18 April 2006
Draft Press Statement 

Members of the Security Council condemn in the strongest possible terms yesterday’s terrorist attack in Tel Aviv by a suicide bomber, which killed or wounded dozens of innocent Israelis.  There can be no justification for such actions.  The members of the Security Council similarly condemn statements by Palestinian Islamic Jihad claiming responsibility for the attack.

Members of the Security Council express their grave concern about the continuation of violence in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory, in particular rocket attacks against Israel from Gaza and the resulting escalation of Israeli military operations especially shelling against Gaza, resulting in human casualties.  In this respect, the members of the Security Council urge the Government of Israel to show restraint and refrain from excessive use of force. 

Members of the Security Council regret the loss of life and suffering resulting from violence.  They offer their deepest sympathy to the victims, their families, and the Israeli and Palestinian people.

Members of the Security Council members condemn all acts of violence, including all acts of terror, provocation, incitement, and destruction, because they undermine the hopes and aspirations of the Israeli and Palestinian people as they seek a just, durable, and peaceful solution.

The Council members noted PA President Abbas’ condemnation of the attack and expressed concern over the PA government’s failure to issue a similar condemnation. Council members urge that the Palestinian Authority government take immediate, credible steps to find those responsible for this terrorist attack and bring them to justice and encourage further and sustained action to prevent other acts of terrorism.  The members of the Security Council remind both parties of their obligation under the Roadmap and on existing agreements. 

The members of the Security Council call upon the Government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority to abide by their obligations under international law, and to refrain from any unilateral actions that further escalate the situation, put civilians at grave risk, and complicate efforts to reach a comprehensive settlement.

The members of the Security Council reaffirm their profound attachment to the vision of two democratic states, Israel and Palestine, living side-by-side in peace and security.  The members of the Security Council reiterate the importance of, and the need to achieve, a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in the Middle East in accordance with the Roadmap and previous resolutions, including 242 (1967), 338 (1973), 1397(2002), and 1515 (2003), the Madrid terms of reference, and the principle of land for peace.