Spokesman says ASG for Peacekeeping Operations Mulet welcomes Israel’s approval of construction projects – SC briefing on the MidEast and QoP – Noon briefing (excerpts)

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SECURITY COUNCIL INFORMED OF SECRETARY-GENERAL’S CONCERNS ON MIDDLE EAST IMPASSE

The Security Council began its work today with a discussion of the Middle East, with Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs Lynn Pascoe informing the Council that the Secretary-General is increasingly worried about the impasse in Israeli-Palestinian talks.

He said that, with both the Palestinians and Israel stressing their desire to negotiate, President Obama’s recent speech contained ideas that the international community can rally behind to offer a framework to resume talks and seek an agreement. The Secretary-General looks forward to the Quartet giving impetus to this objective through a meeting at Principals level soon.

Regarding reports that a new flotilla is planned in the next few days, Mr. Pascoe reiterated the strong view of the United Nations that assistance for the population of Gaza should be delivered through official crossings.

Also, Assistant Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations Edmond Mulet briefed the Council later about the 5 June incident in the Golan Heights.

Asked about planned flotillas to Gaza, the Spokesperson said donors can provide aid through the established channels. He added that the approval of projects to help complete two areas of housing, implemented by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), was an important step to improve the situation in Gaza.

Asked about financial pledges for UNRWA, Nesirky said that the Agency still lacks sufficient funding.

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