Extremists must not be allowed to escalate Israeli-Palestinian tensions, warns Ban Ki-moon

 UN, 7 August 2015 – Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today spoke out against recent violence between Israelis and Palestinians and called on leaders on both sides not to allow extremists to escalate the situation and “take control of the political agenda.”

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban condemned the numerous rockets launched from Gaza towards Israel over the last few days. He also voiced concern over recent violence in the occupied West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza.

The violence includes yesterday’s car ramming near the settlement of Shiloh which resulted in serious injuries to two Israeli soldiers; the firebomb attack that seriously injured an Israeli woman on Monday in East Jerusalem; and the violent clashes in the aftermath of the Duma terrorist attack.

Also, Mr. Ban received “worrisome” reports today of provocations by settlers in Hebron, the statement noted.

“The Secretary-General condemns these acts and expects all parties to speak out against and prevent such incidents. He calls upon Israeli and Palestinian political and community leaders not to allow extremists to escalate the situation and take control of the political agenda.”
  [un.org]
7/8/15
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