YouSaid · the spoken record

Fernandez-Taranco

lines on the record: 315
first: 2009-07-27
most recent: 2019-06-14
sittings or episodes: 17
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

“The Secretary-General commended the Palestinian and Israeli leaders on those important first steps and expressed his appreciation to His Majesty King Abdullah of Jordan for his initiative to facilitate talks and give new impetus to the Middle East peace process. The Secretary-General, who was in Lebanon 10 days ago, will soon visit the region again to support the search for peace. We remain hopeful that the preparatory meetings between Israeli and Palestinian negotiators will continue and ultimately lead to serious negotiations based on comprehensive proposals on territory and security, and reaching an agreement for a two-State solution by the end of this year, as envisaged by the Quartet.”
2012-01-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6706 (2012) · source
“Mr. Fernandez-Taranco: After 15 months of absence of direct talks, I am pleased to report that Israeli and Palestinian negotiators started meeting on 3 January in Amman under the auspices of King Abdullah and Minister for Foreign Affairs Judeh of Jordan and in the presence of Quartet envoys and Quartet representative Blair. Since that first meeting, a series of direct preparatory talks have been held under Jordanian auspices. The parties began discussing important issues related to territory and security, in accordance with the Quartet statement of 23 September 2011. They are also discussing ways to build confidence and create a positive environment for those talks to succeed.”
2012-01-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6706 (2012) · source
“Our challenge remains to help the parties overcome them, and I urge them to utilize the opportunity provided by the framework laid out by the Quartet to de-escalate the situation, return to direct talks with serious proposals on borders and security, and stop provocations. The Quartet remains focused on achieving progress in the coming period, and the parties can be assured that the United Nations will continue to play its role in support of their efforts to achieve a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in the Middle East.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“The increase is largely due to refugees who had crossed into Lebanon earlier but who registered only recently. The number of wounded individuals admitted to Lebanese health facilities as a result of fighting on the Syrian side of the border has also increased. Turkey and Jordan now host about 8,500 and 2,000 displaced Syrian nationals respectively. The United Nations continues to coordinate closely with those Governments on providing assistance to the displaced persons. Turning back to the Middle East peace process, let me conclude by reiterating our worry that as the year draws to a close, the situation on the ground is deteriorating and the path towards peace remains dangerously uncertain. We must not allow such negative dynamics to prevail; too much is at stake.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“We have growing concerns about the humanitarian impact of the crisis on civilians inside Syria. The League of Arab States has continued its commendable initiative to end the violence and promote a political solution. In that regard, we are encouraged by the signing yesterday in Cairo of a protocol to dispatch monitors from the League of Arab States to Syria, and we continue to hope that the international community will be able to act in a concerted and coherent manner in support of those efforts for a peaceful resolution of the crisis. 11-64536 The United Nations continues to monitor the influx of displaced Syrian nationals into northern Lebanon. As of 16 December, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the Lebanese Government had registered 4,510 displaced persons, up from 3,581 the previous month.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“Two bodyguards of the leader of the Palestinian Armed Struggle, Colonel Mahmoud Issa, were killed on 14 and 18 December as a result of those attempts. The situation in Syria remains a source of deep and growing concern for the United Nations. On 12 December, High Commissioner for Human Rights Navanethem Pillay briefed the Council on the continued widespread violations of human rights in Syria, after which the Secretary-General transmitted the report of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria to the Council. In recent days, popular protests have continued to be met with violent repression, resulting in numerous deaths, injuries and detentions. Instances of armed confrontation between the Government forces and the opposition have also increased.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“Meanwhile, Israeli flights over Lebanese airspace have continued on an almost daily basis, and there has been no progress on other outstanding issues in connection with resolution 1701 (2006). In a positive development, Prime Minister Najib Mikati announced on 30 November that he had transferred Lebanon's share of the budget of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon for 2011. The Secretary- General welcomed that important step and expressed to Prime Minister Mikati his confidence in Lebanon's continued respect for its international obligations. The situation inside the Palestinian refugee camp Ain el-Hilweh in Saida/Sidon remains tense, following two recent assassination attempts on bodyguards of local Palestinian Liberation Organization leaders and subsequent infighting between Palestinian factions.