YouSaid · the spoken record

Serry

lines on the record: 746
first: 2008-02-26
most recent: 2015-03-26
sittings or episodes: 33
sources: un-security-council

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“And further, I wish to convey my sincere gratitude to the Security Council and to the Secretary-General for all the support I have received over these eventful years. I could not have carried out my mission without their strong backing and, in particular, without their support for my maintaining contact - as the only peace envoy permanently on the ground - with all parties concerned, including, as appropriate, with non-State actors, such as Hamas. Goal-oriented contact with such interlocutors is an essential element for any envoy seeking peace in a complex, modern conflict. Finally, to my successor, Nickolay Mladenov, I wish every success in dealing with this infinitely challenging environment.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“It remains the primary responsibility of the Council to play its role in developing a new peace architecture for resolving the conflict at long last. Resolution 242 (1967), embodying the key principle of land for peace, is nearly half a century old. During my tenure - in my first year, actually - the Council adopted only two resolutions on Israel and Palestine, and neither of these provided a strategy. Has the time not come for the Council to lead? In conclusion, let me express my appreciation for the dedicated work of the many staff members of the Office of the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, without whose efforts I could not have done my job.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“If indeed we believe that they do continue to seek an outcome oftwo neighbouring States living in peace and security, but are unable themselves at this juncture to agree on a meaningful framework to resume negotiations, the international community should seriously consider presenting such a framework for negotiations, including parameters, to achieve this. That may be the only way to preserve the goal ofa two- State solution in the present circumstances. Peace is first and foremost the responsibility of the parties to the conflict, but that reality cannot absolve international institutions of their responsibilities. For its part, the Quartet has largely failed to live up to expectations, although recent efforts to reinvigorate it, including through an enhanced role for regional stakeholders, may have a positive impact.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“Another lesson learned after seven years and three wars is that the Middle East peace process has mainly played out on three interconnected and mutually conflicting tracks: peace negotiations, Gaza, and the United Nations. The interplay of these three tracks has produced a dangerous outcome - I dare say the biggest crisis to date to our joint efforts to achieve a two-State solution. As I have noted in my briefings to the Council since May 2012, the parties are heading towards an outcome that I can only describe as a one-State reality. As the parties do not appear at this point ready to recommence negotiations, we should not rush them back to the table.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“I can honestly say that Gaza has consistently been a top priority for the United Nations, and for me personally. During each crisis, the United Nations, including through the personal involvement of the Secretary-General, was in the forefront to stop the fighting. Let me here also thank the United Nations family on the ground, particularly the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, for its indispensable role in picking up the pieces in the aftermath and for doing the important development and humanitarian work. The stark truth is that, despite all the efforts, Gaza is our collective failure and the people of Gaza continue to suffer the consequences.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“Bringing all the crossings in Gaza under the control of the consensus Government and reforming the civil service represent essential next steps. Thirdly, all Gaza crossings need to be opened further to support the free movement of people and goods, including to reconnect the Strip and the West Bank and to enable exports. And, fourthly, the international community must be prepared to fully support the Government of national consensus politically and financially. That includes acting on the commitments made at the Cairo Conference to support Gaza reconstruction. A new strategy for Gaza needs the engagement of all stakeholders. I very much hope that conditions will soon allow Egypt to continue playing its important role, including by resuming the stalled ceasefire talks and promoting Palestinian reconciliation.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“That would allow time and give donors confidence for the large-scale, accelerated reconstruction that Gaza desperately needs: major infrastructure projects, including housing; a gas pipeline, to generate inexpensive energy; and a desalination plant to address the chronic water shortages. Once those immediate needs are met, a next step would be to look into providing an opening to the world via a seaport. Secondly, such a hudna can be sustainable only if Palestinians move towards real reconciliation. That has not happened yet. Clearly, it will not be an easy task. But what is the alternative? Empowering the Government of national consensus to take up its leadership role in Gaza is the only way forward.