The Secretary-General condemns today's two terror attacks by suicide bombers near Tel Aviv and in Jerusalem in which at least twelve people were killed and many others injured. He conveys his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to the Government of Israel.

The Secretary-General calls on Palestinian militant groups to halt these despicable and indiscriminate actions, which not only spread death and misery but harm the legitimate national aspirations of the Palestinian people. He reiterates his insistence that both sides should fulfill their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians.

The Secretary-General takes this opportunity to reiterate his passionate conviction that peace and security in the region can only be achieved through political dialogue. This will require statesmanship as well as maximum restraint on all sides.