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“In addition, on 19 December, four rockets, ready to be fired, were found by the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) in the UNIFIL area of operation. The Secretary-General condemns all indiscriminate rocket attacks and urges all parties to exercise maximum restraint. He reminds them of their obligation to fully adhere to resolution 1701 (2006) and to respect the cessation of hostilities. The Lebanese authorities and politicians across the political spectrum in Lebanon have condemned all of those incidents, which represent attempts to undermine resolution 1701 (2006) and destabilize the situation in the south of Lebanon. Investigations into all of them are ongoing. The LAF and UNIFIL have also stepped up their individual and joint operational activities to prevent the occurrence of similar incidents.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“On 9 December, the detonation of a roadside explosive device targeting a UNIFIL patrol in the suburbs of Tyre injured five peacekeepers and two Lebanese civilian bystanders. The Secretary-General and this Council condemned the attack, which was the third direct attack against UNIFIL this year, and the first one in the UNIFIL area of operations since June 2007. Two rocket-launching incidents have occurred in recent weeks. The Council has already been briefed on the rocket-firing incident of 29 November. On 11 December, one rocket was fired from the general area of Qaissiyeh valley towards Israel. The rocket hit a private home in the Lebanese village of Houla, just a few kilometres from the Blue Line, causing serious injuries to a woman inside the house.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“We continue to support reconciliation efforts within the framework of the commitments of the Palestine Liberation Organization, the positions of the Quartet and the Arab Peace Initiative. Finally, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Mr. Frank La Rue, visited the occupied Palestinian territories and Israel from 6 to 17 December, the first such visit. He shared his initial findings and recommendations in Jerusalem on 18 December. Allow me now to turn to Lebanon, where a number of incidents in the area of operations of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) have raised concerns since we last briefed the Council.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“We will continue to work with the Government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority in that regard. We are concerned by the de facto authorities' intent to tax the Bank of Palestine and the Palestine Islamic Bank, as well as the subsequent travel ban on senior bank staff. The regular functioning of the banking sector is vital to the Gazan economy. Furthermore, the United Nations relies on the financial services of those institutions for its operations in Gaza. This past weekend, a series of meetings among the Palestinian factions began in Cairo as part of efforts to advance Palestinian reconciliation. The finalization of many of the key provisions of the reconciliation accord remains outstanding, and meetings will continue throughout this week.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“We are encouraged by a limited resumption of agricultural exports to Europe, worth an estimated $25 million during the reporting period. However, extensive restrictions remain in place, and the needs of Gaza's civilian population remain significant. We continue to call for the full liberalization of imports of construction materials as a means of enabling the legitimate economy and replacing the illicit tunnel trade. It is important that exports be allowed to resume at scale, including transfers to the West Bank. Those changes could be applied with due consideration for Israel's legitimate security concerns, in line with Security Council resolution 1860 (2009) in all its aspects, and could make a significant difference in the lives of many Gazans.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“We condemn in the strongest terms any indiscriminate firing of projectiles towards civilian areas and call on Israel to show maximum restraint. Obligations under international humanitarian law must be respected for the protection of civilians. 3 The implementation of United Nations projects with a total value of approximately $365 million continues in Gaza and construction materials for those projects are entering through the Kerem Shalom crossing. Special Coordinator Serry recently visited Gaza and noted the progress being made in the Khan Younis housing project and a number of United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) schools. While three major UNRWA housing projects are still pending approval, that progress improves the lives of people in Gaza and must be sustained and expanded.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“On 8 December, an Israeli air strike killed two militants in Gaza City and injured 10 civilians. Israel stated that one of the militants had been involved in attacks against Israel before and was planning more. The firing of projectiles from Gaza into Israel intensified in the wake of the air strike, with no reported damage or injuries. The Office of the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process has actively supported Egyptian efforts to restore calm. During the entire reporting period, 45 projectiles, including five Grad rockets, were fired from Gaza into Israel. The IDF conducted nine incursions and 13 air strikes, resulting in the deaths of three Palestinian militants and three civilians, while five Palestinian militants and 21 civilians sustained injuries.