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“It means that we must fix Gaza - or at least stabilize it - so that we do not reconstruct it for a third time, only to see it destroyed again, and so that it does not halt peace efforts that aim to reach the long-desired two-State vision: Israel living side-by-side in peace and security with one single, unified State of Palestine. Prioritizing Gaza means for me achieving four main objectives urgently. First, we need a more stable ceasefire under the umbrella of the Government of national consensus. I have called for a reconstruction hudna: a freeze of all military activities above and below ground over at least a three-to-five-year time frame.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“To seek to prevent yet another descent into conflict, I have publicly called for a new strategy prioritizing Gaza. By that, let me be clear: I do not mean "Gaza only." Neither I nor the United Nations would ever support a strategy that would seek to divide Gaza from the West Bank. Focusing support on Gaza must be inextricably linked to addressing the wider peace process. Prioritizing Gaza means that we recognize that we cannot possibly hope to pick up the pieces ofa shattered Israel-Palestinian peace strategy, leaving Gaza as it is. It means that we cannot possibly hope to again board the peace train in the West Bank and arrive in Gaza as a final stop.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“Allow me, in this final briefing, to share my parting thoughts. Upon leaving this position, I cannot but express an overriding feeling that I have been part of a peace process in which a can is kicked down an endless road. During the past seven years, three United States-led peace initiatives remained inconclusive and did not bring us any closer to the urgently needed political foundation for a Palestinian State as part of a two-State solution. That is why the remarkable progress achieved in Palestinian State-building, pursued vigorously under the leadership of President Abbas and former Prime Minister Fayyad, has started to turn into a failed success. Moreover, all three stalled negotiations were followed by wars in Gaza, leaving the Strip devastated seven months after the last war, as I observed during my last visit.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“According to the Israeli non-governmental organization Peace Now, from January 2008 to January 2014 ~ or six of my seven years as Special Coordinator - the population in settlements in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, steadily increased by an estimated 16 per cent to a total of 551,500 persons - over half a million people. Some 16,500 new residential units were constructed in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem during that period. Illegal settlement activity simply cannot be reconciled with the objective of a negotiated two-State solution, and may kill the very possibility of reaching peace on the paradigm of two States for two peoples. I frankly do not know if it is already too late. The minimum conditions of trust cannot be restored without the new Israeli Government taking credible steps to freeze settlement activity.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“Neither did we fail to report to the Council more positive developments, in particular related to Palestinian State-building and the easing of Israeli restrictive measures. After a long-standing dispute, Rawabi has finally been connected to the water supply, thereby allowing families to begin moving into that modern Palestinian township near Ramallah. I also welcome recent Israeli steps to ease some of its restrictions on the movement of people and goods in the West Bank and Gaza. I only wish that I could have reported such positive news on a regular basis, and I urge Israel to expand upon those important initiatives. Unsurprisingly, settlement planning and activity also continued this month, despite unanimous opposition from the international community.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“The situation in the West Bank, including in East Jerusalem, remains tense. At practically every monthly briefing during the past seven years we have reported on negative developments. Those include the loss of lives and injuries resulting from demonstrations, inter-communal violence, often involving Israeli settlers, and Israeli search-and-arrest operations. We have also reported on security incidents, including, increasingly, so-called lone-wolf attacks. And the Secretary-General and I have firmly condemned acts of terror. I do not need to give the details to report that this month resembles the average from previous briefings, including on home demolitions - another disturbing trend. Numbers sometimes hide the grim reality of entrenched occupation leading to growing despair.