine is in no one's interests and will have dire consequences for the region and the world.”

    2014-03-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7134 (2014) · source

26. “The human rights monitoring mission of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights is set to become operational in Ukraine by this coming Monday. In the light of the unpredictable situation, which could affect human rights, the Secretary-General is considering asking Assistant Secretary-General Simonovie to extend his mission. Since the beginning of the crisis, the Secretary- General has called for a peaceful resolution that respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. The Secretary-General continues to advocate for a resolution of the crisis in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations. He appeals to all parties to avoid hasty actions or provocative rhetoric and to engage in direct and constructive dialogue in order to forge a peaceful way forward.”

    2014-03-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7134 (2014) · source

27. “Given the vast divergences in reports about what is actually happening on the ground in Crimea, we would have much preferred that Assistant Secretary-General Simonovie had been able to collect first-hand accounts himself. Assistant Secretary-General Simonovic' has so far held meetings in Kyiv, Kharkiv and Lviv, including with representatives of local administrations, the Russian minority, non-governmental organizations, including a representative of the Crimean Tatars, and other civil society representatives, as well as with ombudspersons. During his mission, he has also continued to discuss options with the authorities for practical human rights measures that could be taken to strengthen human rights protection and contribute to de-escalation.”

    2014-03-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7134 (2014) · source

28. “Yatsenyuk later this afternoon. As I stated on Monday, the scheduled referendum has further complicated an already difficult and volatile situation. In that context, I regret to report to the Council that the local authorities have denied the Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, Mr. Ivan Simonovie, access to Crimea, citing their lack of readiness to receive his visit and an inability to provide security. Upon his departure from Ukraine, Assistant Secretary-General Simonovie intends to report on the human rights situation throughout the country. For Crimea, he will have to rely on, inter alia, reports from the residents of Crimea, foreign diplomats based in Crimea and international non-governmental organizations, with whom he has been in contact.”

    2014-03-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7134 (2014) · source

29. “On the same day, the Parliament of Ukraine, citing specific articles of the country's Constitution, adopted a resolution urging the Parliament of Crimea to "reconsider its decision of 6 March 2014 and bring it in line with the Constitution of Ukraine and the Constitution of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, approved by the Law of Ukraine of 23 December 1998". The resolution further stated that if the parliament of Crimea failed to do so by 12 March 2014, the Parliament of Ukraine would "initiate the issue of early termination of powers of the Verkhovna Rada of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea". Turning to United Nations activities, the Secretary- General continues his active efforts to speak with all relevant parties with the aim of seeking a peaceful resolution of the ongoing crisis. To that end, he will receive Mr.”

    2014-03-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7134 (2014) · source

30. “In Crimea, the seizure and blockade of Ukrainian military bases, as well as the majority of the State border service facilities, continue. There have been reports that a military hospital has been taken over by unidentified military personnel. On 11 March, it was reported that the Crimean authorities had closed down the airspace of the peninsula to all commercial flights except those to and from Moscow, citing the need to keep so-called provocateurs away from the peninsula. We understand that the referendum called by the authorities in Crimea is expected to go ahead on Sunday, 16 March. There are no indications to the contrary. On 11 March, Crimea's Parliament adopted a "declaration of independence of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea".”

    2014-03-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7134 (2014) · source

31. “The frequency of the deliberations, however, is also a reflection of the fact that, as the international community, we have not yet been able to deliver on our obligation - of which the Secretary-General has reminded us so often - to contribute to the de-escalation of tensions in accordance with the provisions of the Charter of the United Nations. Although it has so far proved elusive, the path towards a peaceful resolution of the crisis is still open. Let us seize it. I will first speak about the developments in Ukraine. Since my last briefing to the Council (see S/PV.7l3l), the Secretary-General's concern about the deteriorating situation in Crimea and rising tensions in eastern Ukraine has further deepened.”

    2014-03-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7134 (2014) · source

32. “Mr. Feltman: I will focus my briefing on two aspects: recent developments in Ukraine and the work of the United Nations. It is a reflection of the severity of this crisis and its possible wider ramifications that the Council is meeting to discuss Ukraine today for the second time this week and for the sixth time since 1 March. Serious attention has been accorded to this issue by the Council, in addition to multiple multilateral and bilateral diplomatic efforts, all aimed at seeking a peaceful resolution of the crisis.”

    2014-03-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7134 (2014) · source

33. “It is therefore in our collective interests, as well as that of both the Israelis and the Palestinians, to invest in the success of that process and ensure that it is credible and just for both parties.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

34. “It is the United Nations sincere desire to see 2014 as the year that bears witness to a comprehensive settlement realizing the vision of two States for two peoples: Israel and Palestine, living side-by-side in peace, security and mutual recognition of each other's legitimate rights, including self- determination, with each State ensuring equal civil rights for all its citizens. The Middle East region suffers from multiple crises and faultlines that require urgent attention, not least the conflict in Syria and its impact on neighbouring States. But the efforts deployed over the past seven months towards achieving a solution of the Palestinian-Israeli issue, in the form of a negotiated two-State solution, have come closer than at any point in recent time to making a real and much-needed contribution to regional stability.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

