New York, 22 November 2011 – Readout of the Secretary-General's telephone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu
In a telephone conversation with Israel's Prime Minister today, the Secretary-General stressed the need to de-escalate the current situation, so as to create an environment conducive for the resumption of direct negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians.
The Secretary-General appealed to Prime Minister Netanyahu to immediately resume the transfer of Palestinian tax and customs revenues, in line with Israel's legal obligations. He also expressed his deep concern about Israel's announcement of further settlement expansions, including in East Jerusalem, which undermine current peace efforts and violate international law.
The Secretary-General welcomed Israel's approval of new UN construction projects worth US$ 5.5 million in Gaza, while calling for further measures towards lifting the closure consistent with Security Council resolution 1860.
Document Type: Briefing
Document Sources: Secretary-General, United Nations Department of Public Information (DPI), United Nations News Service
Country: Israel
Subject: Closures/Curfews/Blockades, Economic issues, Peace process, Settlements
Publication Date: 22/11/2011