Last Updated: Friday, 19 May 2023, 07:24 GMT

UN envoy calls for de-escalation of tensions and violence in Jerusalem

Publisher UN News Service
Publication Date 20 July 2017
Cite as UN News Service, UN envoy calls for de-escalation of tensions and violence in Jerusalem, 20 July 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5971f3e49.html [accessed 20 May 2023]
DisclaimerThis is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.

Expressing deep concern over a surge in tensions and violence around the holy esplanade of Jerusalem's Old City, the United Nations envoy on Middle East peace today called for de-escalation of the situation.

“I call on all concerned parties to de-escalate the situation and on moderate voices to speak up against those who try to fuel tensions,” said Nickolay Mladenov, the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, in a statement.

He welcomed the commitment of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to uphold and respect the status quo at the City's holy sites, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' firm condemnation of violence, specifically the deadlt attack on two Israeli policemen on 14 July.

“I hope these affirmations will contribute to resolving the concerns of all parties and put an end to the provocative rhetoric that has added to the escalation over the past week,” Mr. Mladenov said, noting the importance of the special role of Jordan and the historical role of King Abdullah II, as custodian of the Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

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