YouSaid · the spoken record

Pascoe

lines on the record: 957
first: 2007-03-14
most recent: 2012-04-23
sittings or episodes: 55
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

“We also welcome Egyptian efforts to complete construction of a new border boundary. We encourage intensified cooperation among relevant parties to ensure that legitimate traffic into and out of Gaza at all crossing points takes place, and that concerns regarding alleged smuggling are addressed. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains of grave concern, although there has been an improvement in the volume of goods entering the Strip. In the past month, over 1,400 trucks have crossed into Gaza, 95 per cent of them carrying commercial supplies of basic items. That is an improvement from previous months, and we hope for further easing in the near future. Fuel imports have continued to enter from Israel, although shortages remain in key sectors such as health.”
2008-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5859 (2008) · source
“These incidents were followed by a barrage of rockets fired by Islamic Jihad from Gaza into southern Israel. We support Egyptian efforts to bring about a cessation of Violence, particularly in Gaza, and to facilitate a gradual reopening of crossings into Gaza in coordination with the parties. In this regard, we have 3 taken note of the recent reduction in violence in and around Gaza and the more regular import of supplies across the crossings. That is a positive but extremely fragile development. We are acutely conscious of the potential for even more deadly episodes of violence to occur very quickly and of the danger that that poses for the security of the Palestinians, Israel and Egypt and for the political process. We urge all parties to act with a sense of responsibility and to cooperate with the Egyptian efforts.”
2008-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5859 (2008) · source
“On 6 March, eight Israeli students, including four children, were killed in a savage shooting attack at a Jewish seminary in West Jerusalem by a Palestinian from East Jerusalem. That was the first major attack in Jerusalem in almost four years and was strongly condemned by the Secretary-General. On 16 March, dozens of Israelis rioted in the neighbourhood of the killer's home in East Jerusalem. The stabbing of an Israeli in the Old City on 18 March further contributed to the tense atmosphere. During the reporting period, IDF incursions took place in several West Bank towns, resulting in the arrests of dozens of Palestinians for alleged militant activity. In two separate incidents targeting Islamic Jihad on 12 March, four militants were killed in Bethlehem and another militant was killed in Tulkarem.”
2008-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5859 (2008) · source
“The Secretary-General condemned the excessive and disproportionate use of force and the killing of civilians and also condemned indiscriminate rocket fire and called for an immediate cessation of such rocket attacks. We reiterate that all parties must comply with international humanitarian law. Regrettably, no party has conducted law-based, independent, transparent and accessible investigations into the killings of civilians and other human rights violations, made the findings public and held perpetrators accountable, as called for by the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Since that briefing, Violence has also spread to Jerusalem and the West Bank. On 2 March, a Palestinian child was shot and killed by the IDF during a protest against the situation in Gaza.”
2008-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5859 (2008) · source
“In total, 124 Palestinians, including 36 children, were killed in IDF operations, and 359 were injured. Thirteen Israelis, including 4 children, were killed by Palestinian 08-28218 militants, and 55 were injured. Tensions remain high, despite an observable reduction in Violence in and around Gaza in the past few weeks. The Council will recall that when it met in emergency session on 1 March, the violence in and around Gaza was at its height. IDF operation Hot Winter lasted five days and caused dozens of civilian casualties, including the deaths of 31 children, while Hamas rocket attacks extended as far as the Israeli city of Ashkelon, bringing nearly a quarter of a million Israeli civilians within rocket range of Gaza.”
2008-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5859 (2008) · source
“Mr. Pascoe: Since the last monthly briefing to the Security Council, I regret that the continuing efforts to advance the political process were once again overshadowed by violence, high numbers of civilian casualties and a lack of concrete improvements on the ground. The reporting period saw major escalations in violence, with a heavy Israeli air and land military assault in Gaza; the firing of rockets and mortars at Israel - over 390 during the reporting period - including the use this month of longer-range rockets; an attack on a Jewish school in West Jerusalem; Israel Defense Forces (IDF) operations throughout the West Bank targeting alleged militants; and clashes between the IDF and protesting Palestinians in West Bank cities, including in East Jerusalem.”
