12 JULY 2014 SC/11472 http://www.un.org/press/en/2014/sc11472.doc.htm Security Council Press Statement on Middle East The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Eugène-Richard Gasana (Rwanda): The Security Council members expressed serious concern regarding the crisis related to Gaza and the protection and welfare of civilians on both sides. The Security Council members called for de-escalation of the situation, restoration of calm, and reinstitution of the November 2012 ceasefire. The Security Council members further called for respect for international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians. The Security Council members also expressed their support for the resumption of direct negotiations between the Israelis and Palestinians with the aim of achieving a comprehensive peace agreement based on the two-State solution.