"Following the recent escalation of tensions in Gaza and southern Israel, I and my team have been engaged in efforts to help de-escalate the situation. The UN does not want to see any renewed intensification of conflict and has been sending a message of utmost restraint and concern for the protection of civilians in Gaza and Israel. I am encouraged that we are hearing a clear desire from all concerned to de-escalate the situation and respect calm and I appeal for an end to acts of violence."

ENDS

For further details please contact:

Richard Miron
Mobile: +972 (0)54 5627825
Email: mironr@un.org

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Hayat Abu-Saleh
Office of the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process (UNSCO)
Public Information and Media Unit
Tel: 972-2-5687287
Mobile: 972-54-6631114
E-mail: abusaleh@un.org
www.unsco.org