YouSaid · the spoken record

Mladenov

lines on the record: 1,041
first: 2013-11-25
most recent: 2020-09-29
sittings or episodes: 54
sources: un-security-council

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“It is the West Bank's largest city with a population of some 170,000 people. It is also an industrial and commercial engine. Annual exports to Israel amount to over $240 million. The city's continued development is thus integral to the economic viability of a future Palestinian state. I recently visited Hebron, and a walk through the old city evokes a starkly different image - streets barricaded and unnaturally cut off, houses emptied of life and activity, lives caged in by metal grids and turnstiles. Over the past 20 years, the city's Palestinian and Jewish populations have been physically separated. The economic impact of the violence raging in and around Hebron has been severe for the entire district. Once thriving markets are now eerily abandoned.”
2015-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7562 (2015) · source
“According to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, during the reporting period, in clashes across the West Bank and Gaza, 11 Palestinians were killed and over 3,500 injured, with 7 others injured in settler-related violence. I must once again reiterate the resolute condemnation of the United Nation of all terrorist attacks, and I call on political, community and religious leaders on all sides to speak out against terror and all forms of violence. Since our last briefing (see S/PV.7521), the epicentre ofviolence has moved to Hebron, which, like Jerusalem, has holy sites revered by both Muslims and Jews and has been a cause of friction for decades. Hebron is the heart of the Palestinian economy. Its vitality is unmistakable and its vast potential for growth is broadly recognized.”
2015-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7562 (2015) · source
“Over the past month, there were 36 reported attacks, including stabbings or attempted stabbings, shootings or car-rammings, by Palestinians against Israelis in Israel and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. They left at least 7 Israelis dead and 37 injured, including today's attack in Tel Aviv and just now in the settlement of Gush Etzion. The two apparent sniper attacks in Hebron on 7 November, which would be the first oftheir kind since the current escalation began, and the brutal drive-by shooting south of Hebron on 13 November, which killed a father and his son, are worrying signs of escalation from the use of knives to the use of firearms. Of the suspected Palestinian assailants, 24 have been killed.”
2015-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7562 (2015) · source
“Mr. Mladenov: At the outset, on behalf of the United Nations family in Jerusalem, I would like to extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of the victims of the abhorrent terrorist attacks in Paris, Beirut and the Sinai. These tragic events serve to reinforce the reality that the extremism and terrorism that have infected many parts of the Middle East are no longer constrained by barriers. They can strike anywhere, anytime, and pose a grave threat to international peace and security. Against that backdrop, we cannot separate the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from this global threat. Establishing a Palestinian State, while addressing Israel's substantial security concerns, would yield major dividends not only for Israelis and Palestinians alike, but for the entire region.”
2015-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7562 (2015) · source
“In response, Israeli forces hit Syrian military positions in and near the town of Quneitra. Allow me to conclude by underlining that, for too long, the Israeli and Palestinian populations have lived their lives vacillating between hope and fear, with fear frequently triumphing. The time has now come to right that balance and restore the hope for a peaceful future for both Palestinians and Israelis. To do so will require a broad approach that integrates tough political decisions by the parties on the ground, focused engagement and goodwill of key regional actors, and coherent, reliable support from the international community. The United Nations stands ready to play its role in helping to shape this strategy and to work towards the goal of a comprehensive and just peace in the region.”
2015-09-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7521 (2015) · source
“Demonstrators continue to raise demands relating to services and the performance of the political leadership. On 22 and 25 August, heavy clashes between factions in the Palestinian refugee camp of Ain Al-Hilweh led to a number of fatalities. Following the negotiation of a ceasefire, the situation has now returned to calm. The situation in area of operations of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) remains generally quiet. The cooperation of Israel and Lebanon with UNIFIL was illustrated on 20 August. when four rockets exploded in northern Israel without causing injury. Close coordination between UNIFIL and the parties resulted in quick clarification that the rockets that had landed south of the Blue Line had in fact originated from Syria and not from southern Lebanon.”
