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

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

“The Secretary-General has noted with concern that Syria is not a party to the Chemical Weapons Convention. We condemn all violence in Syria, which has cost thousands of lives. That situation cannot continue. The Secretary-General urges all concerned to immediately stop the fighting and take steps towards a Syrian-led transition that will address the genuine aspirations and needs of the Syrian people. Ending violence and seeking a peaceful resolution of the crisis in Syria will remain at the centre of our efforts. The situation in Syria is increasingly also impacting the region.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“I will therefore limit my remarks to emphasizing that the Secretary-General remains extremely concerned by the violence in Syria and by the rising death toll, as well as by the continuing human rights abuses and growing humanitarian needs. Each day brings to light new atrocities and new suffering. Reports of the aerial bombardment of eastern parts of the city of Aleppo yesterday add to our serious concerns about the dangerous escalation currently in play. We are aware of the reports related to the possible relocation of alleged chemical weapon stockpiles in Syria, and to concerns raised about the risk of their possible use. The Secretary-General has emphasized the fundamental responsibility of the Government of Syria in ensuring the safety and security of those stockpiles, which absolutely must not be used under any circumstances.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“On a separate issue that relates to United Nations relations with Israel, I wish to report that, on 10 July, the Permanent Representative of Israel sent a letter to Under-Secretary-General Amos inquiring about the status of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and its activities in the occupied Palestinian territory. The United Nations will work with the Government of Israel to address the issues and explain the important work of OCHA in the occupied Palestinian territory. Now allow me to turn to regional events. The Council heard extensive briefings on the escalating violence in Syria last week, and will receive further briefings next week.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“The Israel Defense Forces conducted six incursions and 31 airstrikes into Gaza, resulting in nine Palestinians killed, including six militants and three civilians, while 54 Palestinians were injured, including 24 militants and 30 civilians. We continue to condemn such indiscriminate rocket attacks from Gaza into Israel and call for their complete cessation. We also urge Israel to show maximum restraint. On 17 July, the de facto Ministry oflnterior in Gaza executed by hanging three Palestinians convicted of murder, in violation of the Palestinian legal framework that requires prior ratification by the President. Six death sentences have been implemented in Gaza since the beginning of 2012, and 14 since 2007. That runs counter to the worldwide moratorium on the death penalty called for by the General Assembly.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“I also urge the Government of Israel to continue to grant approvals for outstanding United Nations reconstruction work in the Gaza Strip, and emphasize once more that there should be a broader opening for the entry of all construction materials into Gaza. The violence in Gaza, which resumed in early June, has continued. A total of 183 projectiles fired from Gaza landed in Israel, including 27 Grad rockets and 21 mortar shells. Several rockets were intercepted by the Iron Dome system. Heavy machine gun shots were also fired from Gaza at a commercial plaza in southern Israel on 9 July, without casualties.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“United Nations reconstruction work in Gaza, which now totals $360 million, has had a positive effect not only for those who receive services but also on short-term employment. However, the economic benefits of increased employment will end with the conclusion of that work. Deeper and more fundamental change is therefore required to enable a functioning Gazan economy, beginning with authorizing exports to Israel and other countries, as well as transfers to and from the West Bank. Without that essential step, Gaza's future will remain tenuous at best. In addition, I urge donors to continue to fund United Nations reconstruction work in Gaza through the Palestinian Authority-United Nations Trust Fund.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“For example, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) currently requires an additional $57 million to meet the shortfall in its core operating budget, covering all of its operations, and an additional $168 million to fully fund the emergency appeal, including the provision of food aid to almost 700,000 vulnerable refugees in the West Bank and Gaza. Most urgent is the funding of $7.5 million to meet food procurement distribution needs in Gaza for 2012. That funding shortfall has already resulted in the cancellation of UNRWA's Summer Games for the children of Gaza and, if not addressed, will result in cuts to essential UNRWA programming across the occupied Palestinian territory.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“President Abbas met with President Morsy on 18 July, and Hamas leader Khaled Meshal met the Egyptian President the following day. We continue to support such efforts through Egyptian auspices, under the leadership of President Abbas and within the framework of the commitments of the Palestine Liberation Organization, the positions of the Quartet and the Arab Peace Initiative. I visited Gaza from 2 to 5 July, and was again struck by the fragility and unsustainability of the present situation, which has lead to unacceptable hardship for the local population. That is partially explained by growing funding challenges for United Nations operations.