2008-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5859 (2008) · source
“However, it is equally critical that the situation on the ground should stabilize and improve, in order to sustain the Annapolis process. The Secretary-General will continue to work closely with Quartet partners, regional countries and this Council towards implementation of the Road Map and a two-State solution that would result in the coexistence in peace and security of the State of Israel and the State of Palestine, in fulfilment of resolutions 242 (1967), 338 (1973), 1397 (2002) and 1515 (2003) and the Arab Peace Initiative.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“The Secretary-General has strongly condemned the grave security incidents during this last month and has called for the perpetrators to be brought to justice. In the North, the United Nations system, under the operational guidance of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, continues to provide humanitarian assistance and to undertake emergency rehabilitation initiatives in the Palestinian refugee camp of Nahr el-Bared, where the Lebanese army confronted the Fatah al-Islam armed group from May to September 2007. The Secretary-General fully supports the efforts of Prime Minister Olmert and President Abbas to reach a peace agreement in 2008 and encourages them to make tangible progress on all core issues, including final status issues.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“There have been no claims of responsibility for these incidents. The situation in the UNIFIL area of operations has remained mostly quiet but tense, particularly in the wake of several incidents that occurred on 7 and 8January, on which the Council has already been briefed by Under-Secretary-General Guehenno. UNIFIL and the LAF are continuing their investigations into the 8 January attack against a UNIFIL vehicle. Similarly, the investigation into the 8 January rocket firings against the northern Israeli town of Shelomi is continuing. There have been no claims of responsibility made. The Secretary-General issued statements condemning both incidents. On 21 January, the Lebanese Armed Forces fired on two Israeli aircraft within Lebanese airspace inside UNIFIL's area of operations.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“On 25 January, Lebanon suffered yet another targeted assassination when an explosion in Beirut killed Captain Wissam Bid and Adjutant Osama Mereib of the Internal Security Forces and four other people and injured up to twenty others. On 15 January, a car bomb explosion in an industrial area of Beirut killed three passers-by and wounded dozens. A diplomatic vehicle from the United States Embassy in Lebanon was also impacted in the bombing and both occupants were wounded. Aside from attacks on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), this is the first attack on a diplomatic target in Beirut since the days of Lebanon's civil war. In addition, early in the morning of 21 January, a hand grenade was detonated in a residential area of Beirut. The explosion caused material damage but no injuries.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“Political uncertainty has been exacerbated further by the increased frequency of grave security incidents. On 27 January, demonstrations began in a southern suburb of Beirut, apparently to protest interruptions to the electricity supply in the area. The unrest led to the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and security services in the area in an attempt to restore calm. Demonstrations soon spread to the towns of Tyre and Khiam in southern Lebanon and to north-eastern parts of the Bekaa valley. By nightfall, seven people had been killed and up to 40 wounded. The Lebanese army has announced that it will investigate the deaths.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“Construction work on the barrier continues within occupied Palestinian territory in deviation from the Green Line and contrary to the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice. Turning to Lebanon's political and security developments continue to be a cause for serious concern. On the political front, Lebanon's parliamentary session on the election of a president has been delayed for the thirteenth time, until 11 February. Despite the diplomatic efforts led by the League of Arab States, the parties are no closer to reaching an agreement. The presidential vacuum has persisted since 24 November and has led to a situation that is dangerous and ultimately unsustainable. Lebanon's leaders must act now and find a way to bridge their positions and return the country to normal political activity.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“In that regard, Palestinian Authority security forces continue to work to maintain law and order, including disarming and arresting militants. We encourage the Palestinian Authority to continue and deepen its efforts to meet its phase-I road map obligations on security, and call for improved cooperation to support those efforts. The Secretary-General has reaffirmed the United Nations position on the illegality of settlements. Phase I of the road map requires the Government of Israel to freeze all settlement activity, including "natural growth". We call on Israel to act to meet its obligations to halt settlement activity, dismantle all outposts erected since March 2001 and reopen Palestinian institutions in East Jerusalem.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“That mechanism will be open to all donors and will combine investment and recurrent support more comprehensively than TIM. currently does. Quartet Representative Blair continues his efforts to secure implementation of projects to support Palestinian economic revitalization. The United Nations country team met earlier this week to strengthen interagency coordination, particularly in support of PRDP. Palestinian reform efforts and the assistance of donors cannot make a sustained impact without a significant easing of closure, in accordance with the Agreement on Movement and Access. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports that there are 563 obstacles to Palestinian movement in the West Bank. It is Vital that those closures be eased in the context of increased mobility, security and confidence.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“The chairs stressed the importance of tangible and visible changes on the ground through implementing the Palestinian Reform and Development Plan (PRDP) without delay. The total amount of aid pledged has reached $7.7 billion. A significant number of donors intend to transfer their aid to the single treasury account of the Palestinian Authority. Co-chairs have agreed to meet again in March. At the request of Prime Minister Fayyad, the World Bank is putting in place arrangements for a new multi-donor trust fund to channel donor support to the Palestinian Authority's recurrent operating budget. The European Commission has announced that the Palestinian European aid mechanism, designed in close consultation with the Palestinian Authority, will be launched on 1 February as a follow-up to the Temporary International Mechanism (TIM).”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“He stressed that the point of departure for permanent status negotiations was "an end to the occupation that began in 1967", and made a number of public observations regarding borders, refugees, Jerusalem and security. He also issued strong calls for both sides to fulfil their commitments under the road map, including for removal of outposts and a settlement freeze, and for action against violence and terrorism. United States General William Fraser has been appointed to lead United States efforts to monitor implementation of phase I of the road map in accordance with the Annapolis joint understanding. The Paris donor conference co-chairs - the European Commission, Norway, France and Quartet Representative Tony Blair - met last week to follow up on commitments made by participants in Paris.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“In last week's briefing, the United Nations condemned the firing of rockets against civilians in southern Israel and called on all parties to abide by international law and not endanger civilians. The United Nations has also clearly stated its deep concerns over Israeli military actions, including targeted killings and the grave humanitarian consequences of Israel's closure policy. As such, I will not repeat those statements of position at this time. 3 On a more positive note, the parties began negotiations on the core issues during the reporting period. United States President Bush visited the region and committed himself to doing all he could to ensure that a peace agreement is achieved in 2008.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“I take this opportunity to remind the Council of the Secretary-General's statement of 19 September, in which he noted his concern for the 1.4 million residents of Gaza - including the old, the young and the sick - who are already suffering from the impact of prolonged closure, and said that they should not be punished for the unacceptable actions of militants and extremists. We note that levels of Violence have been significantly reduced in the past week in Gaza and southern Israel. We remain concerned, however, that 77 rockets and mortars were fired in the past week by Palestinian militants and that there were also four IDF incursions and air strikes on Gaza.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“During the reporting period, for example, the entire city of Nablus was placed under curfew for three days in early January. There were also a number of incidents of Violence in the West Bank, including in occupied East Jerusalem, where Palestinian militants attacked Israeli border police and religious seminary students. Today, Israel's Supreme Court declared legal the reductions to the fuel and electricity supply of Gaza. The ruling effectively approves the decision adopted by the Government on 19 September 2007 to impose sanctions on the Gaza Strip in response to continued rocket and mortar fire on Israel.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“We call on all parties to work urgently for the controlled reopening of the crossings in and out of the Strip for both humanitarian reasons and commercial flows, in accordance with the 08-22132 provisions of the relevant international agreements related to access and movement concluded in November 2005. Such flows should include materials and equipment to enable United Nations rehousing and rubble removal projects to resume. The United Nations stands ready to assist efforts to implement the Palestinian Authority's proposals in any way it can. It has been a month of heavy bloodshed; a total of 108 Palestinians have been killed and 229 injured in conflict with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Three Israelis have been killed and 24 injured by Palestinian militants. IDF incursions into West Bank cities and towns continue on a regular basis.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“At the current level of fuel supply, electricity cuts will continue, in some areas for as much as eight hours a day. Some water wells are functioning again after being reconnected to electricity and functioning generators, but UNICEF reports that 40 per cent of Gazans still have limited access to safe water. The crisis adds new urgency to the proposal of the Palestinian Authority to operate the Gaza crossings. We reiterate the Secretary-General's strong support for those proposals, and welcome the recent Arab League and European Council resolutions in that respect. We also welcome the diplomatic efforts currently under way on that issue.