2015-09-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7521 (2015) · source
“Let me be clear on one point related to Gaza: without genuine Palestinian reconciliation and unity, all efforts to improve the situation will face major difficulties. I welcome the determination of Prime Minister Hamdallah and his efforts to find a solution to the problem ofpublic sector employees in Gaza. The United Nations stands ready to work with all stakeholders and to support the Government in mobilizing the necessary resources for that process. With regard to Lebanon, the Council heard a briefing by Special Coordinator Kaag on 2 September. We welcome the launch of a political leaders' dialogue on 9 September to address key issues, including the presidency. On the same day, Prime Minister Salam convened the Cabinet, which agreed on a new waste-management plan.”
2015-09-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7521 (2015) · source
“Moreover, restrictions on the import of goods defined as having a dual use continue to impede humanitarian recovery and reconstruction efforts. The United Nations reiterates its call for a full lifting of all closures on Gaza, as envisaged in resolution 1860 (2009), with due consideration for the security concerns of Israel and Egypt. In that context, I am glad to report that reconstruction, despite funding shortfalls, is picking up speed. I reiterate my call to international partners to disburse their pledges made during the Cairo conference. Meanwhile, some 94,000 homeowners have procured construction material to repair their homes. Construction is also progressing on 315 projects, including housing, water networks and schools, which have been submitted for Israeli approval. Eighteen projects have been completed and 149 are ongoing.”
2015-09-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7521 (2015) · source
“Over the last month, five rockets were fired at Israel by militant groups from Gaza, of which one impacted an open area in southern Israel without causing injury, while a further 10 rockets were test-fired at the sea. Israeli security forces conducted two airstrikes inside the Strip, neither of which resulted in injuries. Such incidents underscore the fragile dynamics within Gaza which, without positive change, will continue to provide fertile ground for extremism to flourish - extremism that will ultimately undermine the Palestinian goal of statehood. Israeli measures to relax some movement restrictions on Gaza over the past year have not enabled people to maintain normal family and economic ties or to increase their economic self-sufficiency.”
2015-09-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7521 (2015) · source
“I am alarmed that the calendar month of August saw the highest number of demolitions since June 2010, with 142 Palestinian-owned structures demolished and over 200 people displaced. Turning to Gaza, let me begin by reminding the Council that the situation there remains precarious and there is growing discontent among the population. With power outages averaging 12 to 16 hours per day, and with 40,000 public sector employees not having received full salaries for over one year, the people of Gaza are suffering. The United Nations will continue to support the efforts of the legitimate Palestinian institutions and to reach out to all factions in order to ensure that the humanitarian, social and economic challenges of Gaza are addressed.”
2015-09-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7521 (2015) · source
“One hundred and fifteen Palestinians were injured by the Israel Defence Forces, while six members of the Israeli security forces were injured by Palestinians. In the West Bank, Israeli security forces arrested 282 Palestinians. On 13 September, one Israeli died and two were slightly injured in a car accident in Jerusalem, which may have been caused by a rock- throwing incident. Also deeply troubling is the continuing Israeli policy of settlement construction and the demolition of Palestinian-owned structures in Area C of the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. I call upon Israel to freeze demolitions, to reverse relocation plans and - critically - to expedite the approval of outstanding planning submissions and enable community-led planning processes. Since my last briefing, some 50 Palestinian structures have been demolished.”
2015-09-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7521 (2015) · source
“I encourage Israel to recognize the potential of the Arab Peace Initiative not just for sustainable peace and economic development, but also for creating a shared security architecture in a region that is in turmoil. At the international level, the Secretary-General will chair a meeting of the Quartet on 30 September in order to discuss how to link regional and international efforts to create conditions on the ground for a return to meaningful negotiations. Even as efforts intensify to return to an atmosphere conducive to talks, the situation on the ground remains precarious. This past month, clashes between Palestinians and Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank continued, injuring one Palestinian and four Israelis.”