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“On the Palestinian side, efforts to advance reconciliation were again delayed when the de facto authorities in Gaza decided to suspend the voter registration process that the Central Elections Commission had planned for 3 to 14 July. We have voiced our clear disappointment with this decision and continue to believe that the democratic renewal of institutions in the occupied territories is long overdue. On 10 July, the Palestinian Authority, pending further developments on reconciliation, called for municipal elections to be held throughout the occupied territories on 20 October. This has been rejected by Hamas. During my recent visit to Egypt on 25 and 26 June, just days after Mohamed Morsy was announced as Egypt's next President, I received firm assurances from the Egyptian authorities of their continued efforts to reach reconciliation.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“Four detainees have continued their hunger strikes. In the West Bank, on 19 July Israeli authorities released the Speaker of the Palestinian Parliament, Aziz Dweik, who had been held for six months under administrative detention. Internal political dynamics remain fluid. On 17 July, the Kadima party led by Shaul Mofaz left Prime Minister Netanyahu's coalition after two months in the Government. Kadima's decision to leave the coalition emerged after disagreements on the renewal of a law regarding the military service of the Jewish Haredi community. The creation of the large coalition in May had stirred expectations for renewed momentum regarding the peace process.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“The Palestinian security operation that started in Jenin in May in the northern West Bank continues. More than 150 suspects have been apprehended, including members of Palestinian security forces. On 30 June, a senior Fatah member was shot and injured in Jenin. On 8 July, Prime Minister Fayyad inaugurated the Palestine College for Police Sciences in the presence of the President of the European Commission. On a positive note, as part of the 14 May agreement to end the mass prisoner hunger strike, on 16 July 48 relatives from the Gaza strip were allowed to visit 25 detainees in Israeli prisons, and on 23 July 33 relatives visited 27 detainees. There are more than 500 detainees from Gaza in Israeli prisons. This was the first time since 2007 that such family visits from Gaza had taken place.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“Most Palestinians injuries and arrests during the reporting period took place during demonstrations against the barrier, which deviates from the Green Line in contravention to the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice. A Palestinian demonstration in Ramallah on 30 June against a planned meeting between President Abbas and then Deputy Prime Minister of Israel Shaul Mofaz resulted in clashes with Palestinian security forces. Although the meeting was canceled, demonstrations continued for two more days to protest the use of force by Palestinian police. I would like to again stress that the right of peaceful protest must be upheld and that all protests should be kept strictly non-violent. Palestinian security forces continued to work to maintain law and order in the West Bank.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“On 27 June, a Palestinian was shot and injured by an Israeli security guard at the entrance of the settlement of Ma'ale Adumim after allegedly hitting an Israeli police car with his vehicle. On 17 July, a Palestinian was arrested for attacking an Israeli girl in Area C. Citing security, Israeli security forces conducted 477 operations in the West Bank, which was an increase from previous months, resulting in 185 Palestinians, including eight children, being injured, while two Israeli soldiers were also injured. A total of 246 Palestinians were arrested, including a member of the Palestinian Legislative Council affiliated with Hamas, on 15 July. On 9 July, a Jerusalem court sentenced two former Israeli police officers to 30 months in prison for the negligent death of a Palestinian in 2008.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“As the Quartet has stated on numerous occasions, any Israeli settlement activity in the West Bank cannot prejudge the outcome of negotiations and will not be recognized by the international community. As in previous reporting periods, clashes between Israeli settlers and Palestinians have continued. Settlers attacked Palestinians near Hebron on 30 June, and Nablus was the site of clashes during Israeli visits to Joseph's Tomb on 21 June and 18 July. Settler attacks on Palestinian property, including agricultural land and orchards, also continued, resulting in over 1,000 trees being damaged. Palestinian attacks on Israelis in the West Bank, mostly consisting of stone-throwing at Israeli vehicles, also continued, resulting in one Israeli injury on 11 July.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“At the same time, a committee led by retired Supreme Court Justice Edmond Levy and commissioned by the Israeli Government to provide recommendations on "the status of the construction" in the West Bank submitted its report to the Prime Minister on 9 July. The report claimed that the Israeli presence in the West Bank was not a military occupation, recommended post-facto approval of outposts which the Israeli legal system deems illegal, and proposed changes to the process of approving settlement construction. The Israeli Government has not endorsed the report, but such proposals are in direct contradiction to international law. I reiterate that any settlement construction in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, is contrary to international law and Israel's commitments under the road map, and should stop.