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Statement by Robert H. Serry, United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, following today’s evictions in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood in East Jerusalem -For immediate release
Jerusalem, 2 August 2009. I deplore today's totally unacceptable actions by Israel, in which Israeli security forces evicted Palestinian refugee families registered with UNRWA from their homes in the Arab neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah in East Jerusalem to allow settlers to take possession of these properties. These actions are contrary to the provisions of the Geneva Conventions related to occupied territory. They also contravene the united calls of the international community, including the Quartet’s, which in its recent statement urged the Government of Israel to refrain from provocative actions in East Jerusalem, including house demolitions and evictions. These actions heighten tensions and undermine international efforts to create conditions for fruitful negotiations to achieve peace. The United Nations rejects Israel's claims that this is a matter for municipal authorities and domestic courts. I call on Israel to adhere to international law and its Roadmap obligations and to cease and reverse such provocative and unacceptable actions in East Jerusalem. For further detail please contact: Richard Miron Chief Public Information Officer UNSCO 0545627825 mironr@un.org
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