SG/SM/16330

Concerned by Increased Violence in Israel, West Bank, Secretary-General Calls on All Parties to Avoid Further Exacerbating Tense Environment

The following statement was issued by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today:

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the upsurge in violence and killings over the past few days in Israel and the West Bank.  Violence only deepens distrust, while making more distant the prospects for peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

The Secretary-General calls on all sides to do everything they possibly can to avoid further exacerbating an already tense environment.  His thoughts are with the families of the victims.

For information media. Not an official record.