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“WFP distributions in some areas of Gaza have already run out of sugar and salt, and UNRWA reported that its stocks of canned meat would run out within a week. United Nations Palestinian staff with permits to exit Gaza are not currently allowed to do so, resulting in the hampering of United Nations operations. Fuel imports from Israel resumed on 22 January, with a total of 1.566 million litres of industrial diesel going into Gaza from Israel for the week ending 27 January. It is expected that 2.2 million litres of industrial fuel will be allowed this week; however, just over 3 million litres are necessary to avoid power cuts, and reserves of up to 20 million litres are necessary to ensure normal functioning of the power plant.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“We support Egypt's continuing efforts to find a peaceful and orderly solution along the border. From 18 January, when Israel imposed a comprehensive closure, until yesterday, only 32 truckloads of goods entered Gaza, including 10 from a Jordanian donation. That compares to a daily average of 93 trucks during the first two weeks of 2008 and of 250 trucks before June 2007. There is now a backlog of approximately 224 United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), World Health Organization and World Food Programme (WFP) trucks, although we understand that 35 trucks of the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross have been scheduled to go into Gaza today.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“Since then, hundreds of thousands of Gazans have crossed the border, and many who had earlier been stranded in Egypt have returned to Gaza. Following efforts by Egyptian security forces to close the border on 25 January, Hamas toppled additional sections of the border fence. A number of Egyptian security personnel sustained injuries when fired upon by Palestinian militants, but they exercised restraint, and the situation remained, by and large, calm. By 29 January, shops in the border area had largely run out of goods, and Egyptian forces took steps to begin sealing the border. In Egypt, Palestinians purchased food, medicine and other supplies that are mostly unavailable in Gaza due to closure. There have also been claims, which we 08-22132 are unable to verify, of weapons and explosives entering Gaza.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“Mr. Pascoe: This past month has underscored the gap between the aspirations of the political process and the grim realities of the situation on the ground in the Middle East. Continued efforts to progress along the Annapolis track, with the beginning of negotiations on core issues and a visit by the President of the United States of America, George W. Bush, were overshadowed by an intensification of violence in Gaza and southern Israel, combined with periods of total closure of the Gaza Strip and increased humanitarian suffering and violations of human rights. Since I last briefed the Council, on 22 January, there have been significant developments in the crisis in Gaza. On 23 January, Palestinian militants destroyed entire sections of the border fence with Egypt.”
2008-01-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5827 (2008) · source
“Finally, I wish to reiterate the deep commitment of the United Nations to the welfare of the civilian population affected by the conflict. The work being performed by United Nations agencies, as well as non- governmental organizations, in Gaza is one of the few things that stand between the current crisis conditions and an even more dramatic deterioration of the situation. Special Coordinator Serry and Commissioner-General AbuZayd of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East were in Gaza last week at the height of the 08-21369 violence, and the Special Coordinator also visited the Israeli town of Sederot as it came under increasing rocket attack. The United Nations will continue to do everything we can to ensure that civilians are protected and assisted, whatever the political environment.”
2008-01-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5824 (2008) · source
“The events of the past week have also underlined the ever-present potential for the Annapolis process to be undermined by the deterioration of the situation on the ground and, in particular, the continuing crisis in Gaza. Less than two weeks ago, the parties launched negotiations on core issues, and President Bush visited the region to underline his commitment to assisting them to reach a peace treaty in 2008 and to implement the first phase of the road map. The Quartet representatives and the entire international community are fully engaged in that effort in what should be a year of hope and opportunity for Israelis and Palestinians. Crisis management and containment in Gaza would seem to be a minimal requirement if that process is to be given a chance to succeed.”
2008-01-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5824 (2008) · source
“As the Secretary-General stated last September when the Israeli cabinet decided to intensify its closure measures, Israel must reconsider and cease its policy of pressuring the civilian population of Gaza for the unacceptable actions of militants. Collective penalties, let me recall, are prohibited under international law. In that context, I take this opportunity to reiterate the Secretary-General's strong support for the plan of Palestinian Authority President Abbas and Prime Minister Fayyad for the Authority to man crossings into Gaza, particularly Karni. Early implementation of that initiative should be a priority for the benefit of the civilian population of Gaza.”
2008-01-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5824 (2008) · source
“That could mean cuts of 8 to 10 hours every day in the mid- region of Gaza and every second day everywhere in other parts of the Strip. In addition, benzine is still not being allowed into Gaza causing widespread closure of petrol stations. Unless supplies are allowed in, the stocks of the World Food Programme (WFP), which relies on benzine, will be depleted by Thursday morning. The entry of commercial humanitarian supplies required to meet the total humanitarian needs of Gaza is still not permitted. In December, only 43.5 per cent of basic commercial food import needs were met. It is imperative that both commercial and international humanitarian assistance be allowed into Gaza.”