2015-09-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7521 (2015) · source
“Such initiatives must be part of a wider political process aimed at facilitating, not substituting for, a final status agreement. The Palestinian people also rightly expect their leaders to act decisively to advance national unity. I note the decision of the leadership to consult over the next three months with all factions and concerned Arab States on holding a meeting of the Palestinian National Council for the first time in almost two decades. The Secretary-General encourages all factions to seize that opportunity to take constructive steps to achieve unity on the basis of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) principles and to strengthen the PLO as the sole and legitimate representative of the Palestinian people. Regional and international constructive engagement is also key in this process.”
2015-09-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7521 (2015) · source
“A comprehensive approach must be advocated, consisting of bold, concrete actions on the ground, in the region and internationally. It will necessitate significant policy shifts on the part of Israel, as well as an unflinching commitment on the Palestinian side to achieving genuine national unity. I am encouraged by the efforts of Israel in recent months to ease some restrictions in the West Bank and Gaza. I call on the Government to expand upon them in order to address humanitarian, economic and infrastructural challenges, particularly in Area C of the West Bank. Progress in these areas, based on previously agreed steps, would significantly increase economic opportunities and strengthen security for Israelis and Palestinians alike.”
2015-09-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7521 (2015) · source
“Against this backdrop, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has left an indelible scar on the people and landscape of the region. Frustration, fear and violence have continued to spiral, undermining belief in finding a way out of the impasse. Over the past three months, the Middle East Quartet envoys have actively consulted with Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the League of Arab States, the Gulf Cooperation Council and key international partners on how to preserve the two-State solution and establish conditions for the parties to return to meaningful negotiations. All of our discussions have highlighted the region's determination to play a constructive role in resolving the conflict. But the message from all could not be more clear. Patience is running out.”
2015-09-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7521 (2015) · source
“Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has stated that his Government will use all means to maintain the status quo and law and order at the compound. As the Middle East faces a vicious tide of terror and extremism, such serious provocations have the potential to ignite violence well beyond the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem. I urge all political, community and religious leaders to ensure that visitors and worshippers demonstrate restraint and respect for the sanctity of the area. All sides have a responsibility to refrain from provocative actions and rhetoric. It is imperative that the historic status quo be preserved, in line with the agreements between Israel and His Majesty the King of Jordan, as Custodian of the Muslim holy sites in Jerusalem.”
2015-09-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7521 (2015) · source
“The Muslim Waqf reported that during this period its guards, for the first time, were not allowed in the compound and that three of its staff membes had been injured. At least 60 others were injured in related fighting. This pattern of clashes has continued with varying intensity for three days in the Al-Aqsa compound/ Temple Mount and the Old City of Jerusalem. It comes after sweeping restrictions on entry into the compound that Israel applied beginning on 26 August. Since then, the Government has decreed an entry ban for members of Muslim and some Jewish groups considered to be extremist. These latest incidents have echoed widely and have been condemned across the Muslim world and beyond, including by Palestinian President Abbas.”
2015-09-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7521 (2015) · source
“Mr. Mladenov: Let me begin by wishing all our Jewish colleagues and their families "shanah tovah" on the occasion of Rosh Hashanah. I would also like to wish "eid mubarak" to all our Muslim colleagues who will celebrate Eid al-Adha next week. I begin my briefing today with grave concern over the violence and continuing clashes in and around the Old City of Jerusalem. On the morning of 13 September, the Israeli police entered the area outside the Al-Aqsa Mosque in what they said was an operation to head off attempts by extremists to disrupt visits by Jews and non-Muslim tourists. As Palestinian youth sought to barricade themselves in the Mosque, clashes ensued. According to an official statement by the Israeli police, pipe bombs, flares and stones had been stockpiled by the protestors.”
