Middle East Peace

Resolution Reached for Gaza Situation
Secretary Rice (Jan. 8): "It is obviously a very serious situation in Gaza. And while our goal must be the stabilization and normalization of Gaza through the implementation of a durable and fully respected ceasefire and an end to all terrorist activities, I think that this resolution shows that the Council and the United Nations is indeed seized of the matter. This resolution is a step toward our goals. It reflects the international community’s concern about the circumstances in Gaza and its desire for a sustainable peace in Gaza." Full Text

Humanitarian Action Must Continue
Secretary Rice (Jan. 7): "I just want to make one comment also about the humanitarian situation. We have deep concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. I am pleased that the Israelis were able to open a humanitarian corridor and to provide a pause for humanitarian action, but that needs to be repeated again and again because the people of Gaza need to be in a position to be able to get a lifeline to goods and supplies and to sanitation and to medical help." Full Text | P3 + Arab Group Meeting | Fact Sheet

Remarks At the United Nations Security Council Session On the Situation in the Middle East
Secretary Rice (Jan. 6): "The United States is, of course, deeply concerned about the situation in Gaza, which is clearly worsening. We have been working around the clock to try and end the violence there. The ongoing attacks against Israel and the decision that Hamas made not to respect the previous period of calm shows us that when this ends there must be new arrangements in place, not a return to the status quo ante. It is imperative that any cease-fire is durable and sustainable, and that it ensures the safety and security of Israelis and Palestinians alike." Full Text