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“While not enough, the temporary Gaza Reconstruction Mechanism is making a difference. As of 23 March, almost 80 per cent of damaged shelters had been processed through the Mechanism, with over 61,000 individuals having procured construction materials to carry out their home repairs. In addition, the Mechanism is ready to process large-scale reconstruction. Over 40 international and private sector projects have been approved, and 5 are already under way - including Qatar's first major housing project to construct 1,000 housing units. I appreciate Israel's willingness to facilitate that process. I therefore encourage all international partners to take note that the Mechanism is working and to fully engage on Gaza reconstruction, in line with their pledges in Cairo last October.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“I cannot help but feel that such a gesture may be needed yet again to sustain minimum conditions for stability until the parties have addressed the underlying issue. In that regard, I welcome Prime Minister Hamdallah's second Visit to Gaza this week and commend his continued efforts to find solutions for this and other critical issues, which will facilitate his Government's assumption of its rightful responsibility in Gaza. I also welcome last week's declaration of support by President Abbas and Hamas for the Swiss road map pertaining to the reintegration and reform of the public sector in Gaza. I would like to thank Switzerland for its committed efforts on that issue and urge the road map's swift implementation. While the appalling situation in Gaza endures, there are some signs of progress.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“However, there is still time for parties to end the cycle of counterproductive action and counteraction. With the third month of Israel's withholding of Palestinian tax revenues, now amounting to over $400 million, the Palestinian Authority's financial crisis is deepening. We are deeply concerned that, despite the announcement of an austerity budget for 2015, that temporary band-aid may not allow the Palestinian Authority to survive. Israel's action is in violation of the Paris Protocol of the Oslo Accords. We again call on Israel to immediately reverse its decision. In Gaza, an equally destructive financial crisis, related to the lack of progress on civil service reform, continues to ratchet up tensions. It has been nearly five months since the United Nations facilitated a humanitarian payment to Gaza civil servants.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“Earlierthismonth,thePalestineLiberationOrganization (PLO) Central Council adopted a series of decisions, including "to suspend all forms of security coordination given Israel's systematic and ongoing noncompliance with its obligations under signed agreements." While noting that in three months' time the PLO Executive Committee will report back on the implementation of that decision, to date security coordination is continuing. That move may have far-reaching consequences and, along with the Palestinian accession to the International Criminal Court effective 1 April, it is yet another powerful sign of Palestinian determination not to return to the status quo. We cannot run from reality. There is a genuine possibility that ending Palestinian security coordination with Israel may be the final nail in the coffin of the Oslo Accords.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“On 17 March, general elections were held in Israel. We congratulate Prime Minister Netanyahu and the Likud party on winning the highest number of seats, and note that President Rivlin has invited him to form the next Government, a process that may take several weeks. However, I am frankly concerned by many of the hard-line statements put forward in the final days of campaigning, in particular remarks by the Prime Minister raising serious doubts about Israel's commitment to the two-State solution. I urge the incoming Israeli Government to seize the opportunity of a fresh mandate to quickly demonstrate in words and, more importantly by actions, that commitment.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“However, losing sight of reaching peace between Israel, Palestine and the wider Arab world altogether - I have repeatedly warned the Council that we may be heading in that direction - would be tantamount to pouring more oil on the regional flames. Conversely, real progress in achieving a two-State solution and ending the longest occupation in modern history would go a long way towards improving regional security and strengthening moderate forces in the region. In that regard, the Arab Peace Initiative still holds out the prospect of Israel normalizing its relations with the Arab and wider Muslim world, rather than isolating itself. Let me first briefly update the on significant events during this reporting, period before sharing some parting thoughts based on my seven years of experience, which the Council may wish to consider.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“I warmly thank you, Mr. President, for your kinds words. The past seven years have been an extraordinary experience for me that will remain with me for the rest of my life. I humbly and gratefully acknowledge the unique opportunity afforded me. (spoke in English) I brief the Council today against the backdrop of another month plagued by the brutality that continues to cause immense human suffering across the region. As this will be my last briefing, I intend to focus on my own mandate, while of course recognizing that the Arab-Israeli conflict is affected by the dramatic events in the region. In any peace agreement Israeli security concerns will need to be seriously addressed.”
