In response to questions about remarks by the Vice-President of Iran, the Spokesperson has the following to say:

"The Secretary-General has on many occasions called on Iranian officials to refrain from these kinds of anti-Semitic statements. He does so again in response to these latest reported comments. He believes it is the responsibility of leaders to promote harmony and understanding and he deeply regrets expressions of hatred and religious intolerance."

New York, 27 June 2012