But even as Ban condemned Israel for its self-defense and for taking steps to provide for the day-to-day lives of its citizens — as every other nation has done for decades without a murmur from the international body — he also had words of ire for Palestinian Authority leaders, as if all the frustrations stifled over the years of his tenure, had finally been released.
“At the same time, those Palestinians who celebrate and encourage attacks against innocents must know that they are not serving the interests of their people or peace. Such acts must be universally condemned and more must be done to counter the incitement that fuels and justifies terror,” he said.
“During my visit, I also made my fourth trip to Gaza. Militant activity continues, undermining the fragile ceasefire and threatening to provoke another devastating escalation,” he pointed out.
“Despite significant progress, tens of thousands of people are still displaced following the 2014 conflict. Families are forced to live without electricity for 12 to 18 hours per day. Unemployment remains staggering,” he noted, clearly rebuking Hamas.
“Funds to rebuild Gaza remain elusive,” he added, with a finger pointed at nations who said they would give, and who have yet to make good on their promises. “I once again urge donors to fulfill their pledges made in Cairo.”
But ultimately, he said, “long-term stability and sustainability for Gaza depends on the lifting of the crippling closures and a re-establishment of a single, legitimate Palestinian governing authority based on PLO principles.”
Finally, he warned that the situation in the Golan Heights could easily become the tinderbox that has already blown up Israel’s northern neighbor, the geographic area once known as Syria.
“Turning very briefly to the Golan, I would add that the situation remains volatile and continues to undermine the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement between Israel and Syria, jeopardizing the ceasefire between the two countries.
“As we focus on Israeli-Palestinian peace, we must take a hard look at where this conflict stands. How much longer can the parties and the international community accept political paralysis? And at what grave price? I encourage the Security Council to support the efforts of the Quartet to work with the parties, the region and interested stakeholders in advancing peace. The children of Israel and Palestine deserve nothing less. “The international community, including through the recommendations outlined in the Quartet report, remains resolute in its commitment to support the goal of a peaceful future for both Palestinians and Israelis.
“That is why I encourage the Security Council to support the efforts of the Quartet — of the — to work with the parties, the region and interested stakeholders in advancing peace.”