Concerned at Middle East attacks, Security Council members back Annan's efforts
12 October -- Members of the Security Council today expressed "grave concern" about the ongoing violence in the Middle East and voiced their full backing to the peace-making efforts of Secretary-General Kofi Annan, according to the Council's President.
The 15 members discussed the situation in the Middle East briefly during a closed meeting this morning, the current President of the Council, Ambassador Martin Andjaba of Namibia, told reporters at UN Headquarters this afternoon.
Ambassador Andjaba added that the Council members were following the situation closely and that they strongly supported the efforts of the Secretary-General, who is in the region on a diplomatic mission aimed at bringing the peace process back on track.
Council members also expressed their support for a statement issued today by Mr. Annan, who warned that the present crisis could destabilize the region and urged all parties to exercise restraint.
In response to a question, Ambassador Andjaba confirmed that the Permanent Observer of Palestine to the UN had requested the Council to meet immediately on the situation, but noted that the members were "considering that request."
"The situation is very fluid," the Council President said, adding "We are considering the next steps."
Later in the day, following another closed meeting, Ambassador Andjaba told reporters that while Council members had agreed to closely monitor the situation, "for the time being, there will be no immediate action by the Council."
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