2008-01-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5824 (2008) · source
“Today, Israel reopened two crossings for fuel and the delivery of humanitarian supplies by international organizations. As of yet, it is not clear whether the crossings will stay open. We strongly urge Israel at a minimum to allow for the regular and unimpeded delivery of fuel and basic necessities. Approximately 600,000 litres of industrial fuel will be delivered today, with a target of 2.2 million litres throughout the week for use by hospitals, industrial vehicles, UNRWA operations and the power plant. The plant resumed operations at 11.30 am. local time this morning. However, allow me to underline that the humanitarian situation is still extremely fragile. The 2.2 million litres of fuel will only restore the electricity flow to what it was at the beginning of January.”
2008-01-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5824 (2008) · source
“Fifty per cent of bakeries were reported closed owing to a lack of electricity and shortages of flour and grain. Hospitals were running on generators, and two reduced their activities to intensive care units only. Thirty million litres of raw sewage was pumped into the Mediterranean Sea owing to the breakdown of sewage pumping equipment. Earlier today, Palestinian demonstrators who had tried to force open the Rafah border crossing were dispersed by Egyptian security forces, with injuries reported. The United Nations has been actively involved, through interventions of the Secretary-General, the United Nations Special Coordinator, Robert Serry, and the UNRWA Commissioner-General, Karen Koning AbuZayd, in seeking an urgent easing of the blanket closure of Gaza.”
2008-01-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5824 (2008) · source
“At a time when United Nations security procedures are evermore critical, the requests of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to import even bulletproof windows to protect its Gaza offices have been denied. 3 On 17 January, Israel augmented quantities of fuel allowed into Gaza pursuant to a petition before the Israeli High Court. However, on 18 January, as rocket fire intensified, Israel imposed a comprehensive closure of the Gaza Strip, halting the import of fuel, food and medical and relief items. The Gaza power plant, which supplies electricity to Gaza City and the middle camps, shut down on Sunday evening, leaving every area in Gaza except Rafah with daily power cuts of 8 to 12 hours a day. Approximately 40 per cent of the population did not have regular access to running water.”
2008-01-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5824 (2008) · source
“This is why the Secretary-General has repeatedly called on Israel to exercise maximum restraint. The Gaza crossings have remained largely closed since the Hamas takeover in June 2007, except for imports to meet minimal humanitarian needs. Compared with the already precarious first half of 2007, imports into Gaza have dropped 77 per cent, and exports from Gaza by 98 per cent. Most Palestinians cannot exit Gaza; exceptions are made for some students and humanitarian workers, and some - but not all - needy medical cases. Large United Nations construction projects, which could bring employment and housing to Gazans, including some left homeless by earlier IDF operations, are frozen because building materials are not available.”
2008-01-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5824 (2008) · source
“I must state firmly that the Israeli occupation - including with respect to Gaza - carries clear obligations under international law, including the Fourth Geneva Convention. We are cognizant of Israel's security concerns. We also take note that Israel stresses that in using military force it does not target civilians and claims that it takes care to avoid civilian casualties. However, Israel is obliged not to take disproportionate measures or endanger civilians, and must thoroughly investigate incidents leading to civilian casualties and ensure adequate accountability. I would also like to reiterate that the basic principled position of the United Nations in opposition to extra-judicial killings is compounded by the frequency with which such operations are carried out in densely populated civilian areas.”
2008-01-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5824 (2008) · source
“They have been a regular occurrence since well before Israel's disengagement, causing civilian casualties, damage, school closures and high levels of post-traumatic stress disorder. Over 100,000 08-21369 Israelis live within range of standard Qassam rocket fire. We are further concerned that IDF Corporal Gilad Shalit is still being held captive in Gaza and that Hamas continues to deny the International Committee of the Red Cross access, in contravention of international humanitarian law. We continue to be concerned by allegations of smuggling of weapons and materiel into Gaza. We equally call for strict observance of international humanitarian law by Israel and its armed forces.”