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“On 6 December, the second of four Hamas-affiliated members of the Palestinian Legislative Council from East Jerusalem, who had been sheltered by the International Committee of the Red Cross since June 2010, was deported from East Jerusalem to Ramallah. In a separate development, the Mughrabi Gate ramp to the Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif, through which tourists and non-Muslims access the compound, was reopened on 14 December after a temporary closure over safety concerns raised by the municipality. In Gaza and southern Israel, we once again witnessed a dangerous deterioration in the security situation. On 7 December, an Islamic Jihad militant was killed and another critically wounded by an Israeli Air Force missile. Israel has said that the two militants were planning to launch an attack along the buffer zone.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“On 18 December, 550 prisoners, including 55 minors and six women, were released as part of the second phase of the agreement to exchange prisoners for captured Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit. 11-64536 Palestinian security forces have continued working to uphold law and order in the West Bank, including seizing and defusing unexploded devices on 21 and 23 November and 3 December. Close cooperation has continued with Israeli security forces, leading to the arrest of a number of suspected perpetrators of violence against Palestinians and their properties. In East Jerusalem, Palestinian residency rights remain a serious human rights concern.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“On 10 December, a Palestinian protesting the takeover of privately-owned land by Israeli settlers died from wounds sustained the day before in the West Bank locality of Nabi Saleh, when an IDF soldier fired a tear gas canister at close range from an armoured IDF vehicle at which the protester had been throwing stones. Sixty-one Palestinians and three IDF soldiers were also injured during similar protests. We await the results of the investigation that was launched by the Israeli authorities. Allow me to stress that the right to peaceful protest must be upheld and that protests should be kept strictly non-violent. During the reporting period, citing security reasons, the Israel Defense Forces conducted 337 operations in the West Bank, during which 154 Palestinians were injured, including six children, and 233 arrested.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“During the night of 12 December, several dozen Israeli extremists stormed an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) base and blocked adjacent roads in the West Bank. In parallel, a group of Israeli extremists approached the border with Jordan and was stopped from crossing by the IDF. We welcome Prime Minister Netanyahu's strong condemnation of such violent acts and his stated intent to prevent such incidents from reoccurring. It is critical that those statements be translated into swift and decisive action, including for the protection of Palestinians and their property. Demonstrations against the barrier in the occupied West Bank continue on a regular basis, as the barrier's route deviates from the Green Line in contravention of the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“It is deeply troubling that attacks by settlers on Palestinians and their property have become a systematic occurrence - often, but not exclusively, in the context of anticipated 11-64536 Government action against illegal settlement construction. Six Palestinians, including two children, were injured by settlers during the reporting period. On 14, 18 and 19 December, cars and other Palestinian property were set on fire. Several mosques were also targeted. On 7 December, an arson attack was carried out against a mosque in the West Bank village of Burqin. On 15 December, a mosque in Burka village, close to Ramallah, was set on fire. On 19 December, a mosque was desecrated near Hebron. In addition, on 13 December, a mosque that is not currently in use was desecrated in West Jerusalem.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“As the Secretary- General reaffirmed on 12 December, all settlement construction in the occupied Palestinian territory is contrary to international law and Israel's obligations under the road map, prejudices final status negotiations and should stop. During the reporting period, 57 Palestinian structures, comprising 28 residences, were demolished in the West Bank owing to the lack of permits. Six of those demolitions took place in East Jerusalem, marking the resumption of demolitions of residential structures in the city following a period of relative restraint. Throughout this year, we have repeatedly warned about the increase in settler violence.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“On 27 November, a plan for the construction of 119 housing units in the West Bank settlement of Shilo was approved. On 7 December the construction permit process for 14 housing units in the East Jerusalem neighbourhood of Ras al-Amud advanced closer to completion. On 12 December, approval was given for the construction of 40 homes and a farm near the West Bank settlement of Efrat, close to the Palestinian town of Bethlehem, impeding the natural development of that Palestinian urban centre. On 17 December, the Government of Israel announced its intention to issue construction tenders for 1,028 housing units in the settlements of Har Homa, Beitar Illit and Giv'at Ze'ev.