Deploring Upsurge in Anti-Semitic Attacks, Secretary-General Stresses Middle East Conflict Must Not Constitute Pretext for Prejudice Anywhere

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

The Secretary-General deplores the recent upsurge in anti-Semitic attacks, particularly in Europe, in connection with protests concerning the escalation of violence in Gaza.

The Secretary-General emphasizes that the conflict in the Middle East must not constitute a pretext for prejudice that could affect social peace and harmony anywhere.  He firmly believes that the conflict needs to be solved through an immediate cessation of violence and negotiations.