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“We are also concerned about recent reports that the Israeli Minister of Defence has ordered the demolition of eight Palestinian villages near Hebron so that the area can be used for military training. On 18 July, a Higher Education Committee nominated by the Israeli military commander of the West Bank approved an application by a college in the settlement of Ariel, which is deep in the West Bank, to upgrade its status to that of university. While still pending approval, such an upgrade would considerably increase Government funding, resulting in an increase in enrolment, which now stands at 12,000 students. This represents a further encroachment into the West Bank and runs counter to Israel's road map obligations to freeze settlement activity, including natural growth.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“In Gaza, next steps must include enabling exports to Israel and other countries, as well as transfers to and from the West Bank. This will in turn enable economic growth and, in addition, provide much needed additional revenue through taxation for the Palestinian Authority. Settlement announcements continued this month, with the Israel Land Authority publishing tenders for 171 new settlement units in East Jerusalem, 41 in Pisgat Ze'ev, and 130 units in Har Homa. Additionally, 13 Palestinian structures, including three residences, were demolished in the West Bank during the reporting period, leading to the displacement of 20 Palestinians, including seven children.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“We have also repeatedly pointed to the need for an improved mechanism for the transfer of the VAT revenues Israel collects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority to enhance transparency and efficiency. Last week, Israeli authorities transferred half of the monthly VAT collection to the PA two weeks early in order to assist with the payment of salaries ahead of the holy month of Ramadan. On 17 July, Israel approved 5,000 permits for Palestinian construction workers to work in Israel, in addition to the 34,250 permits that have already been issued for Palestinian workers to work there. This initiative is welcome, but more needs to be done to ease access and movement and enable economic growth throughout the West Bank, including Area C, the Jordan Valley and Gaza.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“At the start of the year, the Authority announced that it owed $1.1 billion in bank loans and $400 million to the private sector. In addition, it expects a $1-billion shortfall in funding towards its $3.5-billion budget for 2012. At the start of July, the Palestinian Finance Minister announced that the Palestinian Authority could not pay all June salaries to its 150,000 employees on time. Last week, Saudi Arabia announced a contribution of $100 million. This is positive news that has provided the Palestinian Authority with a welcome respite, including by allowing it to pay the June salaries, but it will be brief. We call on other donors, particularly other Gulf countries, to consider making a timely donation during this period of critical shortage.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also visited Israel on 16 and 17 July, and on 6 July met with President Abbas in Paris, where the Palestinian President also met with French President Hollande, European Union High Representative Ashton, and United Kingdom Foreign Secretary Hague. The Arab League Follow-up Committee held consultations in Doha on 22 July, in which it supported a Palestinian approach to the United Nations to seek further recognition without specifying a timeline. In sum, the effort to restart direct talks has not reached a breaking point, but there has not been a breakthrough either, and that is increasingly of concern. While talks remain stalled, events on the ground continue to move in the wrong direction. To begin with, the Palestinian Authority faces an acute challenge in maintaining its solvency.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“He has also underlined the critical importance of Israel's allowing the delivery of weapons and ammunition intended for the Palestinian security forces that are held in Jordan. It is vital that such steps be taken to enable a continuation of effective security coordination. More generally, it is concerning that we have not seen urgently needed enabling steps or other measures that would bolster the Palestinian Authority (PA). Quartet envoys have remained in close contact with each other and the parties, and a number of high-level visits have taken place. On 25 and 26 June, Russian President Vladimir Putin held meetings in Israel and with President Abbas in Bethlehem.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“The Quartet also reaffirmed its commitment to continuing efforts to reach a comprehensive, just and lasting settlement in the Middle East, where all people may live in peace and security. In that regard, the past month has been characterized by a continuation of the effort to restart talks amid continued worrying developments on the ground. Quiet, direct exchanges between the parties are ongoing in an attempt to reach agreement on a package of measures that would create an environment conducive to talks and pave the way for high-level contacts. President Abbas has emphasized the importance of a release of Palestinian prisoners arrested before the Oslo accords were agreed.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“Mr. Serry: Let me at the outset join the Secretary-General and the Council in condemning in the strongest possible terms the deadly terror attack on 18 July against a bus carrying Israeli tourists outside the Burgas airport in Bulgaria. The explosion, reportedly executed by a suicide bomber, killed six civilians, five of them Israeli and one Bulgarian, and injured more than 30 people, several critically. We extend our condolences to the families of the victims and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. That heinous act provides a reminder, as noted by the Quartet on the Middle East in its statement on 19 July, of the need for the members of the international community to stand side by side in the effort to prevent terrorism wherever it may be practiced.”
