Security Council Press Statement on Terrorist Attack in Jerusalem

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Gary Quinlan (Australia):

The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the despicable terrorist attack in a synagogue in Jerusalem on 18 November, resulting in the murder of four innocent civilians worshipping at the synagogue and a police officer, as well as the injury of many more.  The members of the Security Council expressed their condolences to the families of all those who have died and sympathy to those injured and to the Israeli people.

The members of the Security Council strongly condemned all such acts of violence, expressed concern about increased tensions, which have affected both the Israeli and Palestinian people, and urged all sides to take immediate steps to restore calm.  The members of the Security Council emphasized the importance of all statements condemning this attack and condemning all acts of violence, and encouraged Israeli and Palestinian leaders and citizens to work together to lower tension, reject violence, avoid all provocations and seek a path toward peace.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations is criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of its motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed, and should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization or ethnic group.  The members of the Security Council reminded States that they must ensure that measures taken to combat terrorism comply with all their obligations under international law.