Document Library

Statement by UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process,
Tor Wennesland, on the situation in the Gaza Strip

Jerusalem, 7 August 2022

“The United Nations has been intensively engaged and closely working with Egypt on mediating a restoration of calm.

We underscore our commitment to do all we can towards ending the ongoing escalation, ensuring the safety and security of the civilian population, and following-up on the Palestinian prisoners file.

I will continue to work with all relevant parties to de-escalate the situation urgently."

[ENDS]

07 August 2022

Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General - on the ceasefire in Gaza and Israel

Stephane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General

The Secretary-General welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire in Gaza and Israel.

He is deeply saddened by the loss of life and injuries, including children, from airstrikes in Gaza and the indiscriminate firing of rockets toward Israel from population centres in Gaza by Palestinian Islamic Jihad and other militant groups.

He extends his deepest condolences to the victims of the violence and their loved ones.

The hostilities have contributed to a humanitarian emergency. Crossings into Gaza have been closed and power shortages are affecting essential facilities and supplies. Hundreds of buildings and homes have been destroyed or damaged, leaving thousands of Palestinians homeless.

The Secretary-General commends Egypt for its efforts carried out, in close coordination with the UN, to help restore calm.

The Secretary-General calls on all sides to observe the ceasefire.

He reaffirms the United Nations’ commitment to the achievement of the two-State solution based on relevant United Nations resolutions, international law, and prior agreements and the importance of restoring a political horizon. Only a negotiated sustainable political solution will end, once and for all, these devastating cycles of violence and lead to a peaceful future for Palestinians and Israelis alike.

Statement by UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process,
Tor Wennesland, on the situation in the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip

Jerusalem, 5 August 2022

“I am deeply concerned by the ongoing escalation between Palestinian militants and Israel, including the targeted killing today of a Palestinian Islamic Jihad leader inside Gaza. This takes place amidst mounting tensions across the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip in recent weeks.

In the past few hours, at least 10 Palestinians were killed by Israeli airstrikes. I am deeply saddened by reports that a five-year-old child has been killed in these strikes. There can be no justification for any attacks against civilians.

The continuing escalation is very dangerous. The launching of rockets must cease immediately, and I call on all sides to avoid further escalation.

The progress made in gradually opening Gaza since the end of the May escalation risks being undone, leading to even greater humanitarian needs at a time when global resources are stretched and international financial support for a renewed humanitarian effort in Gaza will not be easily available.

The UN is fully engaged with all concerned in an attempt to avoid a further conflict which would have devastating consequences, mainly for civilians.

The responsibility is with the parties to avoid this from happening.”

[ENDS]

Quarterly Brief on Violence Affecting Civilians (April-June 2022)