2015-03-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7417 (2015) · source
“As I have alerted the Council, I am deeply concerned that a one-State reality is on the parties' doorstep if they fail to address the present deadlock. The people of Israel and Palestine deserve better. They are in need of hope - hope that their future will see peace and the end of conflict at last. Reversing the trust deficit must now take precedence. Prolonging the status quo is a sure-fire route to failure. The international community, including the Security Council, has a responsibility and an important role to play in shaping a way ahead. Yet ultimately it is for Palestinians and Israelis and their leaderships to take the courageous steps, now more necessary than ever, to salvage a peaceful and secure future for their people.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“On the political front, Speaker Berri has announced that preparations are under way for dialogue between Hizbullah and the Future Movement, and that a first session may be expected before the end of the year. We encourage such efforts, which may ease tensions and help address outstanding concerns, the most pressing of which remains the resolution of the seven month-long vacuum in the presidency. In conclusion, we have reached a dramatic moment in the quest for peace between Israel and the Palestinians, particularly if that peace - as we have consistently advocated - is to be based on a two-State solution. I feel that 2014 changed the course of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and that the future is more uncertain than ever.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“The visit is an opportunity to reaffirm the solidarity and commitment of the United Nations, consistent with the Security Council's support for Lebanon' stability and security, which remains fragile. On 8 December, three Syrians in Arsal were killed by a Syrian air strike. On 5 December, a member of the Lebanese security forces was executed by his captors, while 25 other Lebanese soldiers and security personnel are still being held hostage by the Al-Nusra Front and the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant. On 2 December, six Lebanese soldiers were killed in an attack on an army patrol by militants near Ras Baalbek, by the Syrian border. We strongly condemn all attacks on the Lebanese Armed Forces.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“On 7 December, the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force observed two aircraft from the Alpha side flying north-east over the area of separation and entering the area of limitation on the Bravo side. That is a violation of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement. Those events jeopardize the ceasefire between Israel and Syria. On 17 December, the Assistant Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations will brief the Council on the situation. Turning to Lebanon, the Deputy Secretary-General is currently in Beirut for a two-day visit on the occasion of the launch of the new Lebanon crisis response plan to address the refugee presence in the country.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“The precise parameters of the freeze plus arrangements are now being negotiated separately with the Syrian parties and on the basis of wide consultations inside and outside of Syria. The Special Envoy completed a visit to Istanbul and Gaziantep last week and will visit Riyadh later this week. His deputy recently visited Tehran and arrived in Damascus on 12 December. The proposed Aleppo freeze is distinct from previous local ceasefires and is intended as a building block towards an inclusive national political process, without preconditions, based on the framework of the Geneva communique (8/2012/522, annex). The situation in the Golan remains volatile, with intermittent heavy clashes between the Syrian armed forces and armed groups occurring in the areas of separation and limitation.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“That was the second time that the French Cultural Centre had been targeted. We note the condemnation of the attack by Hamas. Pending the transfer of security responsibilities to the Government of National Consensus, we continue to hold Hamas responsible for the safety of United Nations and all international staff in Gaza. I must warn that Gaza can now go both ways. We have an opportunity to make advances. But if critical issues remain unresolved, I fear we may be heading towards another implosion with dire consequences. Before concluding, let me say a few words about Syria, the Golan and Lebanon. The Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Syria, Mr. De Mistura, is continuing consultations on his proposed action plan for conflict, including operationalizing a freeze in the city ofAleppo.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“I also hope that challenging security considerations will soon be overcome for Egypt to reopen the Rafah crossing, which remains crucial as a terminal for people to leave or enter. If those and other challenging issues are not addressed, the atmosphere in an already devastated Gaza will only worsen. We are beginning to see the security implications of those persistent pressures on Gazan society. Recent incidents include one Palestinian civilian being shot and killed by Israeli security forces on 23 November - for the first time since the ceasefire - and militants reportedly test-fired a total of 20 rockets towards the sea. Reports are also increasing that extremist elements are seeking to gain a foothold in Gaza. On 12 December, an explosion took place on the perimeter of the French Cultural Centre compound in Gaza, injuring two guards.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“The acceleration of Gaza's reconstruction process is being held back by several factors, many of which are political: the ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinians in Gaza has still not been solidified; and the Government of National Consensus in Gaza has still not taken up its rightful governance and security functions and has no control over the crossings; civil service reform is urgently required and thousands of Government staff are still not being paid. Perhaps most urgently, the reconstruction effort still requires funds. Firm donor commitment to fulfill pledges made at the Cairo conference in October is crucial. The lack of progress on those fronts can fatally undermine our capacity to face the challenges ahead and bring back hope to the people of Gaza.