In his message on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, 29 November 2014, Ban Ki-moon issued a statement, where he proposed both Palestinians and Israelis to end hostilities for a negotiated and just solution to the conflict.
UN chief recounted recent Israel aggression against Gaza and said "over the course of 50 brutal days this summer, the world witnessed a ruthless war in Gaza - the third such conflict in six years."
Ban pointed to his recent two trips to the region and reiterated that "the scale of the destruction by the Israeli military has left deep questions about respect for the principles of distinction and proportionality, and generated wide calls for accountability. Much more must be done to protect civilians and abide by international human rights and humanitarian law."
Ban asserted that long-term stability depended on addressing the underlying causes of the conflict and highlighted lifting the closure on Gaza and ending the half-century occupation of Palestinian land as necessary measures to be taken in this regard. "On this day of solidarity, our hearts turn to the many Palestine refugees in Gaza and beyond. UNRWA is a lifeline for millions of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank as well as in Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. I urge all donors to continue their strong support to UNRWA and for the reconstruction of Gaza."
Ban Ki-moon expressed concern over the situation in the region and called on all sides to 'show restraint and respect status quo governing these holy sites.' "I also have repeatedly denounced Israeli settlement activity in the West Bank, including occupied East Jerusalem. An end of the conflict will only come through a negotiated and just political solution, based on the relevant United Nations resolutions."
UN secretary general expressed fear that "with each passing day the people of the region are losing any sense of connection – any sense of empathy – any sense of mutual understanding of our common humanity and common future. On this International Day of Solidarity, I call on the parties to step back from the brink. The mindless cycle of destruction must end. The virtuous circle of peace must begin."
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