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“Envoys will intensify their efforts to help the parties in that regard. It is worth noting that, while the Palestinian flag was raised at UNESCO headquarters on 13 December, the Palestinian Authority has not taken further steps towards membership in other United Nations organs or specialized agencies. The Government of Israel decided on 30 November to renew the transfer of tax and customs revenues owed to the Palestinian Authority, which had been withheld after the vote at UNESCO. It is critical that such transfers continue regularly and predictably, so as to safeguard the achievements of the Palestinian Authority's State- building agenda. The reporting period witnessed a series of developments that are cause for continued serious concern. Several new settlement constructions have been announced.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“They reiterated the 23 September statement by Quartet principals (see SG/2178) and stressed the important objective of a direct exchange between the parties without delay or preconditions, beginning with a preparatory meeting and leading to the presentation of comprehensive proposals on territory and security. The envoys called on the parties to create an environment conducive to restarting talks and urged both sides to refrain from provocative actions. We continue to believe that de-escalation is necessary to facilitate the resumption of direct, meaningful engagement between the two sides. It is encouraging that, at the last meeting with the Quartet envoys, both Israel and the Palestinians signalled a willingness to think constructively about reciprocal 2 actions that may help reduce tensions.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“Mr. Fernandez-Taranco: Credible progress in the search for peace between Israel and the Palestinians is more urgent than ever, but it has remained elusive in the context of tensions on the ground, deep mistrust between the parties and volatile regional dynamics. Over the past month, violent incidents erupted at a worrisome rate. Another dangerous round of escalation also occurred in Gaza. The realization of the two-State solution has not advanced, eroding hopes and underscoring the urgent need for both sides to engage without further delay in serious substantive negotiations to resolve all permanent status issues. Efforts to help the parties resume direct talks continue. On 14 December, Quartet envoys and Quartet Representative Blair held their third round of separate meetings with the Israeli and Palestinian negotiators.”
2011-12-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6692 (2011) · source
“Let me conclude by reiterating a sense of urgency to break the current impasse in the Israeli-Palestinian negotiations. The important achievements, especially 11-27288 those related to the State-building agenda of the Palestinian Authority, will be at risk if the impasse in the political process is not overcome. A decisive effort must now be made by the international community and the Quartet to bring the parties back to negotiating the final status issues towards implementing the two-State solution. We urge the parties to demonstrate leadership and to rise to the challenge of making an historic peace. 11-27288”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“I call on Palestinian factions to de-escalate the situation. UNRWA continues to strive for the delivery of improved services to the Palestinian refugees it serves. I call upon the international community to step up support to UNRWA in order to urgently meet its funding requirements. The overall situation in the area of operations of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon has remained generally quiet and stable. Israeli air violations continued at high levels, in violation of resolution 1701 (2006). Further details will be discussed by the Special Coordinator of the Secretary- General for Lebanon and the Department of Peacekeeping Operations when they brief the Council on the implementation of the resolution on 29 March.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“The Secretary-General renews his hope that the new Government will meet the aspirations of all Lebanese and calls on it to respect Lebanon's international obligations. On 13 March, the 14 March coalition held a major political rally to commemorate the sixth anniversary of its formation. All speakers at the rally expressed strong support for the Special Tribunal for Lebanon and denounced the continued existence of arms outside the control of the State and their use as political instruments in the domestic arena. I am concerned by the increase in verbal attacks and even some acts of violence in Lebanon against staff members of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), following the death of a young boy on 8 March in Ein el-Hilweh camp.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“We are concerned by the continued detention of several thousand Palestinians in Israel, and we call for their rights to be respected. As far as the regional aspects of the peace process are concerned, there has been no progress in efforts to promote Israeli-Syrian peace negotiations. Settlement activities in the occupied Syrian Golan have also continued. We encourage the parties to pursue the resolution of the conflict in the context of the Arab Peace Initiative. In Lebanon, Mr. Mikati, whom President Sleiman mandated on 25 January to form a new Government, has pursued his consultations with all political parties in a climate of increased political polarization. On 27 February, the 14 March coalition announced that it would not take part in the future Government. Mr. Mikati has placed great emphasis on forming a non-partisan Government.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“However, a fundamental upgrade in the entry of materials through Israeli crossings is necessary for the United Nations to continue its work and, more importantly, for the rehabilitation of the private sector, which is critical to the revival of the economy in Gaza. Based on our estimates, the amount of construction materials that is now entering through the tunnels is substantially more than the amount passing through the Israeli crossings for approved international projects. I regret to continue to report that Staff Sergeant Gilad Shalit remains in Hamas captivity and has had no humanitarian access for nearly five years. We reiterate our call for his release and for humanitarian access to be provided to him without delay.