Senior UN Official Calls For End To Israeli Settler Violence Against Palestinians
While welcoming the evacuation by Israeli security forces of some 200 settlers from a house in Hebron in occupied
Palestinian territory, a senior United Nations official today condemned ensuing settler violence against Palestinians,
calling for an immediate end to such attacks.
“As the occupying power, the Government of Israel is under obligation to protect Palestinian civilians, property and
holy sites,” UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Robert Serry said in a statement, denouncing the
destruction and desecration of Palestinian property, mosques and graves, as well as settler attaΰks on Israeli security
forces.
“I remain concerned about the potential for a further escalation of a tense situation. I call for an immediate end to
settler attacks and restraint and calm from all parties, and urge vigilance from the Israeli authorities to ensure that
the events of yesterday are not repeated.”
He added that extremists’ actions continued to pose a threat to the peace process, and further underlined the need for
action to fulfil the commitments of the Roadmap plan, which calls for a two-State solution with Israel and the
Palestinians living side by side in peace.
ENDS