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“The Strip's chronic electricity shortages cannot be met by endless and costly interim measures, however necessary in the short term. Gaza needs access to natural gas if its only power plant is to create affordable energy, as well as a desalinization plant that will meet its pressing water needs. I believe that it is possible to address these pressing needs if we can be assured that crossings will be open for all required materials to enter the Strip in predictable and transparent flows, while addressing reasonable Israeli security concerns. The temporary mechanism is an important tool only in this regard. Let me be clear, those ambitious goals cannot be reached without urgent and consistent international engagement. But any vision for Gaza's future cannot escape the current reality on the ground.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“Up to 80,000 families are living in houses that have sustained varying degrees of damage, while 18 school buildings belonging to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East continue to serve as collective centres for some 19,000 internally displaced persons. The urgency of addressing these needs is compounded by the extreme weather Gaza has experienced in recent weeks with the early arrival of the rainy winter season. As the mechanism begins operating at scale, forging a clear and realistic plan for Gaza will be vital if we want to give Gazans hope. I envisage the following three priorities to be achieved in the next three years. We must deliver affordable energy, sufficient water and the physical reconstruction of Gaza.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“On 7 December, 44 trucks loaded with close to 1,800 tons of cement for reconstruction entered Gaza via the Kerem Shalom crossing. It was the largest quantity shipped in one day in years. In total, over 22,000 tons of construction material have been imported by private sector vendors to date, of which over 17,000 tons have already been procured by individuals. I must re-emphasize, however, that the temporary mechanism is not a substitute for the lifting of all closures on Gaza, as laid out in resolution 1860 (2009). Trade between Gaza and the West bank has been re-established, yet remains much below the potential. Transfers of fish and vegetables from Gaza to the West Bank rose from one truck per day to 11 trucks per day in November. Despite these positive developments, the situation remains very fragile.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“I will now turn to the situation in Gaza, where despite some initial setbacks, the delivery of construction material via the temporary Gaza reconstruction mechanism continues and, in fact, has been scaled up significantly over the past two weeks. As of 10 December, more than 17,000 individuals requiring construction material for shelter repairs had been cleared to purchase materials under the temporary mechanism. Of those, close to 8,000 home owners had been notified and procured materials as of last night. The Ministry of Public Works will now notify a further 10,000 individuals over the course of this week, and around 25,000 home owners are expected to have access to construction materials by the end of December. Construction materials are entering Gaza in quantities ensuring sufficient stocks for vendors.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“During the reporting period, six structures were demolished in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, resulting in the displacement of 21 Palestinians, including 11 children. One of these demolitions was of a punitive nature; on 19 November, the Israel Defense Forces demolished the family house of the Palestinian who, on 22 October, drove his car into a light train station, killing two. These acts, targeting family homes of perpetrators of attacks against Israeli citizens, are a form of collective penalty that contravenes international law and risk undermining the already fragile situation. They are wrong and counterproductive.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“The Secretary-General and I hope that these commitments to maintaining the status quo regarding the holy sites will continue to be implemented. We note that there has been a decrease in the number of Jewish activists visiting the holy compound and a lifting of access restrictions on Muslim worshippers. For the first time since 2007, Palestinians from Gaza have been permitted to worship at the Al-Aqsa Mosque. These are encouraging developments that should be continued. President Abbas' calls for calm have also been welcome. In contrast, I am very concerned that Israel has reinstated its practice of punitive demolitions after almost a complete halt for nearly a decade.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“Overall, a total of633 Palestinians, including 73 children, have been injured and another 406 arrested by Israeli security forces during the past month. Nine Israeli soldiers and 20 Israeli settlers have also been injured in clashes with Palestinians. On 10 December, Palestinian Minister Ziad Abu Ein died after protest activity near the village of Turmus Ayya that resulted in a confrontation with Israeli security forces. The Council encouraged the parties to ensure that a swift and transparent investigation into the circumstances of his death is undertaken. I would also like to acknowledge that constructive steps have been taken by parties concerned to de-escalate the tensions surrounding the holy sites, as per the understandings reached in Amman last month in the presence of United States Secretary of State Kerry.