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“The situation of the civilian population in Gaza remains a concern. The weekly average number of truckloads entering the Strip during the reporting period was 882, compared to 566 in June 2010, before the announcement of the revised Israeli policy. However, the current imports represent approximately only one third of the June 2007 pre-blockade weekly average. United Nations projects with a total value of $155.5 million have been approved thus far by the Government of Israel. It is now important to ensure the timely implementation of those projects and a steady flow of approvals. The recent movement of 23,650 tons of aggregate from Sufa crossing is a welcome step.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“Also on 15 March, Hamas security 3 forces attacked local members of the press; on 19 March, they stormed the bureaus of Reuters, CNN and the NHK news channel, attacking journalists, confiscating tapes and destroying equipment. We condemn those attacks and urge full respect for the freedom of the press in Gaza as elsewhere. Notwithstanding the difficulties, preparations for municipal elections are ongoing. The Palestinian Central Elections Committee organized voter registration in the West Bank from 9 to 15 March. It was unable to open its offices in Gaza due to the refusal of Hamas. On 8 March, President Abbas confirmed that the local elections scheduled for 9 July would be held on time. However, he reiterated that there would be no presidential and legislative elections unless they were held in the West Bank and Gaza simultaneously.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“We welcome serious efforts by all factions to advance Palestinian unity and continue to hope for real progress within the framework of the Palestinian Authority and the commitments of the Palestine Liberation Organization. On 15 March, demonstrations involving several thousand participants were held in most major West Bank cities. On the same day, much larger demonstrations were held in Gaza, with participation estimated at 100,000. Protestors called for an end to the Israeli occupation and the Palestinian division. I report with concern that Hamas security forces clamped down on protesters in Gaza, reportedly injuring seven Palestinians. The following day they suppressed a gathering of students, resulting in tens of students injured.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“As the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee is about to meet on 13 April, I wish to emphasize that continued support from donors is important to meet recurrent budget expenses of the Palestinian Authority. To date, commitments are far below what is needed. The Secretary-General noted with much interest the readiness of President Abbas to visit Gaza in an effort to end Palestinian disunity. He also discussed the importance of Palestinian unity with the Egyptian Foreign Minister in Cairo and noted Egyptian intentions to focus anew on that important issue. It is important that the leaders respond to the clear wish of the people for unity.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“Measures agreed by Prime Minister Netanyahu and Quartet Representative Blair have started to be implemented in some areas. For example, on 3 March, the Israeli Ministry of Communications released the remaining bandwidth to the Wataniya mobile operator. Such facilitation is critical to further the development of the Palestinian private sector, which is the engine of sustainable economic growth. However, State-building efforts by the Palestinian Authority will be at risk if the political process does not overcome the current impasse in the negotiations. It will be further undermined if tensions and violence on the ground continue. They also continue to be impeded in area C and East Jerusalem by Israeli measures that challenge movement and access, hinder the provision of basic services and undermine the development of resources.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“However, we note that it fails to address the issue of the existence of more than 100 other West Bank outposts constructed not only in defiance of international law but also in violation of the Israeli Government's own regulations. On 28 February, the Israeli authorities demolished a number of structures in an outpost in the northern West Bank, prompting violent clashes with settlers that led to 17 arrests. Following the confrontation, militant settlers attacked a nearby Palestinian village, fire- bombing a house and injuring two children and damaging property. Prime Minister Netanyahu condemned their actions. 11-27288 We stress the importance of further enabling steps by Israel to ensure greater progress on the ground in support of Palestinian State-building efforts.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“Once again, I would like to express the United Nations position that any settlement activity by Israel in occupied territory is illegal under international law and detrimental to efforts to resume negotiations and achieve the two- State solution. Israeli authorities demolished 59 Palestinian structures throughout the West Bank during the reporting period. As a result, 119 people were forcibly displaced. Israel, as the occupying Power, is prohibited from destroying property belonging to individuals or communities, except when absolutely required by military necessity. On 7 March, the Israeli Government announced its intention to demolish all illegal West Bank outposts built on private Palestinian land by the end of 2011. We welcome that announcement.