2012-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6816 (2012) · source
“Instead, we could be moving down a path towards a one-State reality, which would also move us further away from regional peace in the spirit of the Arab Peace Initiative. I sincerely hope that the parties will find a way forward in the coming months, and I pledge the continued commitment of the United Nations to work for a comprehensive resolution of the Arab-Israeli conflict on the basis of Security Council resolutions; the Madrid principles, including land for peace; the road map; and the agreements previously reached between the parties.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“From my vantage point in Jerusalem, where I closely follow events on the ground and in the region, I disagree with those who argue that the significant change and uncertainty in the region brought about by the Arab awakening means that this is not the time for progress. On the contrary, the search for a lasting peace that ends the Arab-Israeli conflict and resolves all claims is, in my view, more urgent than ever, because after almost 20 years of failed peacemaking the very viability of a two-State solution is at stake. If the parties do not grasp the current opportunity, they should realize that the implication is not merely the slowing of progress towards a two-State solution.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“In conclusion, in this briefing I have drawn the attention of the Council to a few positive trends that, if sustained, will offer renewed hope for progress. On the ground, the situation could have worsened, and the parties' concerted efforts to avert this are encouraging. The quiet, direct engagement within the framework of the exchange of letters is positive as well. The outcome of recent reconciliation efforts, on which I have reported, is still uncertain, but in the end there can be no two-State solution without Palestinian unity being restored consistent with that goal. The parties must now also be willing to take the much-needed steps to capitalize on the potential for progress. This is important, because while the potential for progress exists, the situation remains fragile and uncertain.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“The violence and continued killing in Syria continue to be of extreme concern to the Secretary-General, and the peaceful resolution of the crisis is a priority focus for the United Nations as a whole. The Council has been extensively briefed in the past few days, through two letters of the Secretary-General on 25 and 27 May and a briefing by Under-Secretary-General Ladsous and General Mood regarding the horrific events in Al-Houla. I will therefore not address the situation in Syria in my remarks today. Deputy Joint Special Envoy Guehenno and Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations Ladsous will brief the Council again tomorrow and provide further details on the latest developments and on our efforts.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“President Sleiman has indicated that he intends to reconvene political leaders for a renewed dialogue early next month, which Speaker Berri, Prime Minister Mikati and others have welcomed. The initiative also has the active support of Saudi King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud. In addition, throughout the past two weeks, the United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Derek Plumbly, has been in continuous contact with leaders across the political spectrum, encouraging dialogue and restraint. More than 26,000 Syrian refugees currently receive assistance in Lebanon. The United Nations continues to coordinate closely with the Government of Lebanon on the provision of assistance to those refugees.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“Clashes also erupted between different Sunni groups in a Beirut neighbourhood in which at least two people died and several were injured. Two days later, as news spread of the abduction in Syria of Lebanese pilgrims returning from Iran, protests also began in the southern suburbs of Beirut. Leaders from across the political spectrum appealed for calm and engaged in efforts to secure the release of the hostages. Although reports indicated that they were being set free and returned to Lebanon on 25 May, efforts remain under way at present to ensure their release. Against that backdrop, there has been some momentum towards a resumption of national dialogue in Lebanon.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“Air violations by the IDF continued on an almost daily basis. The general situation in Lebanon has been volatile over the past month. Despite the Government's efforts to maintain its policy of disassociation from the situation in Syria, a number of incidents have heightened concerns over the impact of the Syrian crisis. The security situation in the northern town of Tripoli remains of concern following the clashes that erupted on 12 May between the predominantly Sunni and Allawite neighbourhoods of Bab al-Tabbaneh and J ebel Mohsen. The fighting continued for several days and left at least 10 people dead and several dozen injured. On 20 May, two Sunni sheikhs were killed by Lebanese Armed Forces soldiers at a checkpoint in the northern Akkar region. The incident prompted protests throughout the country.