SECRETARY-GENERAL ‘DEEPLY SATISFIED’ WITH POSITIVE MOVES BY ISRAEL, HIZBULLAH

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is deeply satisfied that the humanitarian aspects of Security Council resolution 1701 (2006) have finally been met today.

His thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families.  He conveys his heartfelt condolences to all.

He expresses his great appreciation to the work of the UN Facilitator.  He also thanks the International Committee of the Red Cross and the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) for their important logistical support.

The Secretary-General is looking forward to witnessing further positive moves as envisaged during the negotiations.  He has received messages to that effect from both the Government of Israel and from the leadership of Hizbullah.

Finally, the Secretary-General hopes that there will be action soon for the release of Corporal Gilad Shalit and of Palestinian prisoners.  He believes these steps will contribute to improving the overall humanitarian situation in the region.

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For information media • not an official record