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STATEMENT BY ON “THE SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST, NEW YORK, 23 SEPTEMBER 2002 Mr. President, Allow me to begin by extending my delegation’s appreciation to you for convening this urgent meeting to consider the continuing grave situation in Palestine. Indonesia, Mr. President, deeply regrets that the situation in the occupied territories has continued to deteriorate, following repeated Israeli aggression, incursions, and the accompanying widespread-arrests, assassinations, and destruction. We are particularly concerned at the recent attack and reoccupation of the headquarters of the President of the Palestinian Authority in the city of Ramallah on 19 September 2002. Indeed, this policy of the use of military might not only endangers the personal safety and security of President Arafat, but it could also ignite further violence and hence threaten the very future of the peace process. We, therefore, once again urge Israel to comply with the relevant Security Council resolutions for its immediate withdrawal from Palestinian towns and cities, and the cessation of its aggression. In this regard, Indonesia strongly demands an immediate end to the siege in Ramallah. My delegation is also concerned that the reoccupation of Palestinian cities and the continuing policies of tightened closures, curfews and severe restrictions on the freedom of movement of persons and goods by Israel have further compounded the dire humanitarian crisis, which, as contained in the report of the Personal Humanitarian Envoy of the Secretary-General, Ms. Catherine Bertiñi, might spiral out of control within months. All these acts, which violate the most basic provisions of international law and the Fourth Geneva Convention, must be terminated. Unless there is a reversal, the current situation can only lead to further distrust, misery and, probably, even more violence. Mr. President, It is the responsibility of the international community, and especially the Security Council, to continue the search for the road to peace in the Middle East. To that end, my Government reiterates that the prospect of peace rest on the full implementation of all relevant United Nations resolutions, including Security Council resolutions 242, 338 and the recognition of the principle of land for peace, which would lead to the realization of two States, Israel and Palestine, living side by side within secure and internationally recognized boundaries. Needless to say, the situation before the Palestinian people, and before the Security Council, is very serious, and we call on the Council to take appropriate and urgent action to avert further deterioration. Thank you, Mr. President.
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