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“This is a positive step, and I hope that exports from Gaza will continue to grow. Gaza continues to suffer from a shortage of electricity. While the situation has improved slightly since the last briefing (see S/PV.6742), further improvements are required to ensure that the energy supply is both sufficient and reliable. The United Nations remains engaged on this issue, including through the replacement of four destroyed transformers, a measure that will enhance the ability of the Gaza power plant to feed the electricity grid. In Lebanon, the situation in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon area of operations has remained generally quiet. On 30 April, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) commenced work on a wall to replace the existing technical fence south of the Blue Line in the sensitive area of Kafr Kela, as agreed by the parties.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“The United Nations continues to urge Israel to allow the unrestricted import of key building materials and particularly aggregate, iron bar and cement - the "ABC" of Gaza reconstruction - which are now also substantially and illegally imported through tunnels with Egypt. In the absence of such a change, it will be important to maintain a flow of approvals for further reconstruction works in the Gaza Strip. Gaza's recovery and long-term economic growth remain a fundamental objective of the United Nations. Transfers to the West Bank and exports to Israel are essential in this regard. The recent export of a truckload of shirts to the United Kingdom represents an important broadening of the type of goods being exported from the Gaza Strip. As of 19 May, a total of 150 truckloads of goods have been exported from the Gaza Strip this year.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“We call on Hamas to reconsider its position, exhibit respect for the international community's firm rejection of the death penalty, and abolish its use in Gaza. Reconstruction and economic growth in the Gaza Strip remain fundamental objectives of the United Nations. The total value of approved United Nations works in the Gaza Strip involving potential dual-use materials that require Israel's approval now exceeds $365 million, with $96 million-worth of projects still under Israeli review. This means that United Nations agencies are now enabled to play a major role in international efforts for priority recovery and reconstruction in Gaza. Much more needs to be done, however.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“A total of 11 rockets were fired from Gaza into Israel, While Israel Defense Forces conducted seven incursions and two airstrikes into Gaza, resulting in the injury of 10 Palestinian civilians. Six Palestinians were killed and six were injured in tunnel-related activities. We condemn indiscriminate rocket attacks from Gaza into Israel and continue to call for their complete cessation. We also urge Israel to show maximum restraint. On 13 May, a Gaza court rejected an appeal against the death penalty for a Palestinian convicted of murder in April 2011, bringing the number of death sentences confirmed in Gaza this year to five. The sentence has not been approved by President Abbas, as required by the Palestinian Basic Law.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“To carry out their important mission in an effective manner, Palestinian security forces must be adequately equipped, including by maintaining an appropriate type and amount of weapons and ammunition under their control. Further to our expressed concern regarding transparent enforcement of the law, on 29 April the Palestinian Attorney General confirmed that, for several months and upon his instruction, the main Palestinian Internet providers prevented clients from accessing some Palestinian news websites. On 5 May, President Abbas formally reversed this order and gave public assurances that freedom of opinion and expression are natural rights enshrined in the Palestinian Basic Law. In Gaza, a relative calm prevailed during the reporting period.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“I take this opportunity to reiterate that the right of peaceful protest must be upheld and that all protests should be kept strictly non-violent. Palestinian security forces continued work to maintain law and order in the West Bank within the framework of Palestinian Authority obligations under the first phase of the Road Map. On 27 April, Palestinian security forces safely dismantled two unexploded devices near Jenin. On 5 and 6 May, Palestinian forces conducted a large security operation in J enin to restore order, and arrested some 60 suspects following shots fired against the residence of the Governor on 2 May and his death from a heart attack the next day.