2008-01-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5824 (2008) · source
“local time, one rocket landed on an open field and three mortar shells have been fired; there have been no IDF incursions or operations. The situation, however, remains extremely fragile. The Secretary-General has expressed his deep concern over the bloodshed and has appealed for an immediate end to the violence. He has stressed the responsibilities of all parties to adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law and to not endanger civilians. Indiscriminate rocket and mortar firing towards civilian population centres and crossing points is totally unacceptable. We have and continue to condemn it unreservedly. Such attacks terrorize Israeli communities near Gaza, particularly in the town of Sderot. They also endanger humanitarian workers at crossing points.”
2008-01-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5824 (2008) · source
“Since then, over 150 rockets and mortar attacks have been launched at Israel by militants, injuring 11 Israelis, and a sniper attack killed an Ecuadorian national on a kibbutz in Israel. Forty-two Palestinians have been killed and 117 injured by IDF, which has launched 8 ground incursions, 15 air strikes and 10 surface-to-surface missiles in the past week. Among the dead are a number of Palestinian civilians, who have been killed in ground battles between IDF and militants and in Israeli air strikes and targeted killing operations. There has been a significant de-escalation in violence in the past few days, with a much lower level of rocket fire and IDF incursions. Since first light this morning until 2.00 pm.”
2008-01-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5824 (2008) · source
“Mr. Pascoe: The crisis in the Gaza Strip and southern Israel has escalated dramatically since last 08-21369 Tuesday, 15 January 2008. The precursor to this escalation has been daily rocket and mortar attacks on Israeli civilian residential areas by several militant groups from Gaza and regular Israel Defence Force (IDF) military attacks on and into Gaza. There are also the tight Israeli restrictions on crossings into Gaza for the stated purpose of bringing about a cessation of rocket fire. The IDF entered the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, 15 January, and were engaged by Hamas militants in a heavy battle, which included IDF air and tank operations. Hamas claimed responsibility for sniper and rocket attacks against Israel.”
2008-01-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5824 (2008) · source
“It will also be essential for the Quartet and Arab League partners to remain in close contact to support the bilateral process and to coordinate closely regarding the broader regional dimensions of peace, bearing in mind the importance of the Arab peace initiative. The Secretary-General and the United Nations will continue to work for a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in the Middle East, based on Security Council resolutions.”
2007-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5815 (2007) · source
“In addition, the request for the Israel Defense Forces to provide technical strike data on cluster munitions is still pending. The next few months are critical for the renewed peace process between Israel and the Palestinians. Solid progress will be essential in the bilateral negotiations. That, however, is unlikely to be achieved or to be sustainable without serious improvements on the ground. Donors must follow through on their commendable Paris commitments, and the parties must act to fulfil their responsibilities so that a new climate of confidence, security and physical mobility is established. The Quartet envoys will continue to meet to take stock of the situation in the important period ahead, and the Quartet principals have agreed to meet regularly in 2008 to review progress and provide support for the parties' efforts.”
2007-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5815 (2007) · source
“The current situation is dangerous and unsustainable. It is of fundamental importance for the Lebanese State that all Lebanese leaders seek a solution that enables presidential elections to take place immediately. That is all the more necessary given the continuing attacks on Lebanon's sovereignty and stability, most recently illustrated by the brutal assassination of General Francois el-Hajj of the Lebanese Armed Forces. In South Lebanon, the situation has remained calm. However, an increased number of Israeli air violations were recorded at the end of November. As noted in last month's briefing, overflights are violations of resolution 1701 (2006), and also undermine the credibility of both the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon and the Lebanese Armed Forces.”
2007-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5815 (2007) · source
“On 17 December, while in Paris for the Palestinian donor conference, the Secretary-General called a meeting on Lebanon attended by representatives of Egypt, France, Italy, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States, the European Union, the European Commission and the European Council. The statement following that meeting reaffirmed strong and non-negotiable support for Lebanon and its people. It urged that Parliament be allowed to convene immediately to fulfil its constitutional duties and insisted that outside Powers act in compliance with the decisions of the Security Council and fully respect Lebanon's Constitution and democratic institutions. The ongoing lack of agreement and the resultant constitutional void are matters of great concern.”
2007-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5815 (2007) · source
“Despite several initiatives and efforts by various parties to break the deadlock, the Lebanese have yet to reach agreement on that issue. As a result, and since the last briefing of the Council, there have been further postponements to the parliamentary session to elect the new president. The next session is currently scheduled for 22 December. The Secretary-General and his representatives in the region have been in close contact with Lebanese leaders, and more broadly with regional and international leaders, to try to find a solution to the prolonged political crisis.”