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“While the conflict has consistently had religious underpinnings, what is increasingly worrying is that it is now becoming more religiously inspired. On 18 November, two Palestinians killed five Israelis and injured several others at a West Jerusalem synagogue before being shot dead by Israeli police. The Secretary-General strongly condemned the attack, for which there can be no justification whatsoever. He rejects any attempts to honor those who carried out such crimes. On 29 November, a Jewish-Arab school in Jerusalem was set on fire and vandalized with anti-Arab graffiti. Several Israelis were arrested in connection with the crime, which was strongly condemned by Prime Minister Netanyahu.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“While they are important, we must recognize that these actions are not a substitute for a genuine peace process, which will need to be negotiated between both parties. The Secretary-General hopes that Security Council action will generate constructive momentum towards the creation of a meaningful and effective framework for renewed negotiations. Such a move by the Security Council would constitute a major step on this conflict since the adoption of resolution 242 (1967) almost 50 years ago. In the meantime, the situation on the ground remains explosive. I am deeply troubled by the recent escalation of tensions in Jerusalem and the West Bank, as daily clashes continue to take place between Palestinians and Israelis.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“In a continuation of an ongoing trend in Europe, parliaments in France, Spain and Portugal have adopted non-binding resolutions that call upon their respective Governments to recognize a Palestinian State. These are significant developments that serve to highlight growing impatience at the continued lack of real progress in achieving a two-State solution, and that Governments are under increased public pressure to promote an end to the conflict once and for all. I note the recent League of Arab States meeting in Cairo, where it was agreed to present to the Security Council a draft resolution setting a timeframe for the creation of a Palestinian State. I understand that consultations are also ongoing among Council members to present a draft resolution outlining the parameters of an Israeli- Palestinian final status agreement.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“As the country begins this new Chapter, the deadly diplomatic vacuum can be no excuse for either side to let the present situation get even worse. Now is the time to de-escalate and refrain from provocative steps, rebuild trust and set conditions for a return to negotiations that will resolve the conflict. As the Secretary-General and I have consistently warned, hope for a lasting solution to the conflict must be restored before it is too late. Israelis and Palestinians still demand an end to the conflict, despite their strong malaise concerning the peace process itself. Making headway in at least salvaging prospects for resolving the conflict will require the active role of the international community. We cannot walk away from our responsibility to advocate for a meaningful framework for peace.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“Mr. Serry: Let me congratulate you, Sir, on your stewardship of the Council this month, and express a few words of gratitude for the support I have received over the past two years from the Permanent Representatives of Argentina, Australia, Luxembourg, South Korea and Rwanda. Their presence in the Security Council will be missed. I brief the Council today against the backdrop of a dramatic year, during which we have witnessed a serious effort to achieve a negotiated settlement stalling yet again, a devastating 51-day war in Gaza, and increased violence and tension throughout the West Bank, including in East Jerusalem. Israel is heading to the polls. The recent collapse of the ruling coalition, less than two years into its tenure, has paved the way for early general elections, scheduled for 17 March 2015.”
2014-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7339 (2014) · source
“The elements I have mentioned could, as a package, fundamentally change the dynamics in Gaza and rebuild the faith of both Israelis and Palestinians - in themselves, each other, and the possibilities of peace and two States, based on the end of occupation and the end of conflict. Failing that, I see a danger of a further downward spiral. When I warn that Gaza could implode, or explode again, or the two-State paradigm could slip irreversibly away, I do not believe that I am crying wolf. The Council should not underestimate the dangers. I hope the Council will have the occasion to make its own position clear. This would be a welcome step of confidence, commitment and hope at a time when the parties and the world desperately need it.”
2014-09-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7266 (2014) · source
“The crisis in Gaza is far from over, and the window of opportunity to address critical needs and stabilize the situation is narrow. The devastation unleashed by this most recent round of conflict has left civilians on both sides feeling, once again, battered and embittered. Yet the interdependence of these two peoples has only been deepened, not lessened, by the latest disaster. If they fall into a new round of violence, they will be even more intertwined, yet even more distrustful in its surely appalling aftermath. We - they - all of us must act now and set a wiser and more responsible course.”
2014-09-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7266 (2014) · source
“The Palestinians remind us that prolonged occupation, as well as extended closure, breeds despair, particularly given the absence of an end-game based on the 1967 lines, something which will be a focus of Palestinian diplomatic efforts in the coming period. For their part, Israelis are alarmed at the tunnelling and rocket fire from Gaza and View Hamas de facto control of the Strip with grave concern. That is also reinforcing their focus on the need for security arrangements in any future political agreement for two States. If the parties wish to break out of dynamics that seem to portend deeper conflict and mistrust, and if they still want two States, fresh thinking is urgently needed - from them, and perhaps from the international community as well.”