35. “The situation in the area of operations of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon and along the Blue Line remained calm, despite almost daily Israeli air violations of Lebanese airspace. Pursuant to the recommendations of the International Support Group for Lebanon, on 20 February the Lebanese Armed Forces and the United Nations launched a coordination mechanism for international assistance to the army. We welcome France's offer to host a meeting of the International Support Group in Paris on 5 March to support the political process in Lebanon and its State institutions. In conclusion, allow me to return to the Israeli- Palestinian peace talks.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

36. “The Lebanese Armed Forces have had a number of successes in capturing militants wanted in connection with the recent bombings in Beirut and Hermel, and acted to contain the movement of armed men and weapons between Lebanon and Syria. The Secretary-General congratulated President Sleiman and Prime Minister Salam following the formation, on 15 February, of the Government of national interest under Prime Minister Tamam Salam. The Secretary-General noted that the inclusion of most political parties in the Cabinet was important to address the serious security threats and humanitarian challenges facing the country, and in order to organize the presidential elections on time next month. Members of the new Cabinet are working on agreeing a ministerial statement outlining the Government's agenda.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

37. “On 21 January, a suicide bombing in the Haret Hraik suburb of Beirut was claimed by a Lebanese branch of J abhat Al-Nusra. On 1 February, another Jabhat Al-Nusra suicide bomber detonated a car bomb in Hermel. On 3 February, a suicide attack took place in Choueifat, in south Beirut. On 19 February, a double suicide bombing in the Beirut suburb of Bir Al-Hassan, which targeted the Iranian Cultural Centre, was claimed by the Abdallah Azzam Brigades. Shelling from Syria targeted Lebanese populated areas in the Bekaa Valley and killed two people in the Akkar region. There were at least two airstrikes by Syrian aircraft in violation of Lebanese sovereignty. In Tripoli, continued fighting between the Alawite and Sunni communities caused at least five fatalities, including one Lebanese soldier.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

38. “On 18 and 19 February, artillery and mortar fire rounds from the Bravo side landed across the ceasefire line. There was no response from the Alpha side. We are also looking into the reports of an air strike yesterday in the border area between Lebanon and Syria, and we urge all parties to avoid escalation. Those developments have the potential to escalate and to jeopardize the ceasefire between Israel and Syria, as well as to heighten tensions between Lebanon and Israel. In Lebanon, the formation of a Government of national interest was a major positive development against a backdrop of continued tensions stemming from a spate of deadly terrorist attacks, as well as incidents of shelling and shooting from across the Syrian border into Lebanon.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

39. “The situation is deteriorating in Yarmouk, near Damascus, where 16,000 Palestine refugees remain trapped. While some assistance has reached those in need since 18 January, UNRWA continues to experience sporadic access. We call on all parties to grant UNRWA uninterrupted access to the civilian population of Yarmouk and other civilian areas. On 10 and 18 February, explosions took place near UNRWA schools in Muzeirib, killing 18 people. We deplore those indiscriminate attacks and remind the warring parties of their obligations under international law to protect all civilians. The situation in the Golan continues to be of deep concern. Heavy clashes between the Syrian armed forces and armed members of the opposition and shelling continued in the area of limitation in proximity to the area of separation.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

40. “That is something on which we must try to build. We are grateful to the Governments of the Russian Federation and the United States, and all in the region and globally, for showing vision and helping to organize that important process. We will continue to need the help of many of the countries who attended the Montreux Conference, as well as some who were not there. The Council held extensive discussions on the escalating humanitarian toll that the conflict continues to exert on the Syrian people. The Secretary-General wholeheartedly welcomed the Council's adoption of resolution 2139 (2014). We all hope that the resolution will allow all humanitarian actors on the ground to significantly increase their reach to all those in need. The ongoing hostilities in Syria also continue to impact the vulnerable community of Palestine refugees.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

41. “As the Council noted in that resolution, the communique sets out a number of key steps, beginning with the establishment of a transitional governing body exercising full executive powers, formed by mutual consent. The first round of intra-Syrian talks began on 23 January and continued for eight days. They included several direct sessions, as well as bilateral meetings with Joint Special Representative Brahimi and his team. The second round of talks took place from 10 to 15 February. Joint Special Representative Brahimi will brief the Council in the coming weeks, so I will therefore not go into specifics. The progress thus far has been limited, confirming the deep rift between the two sides. Yet it is no small feat that those long-awaited negotiations have finally begun, and both sides remain committed to sitting at the table.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

42. “Gaza, too, must reap the peace dividends of a negotiated two-State solution. Allow me now to turn to the Syrian conflict, whose toll of death and destruction in Syria and in the region continues to mount tragically, pointing urgently to the need for a political solution. After many months of effort, the Secretary-General convened in Montreux, on 22 January, the second Geneva Conference on Syria. More than 40 countries and international organizations participated and underlined their commitment to supporting a political solution to the Syrian conflict. They urged the Syrian sides to negotiate and reach an agreement on the full implementation of the Geneva communique (S/20l2/523, annex), as indeed the Council did in its resolution 2118 (2013).”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