2015-09-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7521 (2015) · source
“A comprehensive agreement will require committed engagement with key Arab States, including through the Arab Peace Initiative. The Secretary- General stands ready to support both sides in order to overcome their divisions and to rise to the challenge of forging a path forward towards a peaceful future. In conclusion, let me place on record my deep appreciation for the support that the Security Council and the Secretariat have given on the ground to the excellent team of the Office of the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process. I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome Mr. Robert Piper of Australia as the new Deputy Special Coordinator, who will also serve as the Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“Let me return to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and to reiterate our collective resolve to prevent a further deterioration of the situation, to uphold the two- State solution and to create the conditions for a return to meaningful negotiations. Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Abbas recently spoke and reaffirmed their desire for peace. That is a welcome sign, but words need to be translated into concrete and sustained actions on the ground. Let me also be abundantly clear: measures undertaken to improve the situation must not be considered an end unto themselves, but part of a broader political framework with the goal of achieving a final-status agreement. Now is the time to act decisively to reverse the growing perception that the two-State solution is on life support and that it is slowly dying a death by a thousand cuts.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“We encourage both parties to continue to make effective use of the liaison and coordination mechanisms of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. I am deeply concerned about the current unprecedented financial crisis at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). If the current $100 million gap is not closed in the next weeks, there is a serious risk that UNRWA schools - which educate 500,000 children throughout the Middle East - will not open. That will have grave implications for Palestinian refugee children in Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria, and for the stability and security of a region already in turmoil. I urge donors to step up support for UNRWA at this critical time.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“In Lebanon, concerns are growing that political differences are preventing the effective functioning of State institutions, despite Prime Minister Salam's commendable efforts to run the Government. There has been no progress in efforts to end the presidential vacuum. The Secretary-General's Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Sigrid Kaag, continues to urge Lebanon's leaders to put the country's stability and national interests ahead ofpartisan politics and elect a President without further delay. Meanwhile, the situation along the Lebanese border with Syria has remained stable, with the Lebanese Armed Forces continuing their operations to prevent the infiltration of armed extremist groups from Syria. In the south, the situation along the Blue Line has remained generally calm, despite almost daily Israeli overflights over Lebanese territory.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“Following consultations with Syrian, regional and international parties, next week the Secretary-General and his Special Envoy Staffan de Mistura will brief the Security Council on their recommendations for moving the political track forward. In Yemen, Special Envoy Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed is extending his good offices to all parties to restart negotiations on a political transition. In Libya, the United Nations remains engaged in facilitating talks aimed at ending the current political and security crisis through the formation of a Government of national accord. In Iraq, the United Nations is working to promote political dialogue in the hopes of encouraging national reconciliation.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“That gap cannot be closed through fiscal measures alone, and I urge donors to rapidly scale up their direct budget support. In that respect, it is also important to revive the functioning of the Israeli-Palestinian joint economic committee. While it is first and foremost up to the Palestinian authorities to take the lead, the United Nations stands ready to support the President, the Government and all factions in their efforts to reunite the West Bank and Gaza, in line with the intra-Palestinian unity agreement on3 April 2014. Palestine is one, and the United Nations will work determinedly to advance unity through its legitimate institutions. Allow me to briefly turn to the rest of the region and to note that the United Nations broad engagement continued during the reporting period.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“The Secretary- General joins the United States and the European Union in expressing deep concern about the demolition and displacement plans for Susiya. My Deputy Special Coordinator visited the community earlier today. We hope that the ongoing dialogue between the authorities and the herding community will protect the rights of the persons affected. Against that backdrop, intra-Palestinian talks to form a national unity Government have faltered. I note the efforts of President Abbas and Prime Minister Hamdallah to reshuffle the current Government, and call on them to proceed without delay to appointing the new ministers. The reshuffling comes at a particularly sensitive time, as the Palestinian Authority faces significant financial challenges - including a 2015 budget deficit of approximately $500 million in 2015.