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“If that destination were to be confirmed, it would constitute a Violation of resolution 1860 (2009), which provides for the prevention of illicit trafficking of arms and ammunition. We are deeply concerned about the decision of 12 March by the Israeli Government to approve the construction of approximately 400 housing units in the West Bank in reaction to the heinous murder in Itamar. On 1 March, the Jerusalem municipality issued a permit for the construction of 14 apartments for Israeli settlers in the Ras al-Amud neighbourhood of East Jerusalem. Those are provocative actions that only serve to exacerbate tensions.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“Twelve missiles, one of which was a Grad rocket, and 55 mortars were shot indiscriminately towards Israeli civilian areas, including some 50 mortar shells, in an alarming escalation during the night between 19 and 20 March. We condemn those attacks, which are a violation of resolution 1860 (2009) and which must cease immediately. More than 20 air strikes and 15 incursions took place, resulting in the deaths of three Palestinian civilians and 28 injured, as well as two militants killed and five injured. All parties 11-27288 must exercise restraint and respect international humanitarian law. On 15 March, Israeli forces intercepted the ship Victoria 200 nautical miles from the Israeli coast. The ship carried some 25 tones of weapons and ammunition. The Israeli authorities believe that the arms were destined for militant groups in Gaza.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“We recall that the Israeli Government must fulfil its obligation to protect the Palestinian population in the occupied West Bank. Citing security concerns, Israeli security forces conducted 320 search operations in the West Bank. One hundred and eleven Palestinians were injured by Israeli security forces and 217 were arrested. About half of those injuries occurred in the East Jerusalem neighbourhood of Silwan during clashes between local residents and the Israeli police in the context of protests against settler activities in the neighbourhood. We are also concerned by the increased violence and tensions in and around Gaza during the reporting period.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“Despite those efforts, during the three days following the murders, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs recorded eight incidents that resulted in injuries to Palestinians, and 23 that caused damage to property throughout the West Bank, as a result of settler violence. As well, the Israeli security forces reinstated the Hawwara check point near Nablus, which had been removed on 11 February. Overall, settler violence considerably increased during the reporting period, with 60 incidents resulting in damage to property and 24 Palestinians injured by settlers in 18 incidents in the West Bank. In one of those incidents, on Monday, a Palestinian was stabbed and injured by settlers close to Hebron. In another incident yesterday two Palestinians were shot and wounded by settlers.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“The Secretary-General and the Quartet unequivocally condemned the murders, offered condolences and called for those responsible to be brought to justice and for all to act with restraint. 2 The Quartet stated that attacks on any civilians are completely unacceptable in any circumstance. President Abbas condemned the murders and offered the help of Palestinian security forces in bringing the perpetrators to justice. We expect strong action against incitement or glorification of any violent acts. Israeli forces were deployed in several areas throughout the West Bank with the goal of detaining the perpetrators and containing attempts by Israeli settlers to attack Palestinians and their property in reprisal for the killings.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“During the reporting period, the Quartet continued its efforts to help the parties to find a way back to direct negotiations. As agreed in Munich on 5 February, Quartet envoys have met separately with Palestinian and Israeli negotiators, and are giving serious consideration to the views of the parties on how to bring about resumed negotiations on all core issues, including borders and security. Quartet envoys will further engage with both sides, and the Quartet is planning to meet at the principals level in April. It is hoped that this meeting can help set the stage for renewed negotiations, and the United Nations is working actively towards this goal. On 11 March, a shocking murder of five members, including three young children, of an Israeli family of seven took place at the settlement of Itamar in the occupied West Bank.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“Mr. Fernandez-Taranco: Since last month's briefing (see S/PV.6488), there has been an increase in violent incidents and tensions on the ground, while efforts to restart the Israeli-Palestinian negotiations have not produced visible results. We must not let the recent surge in violence further undermine the possibility of finding a way towards an agreement on final status issues or undermine the State-building achievements thus far. The wider region has continued to witness dramatic developments, which add to the importance of redoubling efforts to break the deadlock as progress towards peace and meeting the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people to statehood could be an important stabilizing force in the Middle East.”