2007-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5815 (2007) · source
“There appears to be agreement in principle on the candidature of General Michel Suleiman for the presidency. However, the parties remain deeply divided on the next steps to bring about the election of General Suleiman, who is currently serving as the Commander of the Lebanese Army. The Lebanese Constitution requires that two years lapse before a State official can be elected president - and of course that would have to be changed. The opposition has stated that there must first be agreement on the composition of the new Government before the Parliament can meet to elect General Suleiman as President. The 14 March Coalition maintains that any such agreement should come after the election of the president.”
2007-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5815 (2007) · source
“As a measure of the current situation, a total of 77 trucks have left Gaza through Kerem Shalom since June - 7 left in August with potatoes and 66 in December with flowers and strawberries. At least 14 Palestinians have died after permission to exit Gaza for medical treatment was denied or delayed. Without the resumption of the regular flow of imports and exports, Gaza's socio-economic and humanitarian conditions will continue to deteriorate. I welcome Prime Minister Fayyad's stated willingness for the Palestinian Authority to man re- opened crossings, and call on all parties to take up this proposal with a sense of urgency and responsibility. Turning to Lebanon, the presidential election continues to be the focus of negotiations among Lebanese political leaders.”
2007-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5815 (2007) · source
“Only 13 basic categories of food and household items, medical supplies and some water sanitation equipment are being allowed into the Strip from Israel. Reductions in fuel announced on 28 October also continue. Cash money is unable to enter into Gaza owing to restrictions on the import of dollars and other currencies, except for specified disbursements, such as the salaries of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East and the Palestinian Authority. Exports from Gaza have virtually stopped since June. Members of the Council will recall that the November 2005 Agreement on Movement and Access, 3 designed to ensure a sustainable Gaza economy, set a target of 400 trucks per day exiting Gaza with exports.”
2007-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5815 (2007) · source
“The IDF has conducted deadly raids into the Gaza Strip, targeting militants allegedly responsible for rocket attacks. Islamic Jihad has threatened to resume suicide attacks inside Israel. The Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit is spending his nineteenth month in captivity in Gaza. Israel continues to express concerns about alleged smuggling of weapons and materiel into Gaza. In these volatile circumstances, we continue to urge full respect by all parties for international humanitarian law. The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip remains of grave concern. The crossings into Gaza continue to be restricted for people and goods - though a number of Gazans were successful in leaving through the Rafah crossing to participate in the Hajj to Mecca.”
2007-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5815 (2007) · source
“The insecurity facing civilians on both sides of the conflict is underscored by figures over the reporting period: 37 Palestinians were killed and 71 injured by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), 2Palestinians were killed and 21 injured in internal violence and 11 Israelis were injured by Palestinian militants. The worst violence took place in or emanated from Gaza, from which 216 rockets and mortars were fired by Palestinian militants, either at crossings points or at Israel. We condemn these indiscriminate attacks, which endanger civilians in Israeli communities adjacent to the Gaza Strip. They have caused injuries and damage and disrupted the lives of thousands of Israelis. These attacks also threaten the safety of humanitarian workers at the crossings.”
2007-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5815 (2007) · source
“This underscores both the progress being made and the continuing challenges facing the Palestinian Authority in asserting its control in the West Bank. There is a need for support to and reform of the Palestinian Authority security forces to ensure their effective performance. Continuing and enhanced security cooperation between Israel and the Palestinian security forces is also essential. According to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, obstacles to movement in the West Bank now stand at 563. Construction work on the barrier within occupied Palestinian territory, in deviation from the Green Line 07-65518 and in contravention of the International Court of Justice Advisory Opinion, continues.”
2007-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5815 (2007) · source
“We reiterate the call of the Quartet for both parties to make progress on their phase one Road Map obligations, including an Israeli freeze on settlements, removal of unauthorized outposts and opening of East Jerusalem institutions, as well as Palestinian steps to end violence, terrorism and incitement. In this regard, following the November deployment of 300 additional security personnel in Nablus, the Palestinian Authority recently deployed some 500 armed police officers to the West Bank city of Tulkarem in an effort to seize unlicensed weapons and impose law and order. Tensions have risen between Palestinian security forces and armed militants - notably in Hebron, where the Governor's house was recently attacked.”
2007-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5815 (2007) · source