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“Two members of the Israeli security forces were stabbed and injured, one seriously. Clashes between Palestinians and Israeli civilians in the West Bank also continued, resulting in the death of one Israeli and injury to eight Israelis and nine Palestinians, including one child. Just as such incidents contribute to the lack of hope and anger, which feed a continuing cycle of violence and highlight the imperative to seek a resolution to the conflict, so too do the demolitions and displacement in the West Bank. On 12 July, Israel announced that it would seek to execute demolition orders of structures in the Palestinian village of Susiya, in Area C. That comes ahead of a hearing scheduled for 3 August on a directly related planning-approval process.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“Turning to the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, while the frequency of security incidents decreased as compared with last month, the situation remained tense. Israeli security forces conducted some 186 search-and- arrest operations, resulting in the arrest of some 300 Palestinians. Meanwhile, Palestinian security forces also arrested more than 100 people in the West Bank. I continue to be concerned by the situation of Palestinian prisoners held in Israel, including those on hunger strike. All those held in administrative detention should be promptly charged and tried in a court of law, or released without delay. In total, during the reporting period 50 Palestinians were injured and four were shot and killed by Israeli security forces, including two at checkpoints near Nablus and Ramallah.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“Given that development, I take this opportunity to once again urge donors to fulfil their pledges, in particular those allocated to housing construction and to addressing Gaza's urgent energy and water needs. I also welcome the recent agreement to install an additional scanner for containers at the Kerem Shalom crossing. Thiat should enable a substantial increase in exports from, and imports into, Gaza. The lifting of the Gaza closures within the framework of resolution 1860 (2009) remains an important objective for the United Nations. Absent that, the United Nations continues to work with Israeli and Palestinian authorities to support vital efforts to rebuild the lives of people in Gaza.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“The Secretary-General calls upon all actors in Gaza to provide information as to the possible whereabouts and conditions oftwo Israeli civilians who entered Gaza sometime over the past year and remain unaccounted for, as well as to take prompt action to facilitate their safe return to their families. Those, and other incidents, underscore the fragile dynamics within Gaza that, without positive change, will continue to provide fertile ground for extremism to flourish. Last month, the Palestinian Authority and Israel reached a welcome agreement on a new mechanism to allow Palestinians in Gaza access to needed construction material for the reconstruction of fully destroyed homes and for new construction. Close to 700 families have already been cleared, and over 120 of them have purchased the required construction materials.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“Gaza's painstaking emergence from last summer's conflict is undermining belief among the population that genuine progress can be achieved. The activities of Salafi jihadists and other extremist groups are a cause for concern, not only in Gaza but also in neighbouring Sinai, where there are reports of their active support of militants on the Egyptian side of the border. On 18 July, six cars were blown up in Gaza City. Palestinian Salafist militants launched a rocket at Israel on 16 July, which exploded in an open area near Ashkelon. In response, Israel conducted four airstrikes against militant infrastructure targets in Gaza. Militants also fired a rocket from the Sinai on 3 July, which landed in Israel close to the Egyptian border. All of that highlights the potential for violence to expand beyond the borders of the Sinai.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“The Secretary-General stands ready to work with the Security Council and with our partners in the Middle East Quartet on a reinvigorated effort to create the conditions for the return to meaningful negotiations. In that context, I note the proposed establishment of an international support group that could contribute to such efforts. In the past month, as part of an active outreach effort, Quartet envoys engaged constructively with Egypt, Jordan and the League ofArab States. Itake this opportunity to encourage the leadership of Israel to endorse the Arab Peace Initiative as an important contribution to a resolution of the conflict. The date of 8 July marked the one-year anniversary of the outbreak of conflict between Israel and Hamas.