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“During the reporting period, citing security concerns, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted 306 operations in the West Bank, during which 725 Palestinians were injured, including 44 children, while 284 Palestinians were arrested. Nine IDF soldiers were injured by Palestinians. The bulk of injuries and detentions occurred during daily Palestinian demonstrations in support of Palestinian prisoners on hunger strike in Israeli jails until the prisoner agreement was reached on 14 May. On 20 May, an Israeli military court convicted Bassem Tamimi on charges of taking part in illegal demonstrations and soliciting protesters to throw stones. These charges related to demonstrations against the barrier, which deviates from the Green Line in contravention of the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“Clashes between Israeli settlers and Palestinians have also continued in the West Bank. Settler attacks resulted in 11 Palestinians, including four children, being injured. On 19 and 26 May, two Palestinians from different villages were reportedly injured by live fire from inhabitants of Yitzhar settlement, south of Nablus. Settler attacks on Palestinian property, including agricultural land, resulted in over 1,300 trees being damaged. Palestinian attacks on Israelis in the West Bank, mostly consisting of stone throwing at Israeli vehicles, also continued during the reporting period and resulted in one Israeli injury. On 20 May, Israeli security forces announced the arrest of Palestinians attempting to kidnap Israelis in the West Bank in order to negotiate the release of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“Progress in one must not undermine the other. During the reporting period, settlement activity continued. On 24 April, the Government of Israel announced the intention to retroactively legalize three settlement outposts in the West Bank towns of Sansana, Bruchin and Rechalim. On 30 April, Jerusalem City Hall submitted plans to the Jerusalem Planning and Building Committee for an additional 1,200 hotel rooms in Givat Hamatos in East Jerusalem. On 10 May, plans for the construction of 1,242 units in the Gilo neighbourhood of East Jerusalem were announced, extending Gilo into surrounding Palestinian areas. These actions are contrary to international law and Israel's commitments under the Road Map, and should stop. Demolitions also continued during the reporting period, albeit at a slower rate.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“On 11 April, while reaffirming its previous positions, the Quartet also underscored that the situation in and around Gaza would remain fragile and unsustainable as long as the West Bank and Gaza are not reunited under the legitimate Palestinian Authority adhering to the commitments undertaken by the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Bearing in mind resolutions 1850 (2008) and 1860 (2009), the Secretary-General has continually supported efforts for Palestinian unity and the work of Egypt in this regard. The Secretary-General wishes to see unity in the framework of the positions of the Quartet and the commitments of the PLO and the Arab Peace Initiative. As he reiterated in his phone call with President Abbas after the Doha Declaration was adopted in February, peace talks and reconciliation are not mutually exclusive.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“On 28 May, the head of the Election Commission met with senior Hamas leaders in Gaza and announced that the Committee will resume its operations in three days. We expect the de facto authorities to extend their full cooperation to enable voter registration in Gaza. We understand that a 10-day period is expected to start simultaneously for the formation of a new transitional technocratic Government for the duration of six months. A transitional Government, once established, will then prepare for general elections and focus on the reconstruction of Gaza. Progress on reconciliation remains a fundamental aspect of peace, as a unified Palestinian polity is central to realizing a two-State solution.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“On the Palestinian side, President Abbas reshuffled the Cabinet and on 16 May swore in Prime Minister Fayyad and 24 ministers. He immediately tasked them with implementing his decree calling for long overdue municipal elections. The Presidential decree establishing the Government, as well as the Prime Minister's letter of acceptance, made clear that the new Cabinet did not prejudge the outcome of ongoing efforts at Palestinian reconciliation. Four days later, on 20 May, Palestinian leaders announced a new formula for progress on reconciliation achieved with the assistance of Egyptian mediation. As part of the agreement and as we speak, the Palestinian Central Election Commission is in Gaza to ascertain whether it will be enabled to update the voter registration lists in Gaza, which is expected to take six to eight weeks.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“On 15 and 20 May, the two sides acted in a way that averted an escalation of tensions. Simultaneously, significant internal political changes occurred. On the Israeli side, Prime Minister Netanyahu struck a deal with the opposition Kadima Party to join his coalition Government on 8 May. The new governing coalition now includes 94 of the 120 members of the Knesset. Prime Minister Netanyahu has stated that the new coalition allows him to promote a "responsible peace process." The Secretary-General sees this as a new opportunity for the Government of Israel to embark on a meaningful renewal of the peace process with vision and determination and in the aim of resolving all final status issues and realizing the vision of two States living side by side in peace and security, resulting in the long overdue establishment of the Palestinian State.