United Nations Radio

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has reiterated condemnation of the Israeli government's plan for 1,600 new housing units in Jerusalem.

Gaza

The Secretary-General told reporters on Tuesday that, as he has said before, directly and without equivocation, Jewish settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory are illegal under international law.

The Secretary-General expressed concern about what is happening on the ground and called for restraint as protesting Palestinians clashed with Israeli police in East Jerusalem.

He reminded everyone that the status of Jerusalem is a subject of final negotiation.

The Secretary-General also expressed grave concern about the situation in Gaza where the Israeli blockade is causing hardship to Palestinians.

"The Israeli policy of closure destroys hope -- hope of a better life for all people, hope for recovery from the destruction and pain of the recent war. As policy, it is counterproductive. It undercuts moderates and empowers extremists. It destroys legitimate commerce and encourages smuggling."

The Secretary-General said this policy blocks the road to a peaceful future for both Israelis and Palestinians in this conflict.

Mr. Ban is leaving for Moscow on Tuesday evening to attend the meeting of the Middle East Quartet on Friday. The Quartet comprises the European Union, the Russian Federation, the United States and the United Nations.

The Secretary-General said that during his visit to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory after the Quartet meeting, he will go to Gaza for a first hand assessment of the situation there.

Dianne Penn, United Nations Radio
Duration: 1'49"