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“Iurge the authorities to reconsider that action. Settlements are illegal under international law and undermine the very essence of the viability of a future Palestinian State. Meanwhile, the Palestinian people rightly expect their leaders to act to advance unity and empower their Government to take control of the border crossings in Gaza, implement civil service integration, pay public-sector salaries and ensure that the governance framework between the West Bank and Gaza is integrated under a single authority. Those efforts will pave the way for much-delayed elections to take place. I call on all Palestinian groups to avoid in-fighting and find common ground on the basis of nonviolence and reconciliation in order to achieve national unity, which is critical for the two-State solution.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“I welcome the recent decision by Israel to add 8,000 new work permits for Palestinians from the West Bank, bringing the number of permits issued for employment in Israel to a new high of approximately 60,000. That and other similar initiatives should be sustained and expanded, while much more needs to be done for improving the quality of life for Palestinians. Unilateral actions in the West Bank - including settlement construction, so-called legalization of outposts, demolitions and evictions - must stop. While settlement expansion has slowed of late, planning for related infrastructure has not ceased. I am concerned by recent reports about the imminent approval of new residential units in the occupied West Bank. Such a decision would inevitably damage the prospects for peace and increase the risk for political escalation.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“In the current environment of mistrust, we in the international community must work with Israelis and Palestinians alike to create the conditions on the ground, regionally and internationally, that will facilitate a return to meaningful negotiations on the basis of an agreed framework and within a reasonable time frame. Both parties must undertake steps on the ground that demonstrate their continued commitment to a two-State solution, including through the implementation of existing agreements and by avoiding unilateral actions. Advancing the two-State solution requires a fundamental change in policy with regard to the occupied Palestinian territory.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“Despite continuing security coordination in the West Bank, today the two sides are further apart from that goal than ever. Support for the two-State solution among both Palestinians and Israelis is fading away. The current situation on the ground is not sustainable, as the two-State solution continues to be under threat, including from settlement construction, security incidents, occupation-related violence and the lack of Palestinian unity. In the absence of a political process, the rise of violent extremism and terrorism in the region presents a danger as much to the legitimate aspirations of Palestinians for statehood as to the security of Israel.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“Mr. Mladenov: Let me begin by extending my warmest wishes to all of our Muslim colleagues and their families on the occasion of Bid Al-Fitr and the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan. In a region currently torn by religious radicalism, age-old sectarianrivalries andgeopoliticalrealignments, one conflict has endured for over 65 years. Some see it as the core problem in the region; others dismiss it as unrelated to the current turmoil. Either way, the Israeli- Palestinian conflict is increasingly entangled in the tectonic shifts of the Middle East. Given the region's massive transformation, it is imperative - perhaps more than ever before - that a permanent settlement be found, based on the concept of two States, Israel and a sovereign, contiguous and viable Palestine, living side by side in peace, security and mutual recognition.”
2015-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7490 (2015) · source
“Any resolution will require a comprehensive regional solution - conceivably with support from the reinvigorated Quartet - that includes greater engagement with key Arab states. However, while the international community has a critical responsibility to support a peace process, a lasting solution can be achieved only by the parties themselves. I thank you, Madam President, for this opportunity to address the Council. I look forward to working with you, and to your guidance on the way forward. Allow me to place on record my gratitude to my predecessor, Robert Serry, for his tireless efforts in this position. I also want to thank the excellent team at the Office of the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process and here in the Secretariat, without whom our work in the field would not be possible.”
2015-05-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7446 (2015) · source
“Those developments have the potential to heighten tensions and jeopardize the ceasefire between the two countries. In conclusion, let me return briefly to the Israeli- Palestinian conflict, as the coming period will be critical to the future of the peace process. The United Nations has repeatedly warned that maintaining the status quo is not tenable. It will inexorably lead to the continued erosion of living conditions for Palestinians and Israelis alike, and it will undermine the security and stability of all. My introductory meetings clearly demonstrated that, despite the prolonged absence of a political horizon, the sometimes poisonous rhetoric of incitement and the destructive actions of those seeking to undermine a return to talks, there remains a steadfast desire and determination to achieve an enduring agreement.”
