New York

13 September 2012

Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General on violence in Libya and the Middle East

The Secretary-General is deeply disturbed by the recent violence in Libya and elsewhere in the Middle East.  Nothing justifies such killings and attacks.  He condemns the hateful film that appears to have been deliberately designed to sow bigotry and bloodshed.  At this time of rising tensions, the Secretary-General calls for calm and restraint, and stresses the need for dialogue,  mutual respect and understanding.