UN chief rejects criticism from Israel: 'Nothing justifies terrorism'
After PM Netanyahu accused him of 'giving terror a tailwind,' Ban Ki-moon's spokesman says the UN secretary-general stands behind remarks to the UN Security Council that 'it is human nature to react to occupation.'
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon rejected accusations from Israel that he was "giving terror a tailwind," reiterating on Wednesday that "nothing, absolutely nothing justifies terrorism."
Ban's spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters at a press briefing that the UN chief stands behind his remarks at Tuesday's Security Council meeting on the Middle East Peace Process.
"He condemns the stabbings, vehicle attacks and shootings by Palestinians targeting Israeli civilians. Again, nothing excuses terror," Dujarric said.
Dujarric reiterated Ban's statements that security measures alone will not be enough to put an end to the violence, "we must address the root causes - the underlying frustration and failure to achieve a political solution.
"After nearly 50 years of occupation - decades after Oslo - Palestinians – especially young people - are losing hope.
"Israelis, Palestinians and the international community need to read the writing on the wall: the status quo is untenable, it undermines the security of Israelis and the future for Palestinians."
The UN chief claimed in his remarks to the Security Council on Tuesday that "it is human nature to react to occupation, which often serves as a potent incubator of hate and extremism."
"Palestinian frustration is growing under the weight of a half century of occupation and the paralysis of the peace process," he added.
He leveled harsh criticism at Israel for its policies in the West Bank, and called for "The full force of the law to be brought to bear on all those committing crimes – with a system of justice applied equally for Israelis and Palestinians alike."
Ban also urged Israel to change its settlement construction policies, particularly in Area C, and called to halt the demolition of Palestinian homes in those areas.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed Ban's comments, saying that "The UN lost its neutrality and moral force a long time ago and the Secretary General's remarks do not improve the situation."
Ban's statements were also met with condemnation by Israel's Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon, who accused the UN Security Council of being "hypocritical in its attitude towards Israel."
AFP contributed to this report.