2015-05-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7446 (2015) · source
“Israeli violations of Lebanese airspace continued on an almost daily basis. On the Golan, clashes occurred between the Syrian armed forces and armed members of the opposition, as did heavy fighting between the different armed groups in the area of separation. Between 24 April and 5 May, fire from the Bravo side as a result of such fighting impacted across the ceasefire line. On 24 April, an Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) missile-launching unit fired four missiles eastwards, one of which crossed the ceasefire line. A couple of days later, the IDF informed the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force that four persons carrying equipment had crossed the ceasefire line from the Bravo side and had been killed by Israeli security forces as they approached the technical fence.”
2015-05-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7446 (2015) · source
“The Lebanese-Syrian border remains impacted by incidents and infiltration attempts by armed extremist groups, particularly as a result of the fighting in the Qalamoun region. The Lebanese Armed Forces have made considerable efforts to secure the border, with support from the international community. On 20 April, Lebanon received its first shipment ofmilitary equipment from France, financed by a $3 billion grant from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This and other contributions by Member States are both necessary and welcome. The area of operations of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) remained generally calm despite the volatile situation in the Golan Heights. In their ongoing engagement with UNIFIL, both parties maintained their commitment to the cessation of hostilities and to the stability of the Blue Line.”
2015-05-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7446 (2015) · source
“As of 25 May, the country will have been without a president for one year. This vacuum undermines Lebanon's ability to address the challenges it faces and jeopardizes the functioning of State institutions. Members of Parliament should fulfil their constitutional obligation to elect a President without further delay. With almost 1.2 million registered Syrian refugees in Lebanon forming the highest per capita concentration of refugees in the world, we again call on the international community to urgently fulfil existing pledges and increase and expedite support to Lebanon as a matter of priority. It is important that the Government and United Nations counterparts work together to promote effective management of the refugee presence in line with international humanitarian and human rights law.”
2015-05-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7446 (2015) · source
“In addition, 85 of the 167 projects submitted and funded by the international community and the private sector have been approved; eight of those projects are currently under way. All of these developments are positive but far from sufficient to address Gaza's reconstruction needs. The United Nations is working closely with the Israeli Ministry of Defence's Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, the Palestinian Minister of Civil Affairs and donors to finalize arrangements to speed up reconstruction. I take this opportunity to thank all counterparts for their constructive engagement on these matters. Turning briefly to Lebanon, Special Coordinator Kaag and members of the International Support Group for Lebanon met today in Beirut with Prime Minister Tammam Salam to discuss the current situation in the country.”
2015-05-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7446 (2015) · source
“Palestine is one, and the United Nations will work with determination to advance unity through its legitimate institutions. The ultimate objective of the United Nations in Gaza is to see the lifting of all closures within the framework of Security Council resolution 1860 (2009). In the absence of such a fundamental change, the temporary Gaza Reconstruction Mechanism is the only option currently available to facilitate the entry of material and to enable the implementation of large-scale projects that can bring reconstruction, jobs and stability. I can report that, as at 19 May, close to 85,000 ofthe 100,000 households in need of construction materials to repair their homes had received them.”
2015-05-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7446 (2015) · source
“The United Nations also stands ready to work with all stakeholders and support the Government in mobilizing the necessary resources for this process. A comprehensive reconciliation must include the Government of national consensus resuming control over the crossings of Gaza into Israel and Egypt. This is key to allowing more movement of goods and people and to the eventual reopening of the crossings. The responsibility for addressing these issues lies first and foremost with the Palestinian authorities. But it also rests partly with the United Nations and the international community, which must empower the Government to take up its leadership role in Gaza, including through the fulfilment of the donor pledges made in Cairo last October. What is clear is that no approach that divides Gaza and the West Bank should be supported.”
