The Secretary-General spoke today to the Prime Minister of the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Benjamin Netanyahu. They discussed the crisis in Gaza, including the need for the parties to return to the ceasefire negotiations under Egyptian auspices. The Secretary-General reiterated that the United Nations stands ready to support any agreement the parties may reach.

The Secretary-General urged the Prime Minister to return to calm and encouraged him to take steps to facilitate the Egyptian efforts. He stressed the importance for the parties to establish a durable ceasefire with a view to a resumption of meaningful negotiations on a two-state solution.