UN Secretary-General welcomes Security Council resolution

Ban Ki-moon, United Nations Secretary-General, has welcomed the adoption of a Security Council resolution which states that the establishment of Israeli settlements in Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, have "no legal validity," constitute a "flagrant violation" under international law and are a "major obstacle" to a two-State solution and a just, lasting and comprehensive peace.

In a statement the spokesperson of the UN Secretary-General said, "The resolution is a significant step, demonstrating the council’s much needed leadership and the international community’s collective efforts to reconfirm that the vision of two States is still achievable."

"The Secretary-General takes this opportunity to encourage Israeli and Palestinian leaders to work with the international community to create a conducive environment for a return to meaningful negotiations," the spokesperson added. "The United Nations stands ready to support all concerned parties in achieving this goal."

In its resolution, the UN Security Council reiterated its demand that Israel "immediately and completely cease all settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and that it fully respect all of its legal obligations in this regard."