2014-09-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7266 (2014) · source
“Maintaining the status quo in the West Bank while addressing Gaza anew would send entirely the wrong signal. I am pleased that Israel has confirmed that an additional 5,000 West Bank Palestinians will receive work permits in Israel. But positive Israeli actions on a range of issues, such as empowering and enabling Palestinian planning and construction in Area C, to say nothing of ceasing Israeli settlement activity, would send a powerful message. Finally, all of these efforts must be put into a revised and credible political framework. This will not be easy. The gaps on substance and the mistrust evident in the last round of talks have not subsided; if anything, positions may have further hardened.”
2014-09-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7266 (2014) · source
“However, I note in particular that Israel's declaration of 1,000 acres in the Bethlehem area as so-called "State land" risks paving the way for further settlement activity - illegal under international law and contrary to the pursuit of two States. Compounded with the April 2014 declaration of approximately 250 acres of land in the same governorate as "State land", these are the largest "State land" declarations since the 19805. The commitment of President Abbas and the Palestinian Authority to coexistence and peace was demonstrated by continued security coordination in the West Bank, despite the conflict in Gaza and heightened tensions on the ground. We must also not forget that it was events in the West Bank that were part of the downward spiral towards the recent war.”
2014-09-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7266 (2014) · source
“I do not underestimate the difficulties that remain among the Palestinians, but I have been active in urging them to address these issues during meetings that I hope will take place this week. The United Nations also stands ready to provide increased technical assistance to the Palestinian Authority, drawing on and, as required, expanding our unique presence in Gaza, as the Government of National Consensus takes up its challenges there. Fifthly, as we focus on Gaza, we must give new attention to the West Bank. We regularly draw attention in these briefings to developments on the ground, and I could give another recitation of statistics this month regarding violence, clashes, arrests and demolitions.”
2014-09-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7266 (2014) · source
“In that regard, I am very concerned at the continued issue of unresolved payments to staff hired by the former de facto authorities. The problem needs immediate attention and should be linked to the rationalization process, if the situation is to be stabilized. As part of the continued efforts at Palestinian reconciliation, we believe there must be clear understanding that the control of security forces is a matter solely for the legitimate authority, that the issue of war and peace is a matter for that authority, and not for militant factions, and that, ultimately, the legitimate authority must have control over all armed personnel, assets and weapons.”
2014-09-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7266 (2014) · source
“We must also look now to resume exports and West Bank-Gaza trade and links, something that would be facilitated if the Palestinian Authority were able to assume full responsibility at Gaza crossing points. That leads me to my fourth point. The Palestinian Government of National Consensus, which is fully committed to the principles of the Palestine Liberation Organization under the leadership of President Abbas, must be empowered and enabled to assume its rightful responsibilities in Gaza and oversee the reconstruction of the Strip. Civil and administrative reform must be addressed urgently, moving beyond the current de facto existence of two separate strands of administration, in order to rationalize the public sector and create a unified payroll.”
2014-09-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7266 (2014) · source
“That is important and timely in anticipation of the Gaza reconstruction conference scheduled for 12 October to be hosted by Egypt and supported by Norway. I appreciate Israel's announcement yesterday, in advance of the AHLC meeting of 22 September, that it had approved a programme of over $105 million worth of United Nations projects that had been submitted prior to the recent conflict. I look forward to Israeli approval of an additional programme of work that the United Nations will present before the Cairo conference. Reconstruction will require significant increases in the capacity of the crossings into Gaza to allow for the importation of the required materials.”
2014-09-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7266 (2014) · source
“We will brief the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee for the Coordination of the International Assistance to Palestinians (AHLC) next week in more detail and update it on our progress. We intend to keep the Council regularly informed. The implementation of the agreement should be facilitated by the proper overall context, and we would welcome the Security Council's support and guidance in that regard. I also note that we will need to have sufficient resources to fulfil those additional duties, in addition to any other tasks that may be asked of the United Nations. The temporary mechanism will also help to increase donor confidence that investment in construction and reconstruction works will be implemented expeditiously and solely for their intended civilian purpose.”
2014-09-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7266 (2014) · source