2015-05-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7446 (2015) · source
“Three militants were also killed in separate incidents where smuggling tunnels collapsed. Without genuine Palestinian reconciliation and unity, all efforts to improve the situation in Gaza will face major difficulties. On 19 April, a delegation of Palestinian ministers travelled to Gaza to begin a process to reintegrate public-sector employees, tens of thousands of whom have not received salaries for over a year. Discussions, however, broke down the following day. Despite this setback, I welcome the determination of Prime Minister Hamdallah and his efforts to find a solution to the problem of public-sector employees in Gaza. His commitment that no one will be left behind is an important guarantee. I encourage all factions to support these efforts.”
2015-05-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7446 (2015) · source
“Three rockets were fired at Israel from Gaza on 23 April: one exploded in an open area in Israel and the other two fell short and exploded inside Gaza. On 3 May, militants fired another rocket which hit inside Gaza near the security fence, and Palestinian militants also test-fired 19 rockets at the sea. Thankfully, no injuries or damage were reported in any of these incidents, all of which we condemn. In response to the rocket firing, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted an airstrike in Gaza that damaged a Hamas military site, but no casualties were reported. The IDF also reportedly shot and injured nine Palestinians in Gaza: three fishermen whose boats were fired upon by the Israeli navy and six Palestinians shot while approaching the Gaza border fence.”
2015-05-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7446 (2015) · source
“Gaza is desperate and Gaza is angry: angry at the blockade; angry at the closure of the Rafah crossing; angry at Hamas, including for imposing an illegal "solidarity tax"; angry at the donors for not honouring their commitments to reconstruction - at everyone. There is a clear moral and humanitarian imperative not just for the United Nations and the international community, but primarily for the Israeli and the Palestinian authorities to prevent the implosion of Gaza. I particularly call on the factions on the ground to ensure that Gaza remains peaceful. Despite the fact that the agreed ceasefire, brokered by Egypt, continues to hold, some security incidents have persisted during the reporting period.”
2015-05-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7446 (2015) · source
“And on 10 May, an Israeli court ordered the demolition of eight buildings in the East Jerusalem neighbourhood of Semiramis. The United Nations once again urges Israel to cease such demolitions and displacements. The United Nations also remains concerned about the recent moves to relocate Bedouin communities near Abu Nwar in the politically sensitive El area of the West Bank that may be linked to further settlement construction. Turning to Gaza, I cannot but recall the shock of my first, very brief tour of the destruction of the Shujaiya neighbourhood. No one - I repeat, no one - can remain untouched by the scale of devastation, the slow pace of reconstruction, and the vast needs that exist in order to rebuild lives and livelihoods.”
2015-05-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7446 (2015) · source
“On 25 April, a Palestinian man was suspected of intentionally ramming his car into a group of Israeli policemen in East Jerusalem, injuring four. On 11 May, an Israeli was injured in a reported stabbing attack near a West Bank checkpoint. And on 14 May, three Israeli youths were struck by a car driven by a Palestinian man close to Gush Etzion. Despite repeated objections, the Israeli Government continues to demolish Palestinian homes and structures. During the reporting period, a total of 15 structures, which contained 33 residences, were demolished, leading to the displacement of 25 people, including 14 children. On 4 May, the Israeli High Court of Justice rejected a request by Palestinians from the Area C village of Susiya to freeze demolitions in the village.”
2015-05-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7446 (2015) · source
“There should be no illusions about the impact of these unilateral actions. They not only undermine the collective hopes of those longing for a just resolution of the conflict, but they again call into question the viability of achieving peace based on the vision of two States. Settlement activity is illegal under international law, and I urge the new Israeli Government to reverse these decisions and refrain from such action in future. IntheoccupiedWestBank,includingEastJerusalem, tensions continued as Israeli security forces conducted some 265 search-and-arrest operations, resulting in the arrests of 294 Palestinians. In separate incidents in late April, three Palestinian men, including a 17-year- old boy, were shot and killed after reportedly stabbing and injuring Israeli security officers at checkpoints in Hebron and Ma'ale Adumin.”
2015-05-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7446 (2015) · source