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"The secretary general is deeply concerned about today’s reports," Nesirky said after Israel's latest settlement announcement.
Ban called on Israel "to freeze all settlement activity" condemning the settlements as contrary to international law and the roadmap to peace set out by the international Quartet on the Middle East -- the United States, United Nations, European Union and Russia.
"These actions by the government of Israel come at a critical juncture when the Quartet continues efforts to facilitate the resumption of direct negotiations," said Nesirky. "For this to succeed, the parties must refrain from provocative actions and help create a positive environment for negotiations."
Israel has stepped up settlement announcements since the Palestinians' announcement of their bid for UN membership in September. There have been no direct talks between the two sides since September last year.
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Ban called on Israel "to freeze all settlement activity" condemning the settlements as contrary to international law and the roadmap to peace set out by the international Quartet on the Middle East -- the United States, United Nations, European Union and Russia.
"These actions by the government of Israel come at a critical juncture when the Quartet continues efforts to facilitate the resumption of direct negotiations," said Nesirky. "For this to succeed, the parties must refrain from provocative actions and help create a positive environment for negotiations."
Israel has stepped up settlement announcements since the Palestinians' announcement of their bid for UN membership in September. There have been no direct talks between the two sides since September last year.
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