2011-03-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6501 (2011) · source
“We must remain collectively committed to the goal of a peace agreement within a year from the start of talks in September. We must overcome the current impasse and - more important - ensure that when talks resume they move intensively and definitively to seek resolutions of the key core issues, including borders. The Secretary-General will continue to work closely with the Quartet and regional and international partners - and the parties themselves - to support this agenda. The United Nations remains committed to an end to the occupation that began in 1967 and to the goal of establishing an independent, democratic, contiguous and viable Palestinian State living side by side in peace and security with Israel and its other neighbours.”
2010-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6404 (2010) · source
“The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) continues to face funding shortfalls, both for its regular programmes, aimed at delivering basic services to Palestinian refugees, and for the reconstruction of the Nahr al-Bared camp. We reiterate our call to donors, including countries in the region, to provide vital financial support for the reconstruction efforts, as well as for the work of UNRWA. The overall situation in the area of operation of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon remained generally quiet. During the past month Israeli air violations took place on an almost daily basis. The twelfth report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of resolution 1559 (2004) will be released today.”
2010-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6404 (2010) · source
“Against that background, the Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Michael C. Williams, held meetings with Lebanese officials and political leaders and called on all sides to tackle difficult issues in an atmosphere of calm. The Secretary-General expressed his support for the work of the Special Tribunal, stressing that it is independent, with a clear mandate from the Security Council, through resolutions 1664 (2006) and 1757 (2007), to uncover the truth and end impunity, and that no one should prejudge the outcome. On 13 and 14 October, the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran conducted an official visit to Lebanon, including to the south of the country. The visit sparked serious concerns in many quarters. The living conditions of Palestinian refugees in Lebanon remained of serious concern.”
2010-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6404 (2010) · source
“We look forward to the continued cooperation of the parties with the Panel and to the Panel's further progress and substantive work. It remains essential - and indeed urgent - that serious steps are taken to restore the regional tracks of the peace process, in particular between Israel and Syria. Only a comprehensive approach to peace will be sustainable and has the potential to ease tensions in the region. On the ground, the situation in the occupied Golan remained stable but settlement activities continued. Turning to Lebanon, tensions generated by speculation and allegations related to potential indictments by the Special Tribunal for Lebanon grew steadily in recent weeks. Those tensions were accompanied by a sharp increase in the use of belligerent rhetoric and challenges to State institutions, raising fears of sectarian violence.”
2010-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6404 (2010) · source
“We continue to support efforts to advance Palestinian reconciliation based on commitments of the Palestinian Liberation Organization. These efforts have been stalled following Hamas's refusal to sign the Egyptian-brokered draft reconciliation proposal. Senior Fatah representatives met with Hamas leader Khaled Mashal in Damascus on 23 September. A further session of talks is expected on 20 October. As mentioned at the last monthly briefing to the Council (see PV.6388), the Secretary-General's Panel of Inquiry on the 31 May 2010 flotilla incident will discuss and review the interim reports once it had also received a report from Israel. The Israeli commission to examine the maritime incident of 31 May 2010 continues its proceedings, which are now at an advanced stage.”
2010-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6404 (2010) · source
“Some civic groups, including partners in United Nations-implemented projects, have suspended their operations in Gaza, claiming to have experienced increasing pressure from the authorities. In addition, on 19 September, unknown assailants set ablaze a recreation water park in Gaza. We are also concerned that, on 22 September, a Palestinian man was sentenced to death by firing squad after a military tribunal convicted him of collaboration with enemy parties. We reiterate our concern over the continued captivity of Staff Sergeant Shalit and call for his immediate release. Humanitarian access to him should be granted without further delay. We note reports of a resumption of efforts to conclude an agreement that would secure his release in exchange for the release of a number of the more than 9,000 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.”
2010-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6404 (2010) · source
“While these are only a portion of the total package presented to Israel, they are nevertheless part of an expanding flow of United Nations recovery and construction work, which will begin to address Gaza's immense recovery and reconstruction needs. In that regard, the United Nations will present additional programmes of work before the end of the year and will continue to work with the Government of Israel to streamline implementation arrangements. One immediate step would be for Israel to expand the working hours and days for which the Karni crossing is open. The de facto Hamas authorities closed down several civilian associations during the reporting period, including a journalists' syndicate and a farmers' union.”
2010-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6404 (2010) · source