New York, November 21, 2011
New York, November 21, 2011
Israel is also withholding some $100 million in Palestinian Authority tax revenue following Palestinian membership in the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
“Withholding this level of funding would cripple any government, let alone an authority under occupation,” Mr. Serry said, adding that if not immediately unblocked, this action threatens the state-building gains made by the Palestinian Authority.
“We must de-escalate this situation. In addition to acting on its settlement obligations, Israel should heed the calls of the Secretary-General and other international leaders to unfreeze transfers to the Palestinian Authority immediately in accordance with existing agreements. Donors should also unblock their funding to the Palestinian Authority.
“For its part, the Palestinian Authority should find ways to contribute to de-escalation of the situation and improving the prevailing divisive climate, including in the international arena,” said Mr. Serry, adding that de-escalation will be necessary to create an environment conducive for direct talks.
Direct talks stalled in late September last year after Israel refused to extend its freeze on settlement activity in the occupied Palestinian territory. That decision prompted Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas to withdraw from direct talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which had only resumed a few weeks earlier after a two-year hiatus.
“Gaps of trust, perception and substance remain between the parties. It will not be easy to overcome them,” stated Mr. Serry.
“However, I appeal to them to de-escalate, refrain from provocations and adhere to their obligations, enter direct negotiations, and come forward with concrete and negotiable proposals,” he said, adding that the UN stands ready to continue to support such efforts.
On Gaza, Mr. Serry condemned the “indiscriminate attacks” by Palestinian militants using rocket and mortar fire from Gaza into Israel, which he said must stop, and highlighted continuing concerns about weapons smuggling into Gaza. He also stressed that Israel must exercise maximum restraint and minimize the risk to civilians.
UN News Center.