Mideast situation/Palestine question – Letter from United Arab Emirates

Letter dated 13 March 2001 from the Permanent Representative

of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations

addressed to the President of the Security Council

In my capacity as Chairman of the Arab Group for the month of March 2001 and on behalf of the members of the League of Arab States, I have the honour to request that a meeting of the Security Council be convened forthwith in order to examine the grave situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including Jerusalem, arising from the escalation by Israel, the Occupying Power, of its repressive practices and measures against the Palestinian population, as seen in its tightening of the suffocating blockade around Palestinian towns and villages, the increased presence of tanks and military checkpoints and a policy of starvation and destruction of the economy, and of deliberate murder. The Arab Group appeals to the Security Council to take the necessary steps to safeguard peace and security in the region and to protect the Palestinian people by setting up a United Nations protection force to be deployed in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including Jerusalem.

Accept, Sir, the assurances of my highest consideration.

(Signed) Mohammad J. Samhan

Ambassador

Permanent Representative of the United Arab Emirates

to the United Nations

Chairman of the Arab Group