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“Instead, the events of the day were relatively contained, with Palestinian and Israeli security forces heavily deployed to prevent confrontation. The Lebanese Armed Forces were also prepared to prevent demonstrations from approaching the Blue Line. Clashes did occur, however, between Palestinian protesters and Israeli forces, resulting in injuries, mostly at checkpoints around Jerusalem. Some clashes and arrests also took place in East Jerusalem on 20 May, on what the Israeli Government regards as Jerusalem Day, marking what Israel considers to be the unification of occupied East Jerusalem. Israeli police arrested 10 Israeli demonstrators, as well as five Palestinians. A Palestinian man was also seriously injured after allegedly attempting to stab an Israeli soldier near the Gush Etzion junction, south of Bethlehem.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“The Secretary-General and I have been engaged from the beginning and indicated our concern for the health of the prisoners. We welcome the foresight of both parties that enabled them to reach the agreement, which we hope will continue to be implemented in full. We also commend the important role played by Egypt in brokering the deal. However, we are still concerned by reports about a few prisoners continuing their hunger strike, one of them in critical condition, and hope for a speedy resolution of those cases as well. The prisoner agreement was reached on the eve of 15 May, the day the Palestinians commemorate as the beginning of the refugee experience, which last year resulted in considerable violence and loss of life.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“In parallel, however, a series of developments threatened to inflame tensions. The hunger strike by more than 1,500 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody, which started on 17 April to protest prisoner conditions and the application of administrative detentions, was resolved on 14 May. We are pleased that Israel has taken steps to address the concerns of prisoners related to the use of solitary confinement, family visits and the practice of administrative detention, which should be used only in the most limited number of cases and for as short a period as possible. We understand that Israel is also to deliver the remains of 100 Palestinians buried in Israeli-controlled areas. The agreement reflects the positive impact of the quiet direct engagement between the Palestinian Authority and Israel.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“Mr. Serry: The past month has been characterized by several challenging events that have the potential to destabilize the situation on the ground. Yet each has been overcome for now, and we are possibly moving in a more positive direction. Following the Quartet meeting of 11 April, the parties exchanged letters in which they outlined their respective requirements for direct talks to continue. The Palestinians delivered a letter on 17 April and the Israelis responded on 12 May. The exchange was kept confidential and led to quiet direct engagement, with limited international involvement, which should be welcomed and encouraged. The Quartet envoys will further engage with both sides to encourage them to seize this opportunity to take mutually reinforcing confidence-building measures that support a continuation of their quiet engagement.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6775 (2012) · source
“As I said to the AHLC last week, it will become increasingly difficult to sustain the achievements of Palestinian State-building without a political horizon, and the absence of progress can easily be filled by negative trends that make each day more uncertain. It is this uncertain situation that the Quartet will have to address at its meeting on 11 April in Washington. It is imperative that the Quartet assume its responsibilities in directing collective efforts towards overcoming gaps in trust and substance, so that we do not lose sight of the ultimate and agreed goal of a two- State solution.”
2012-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6742 (2012) · source
“That Government-led assessment falls short of the United Nations request for unimpeded access for humanitarian organizations. However, the participation of the United Nations at a technical level has allowed for the gathering of critical information, which confirms that there is a significant need for medical and food assistance, as well as for education and non-food items. We are ready to provide emergency aid immediately, and the Humanitarian Coordinator is in discussions with the Syrian authorities to ensure prompt and sustained delivery. Turning back to the Middle East peace process, let me conclude by emphasizing the increased risks of a continued political vacuum.”
2012-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6742 (2012) · source
“The Secretary-General is going to the League of Arab States summit in Baghdad with Deputy Joint Special Envoy Nasser Al-Kidwa, who will also participate in the Friends of Syria meeting in Istanbul on 1 April. Immediate steps are now needed on the part of the Syrian Government to act on its commitments and demonstrate to the Syrian people that it is ready for a cessation of violence and a political process, issues on which the Joint Special Envoy will also engage the opposition. It is vital to ensure humanitarian access and that assistance reaches those in need. The Syrian authorities invited United Nations agencies and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to participate in a Government- led humanitarian assessment from 18 to 26 March, which visited a number of governorates.”
2012-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6742 (2012) · source