43. “We also call for a lifting of restrictions on exports and transfers of goods to the West Bank and Israel, and for permitting the import of construction materials for the private sector. We hope that the Rafah crossing with Egypt will soon resume normal operations. Meanwhile, efforts to bridge the Palestinian divide continued. Fatah and Hamas delegations met in Gaza to discuss the implementation of existing reconciliation agreements, including the formation of a national consensus Government headed by President Abbas, and the organization of general elections. Ultimately, only the reunification of Gaza and the West Bank, under the legitimate Palestinian Authority, based on the commitments of the Palestine Liberation Organization, can pave the way for a durable solution for Gaza as part of political progress towards peace.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

44. “The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) urgently needs an additional $30 million to sustain critical emergency operations in Gaza, without which food aid will be cut back. We call on all donors, including those who have traditionally supported the Agency, to contribute to UNRWA's emergency appeals. The recent Israeli decision to allow the entry of 1,000 tons of cement and other construction materials for flood relief is positive. However, contrary to expectations, work on United Nations projects is still not back at the level originally agreed by the Israeli authorities, and more than 20 projects remain stalled since November 2013 due to lack of Israeli approval. We continue to call for the Israeli approval of all United Nations projects, and the resumption of already approved projects.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

45. “This reporting period saw the firing of 44 rockets and mortars, of which 15 landed in Israel. Israel conducted six incursions and seven air strikes into Gaza, resulting in the death of two militants and injuries to 10 Palestinians. Israeli forces also reported dismantling an improvised explosive device on the border fence on 18 February. Palestinian activities and protests multiplied in the vicinity of the border fence and were met by increased Israeli live fire, resulting in two Palestinians shot dead and 16 injured. We are deeply concerned about that rise in violence and we call on all parties to act in accordance with international law. Due to the ongoing closure of Gaza, the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

46. “We will continue to follow the situation of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli detention closely. Visits by Israeli groups, including senior officials, to the Temple Mount/Al-Haram Al-Sharif resulted in clashes between Palestinians and the Israeli police accompanying those groups. Incitement or provocations from any quarter must cease and the sanctity of holy sites of all faiths must be respected. Turning to Gaza, there are troubling signs that the ceasefire understanding of November 2012 is eroding in both of its main requirements: the end of hostilities and the opening of the crossing for people and goods. In the past two months, we have seen more rockets being fired at Israel, border incidents and Israeli operations causing death or injury to civi1ians. We condemn the increased rocket fire.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

47. “We are also increasingly worried by reports of impeded access for the humanitarian community in the delivery of emergency shelter and other assistance. This month, the International Committee of the Red Cross decided to suspend its distribution oftents to people affected by house demolitions in the Jordan Valley, after noting a pattern of obstructions and confiscations of those items by Israeli authorities since the beginning of 2013. We have reiterated our position on the continued practice of administrative detention by Israel, including of elected Palestinian Legislative Council members, and the six prisoners on hunger strike since January. Administrative detainees must be either charged or released. We are concerned about today's report that a Palestinian prisoner died after he was transferred from an Israeli jail to the hospital.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

48. “Palestinian stone- and Molotov-cocktail-throwing attacks - on the rise in recent months - resulted in three settlers injured. The reporting period registered increased funding and incentives by the Israeli Government for existing settlements. Continued settlement activity, including in occupied East Jerusalem, is illegal and erodes hope for the two-State solution by undermining ongoing Israeli- Palestinian peace talks. We are deeply concerned by the ongoing demolition of Palestinian residential and livelihood structures in Area C, particularly in the Jordan Valley and East Jerusalem. A total of 107 structures were demolished, leading to the displacement of 175 Palestinians. Those demolitions must stop and Palestinians must be given access to a fair and inclusive planning regime.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

49. “Palestinian security forces, working to maintain order and security, safely defused some unexploded ordnance between 22 January and 3 February and arrested Hizb ut-Tahrir Islamic militants on 8 and 9 February. Attacks by settlers on Palestinian property included damage to more than 3,000 trees and saplings and some 80 vehicles. On 6 February, three settlers were reportedly charged for setting fire to two vehicles and spray painting stars of David in the Palestinian village of Farata in November. During another attack, on 18 February, the tires of some 30 cars were slashed and anti-Arab graffiti was painted in the Sharafat neighbourhood of occupied East Jerusalem. The Israeli police reported the arrest in four operations of more than 10 settlers reportedly involved in attacks on Palestinians or their property.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source

50. “Clashes increased in and around Palestinian refugee camps, most notably in early February in the Al-Arroub and Al-Jalazoun camps, following the killing on 29 January of one Palestinian from the Al-Jalazoun camp near Ramallah and the Ofra settlement after allegedly opening fire at Israeli security forces. More than 30 Palestinian protesters were injured by Israeli live ammunition and rubber-coated metal bullets, while two Israeli soldiers were injured by stone- and Molotov cocktail-throwing. Israeli security forces reported having foiled several terrorist attacks on Israel allegedly planned by individuals in the West Bank. That included the arrest of an alleged Al-Qaida cell on 22 January and the uncovering of several arms caches.”

    2014-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7118 (2014) · source