King to UN chief: Recurrent Israeli provocations against Palestinians caused ongoing escalation

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday reaffirmed that recurrent Israeli measures and provocations against the Palestinian people have led to the current escalations, and will push the region towards further aggravation and tension.

During a phone call with United Nations Secretary General António Guterres, King Abdullah reiterated that there is no alternative to a political solution that leads to achieving just and comprehensive peace on the basis of the two-state solution that guarantees the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, on the  June 4, 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital, according to a Royal Court statement.

His Majesty said he has always warned against the repercussions of Israeli violations in Jerusalem, especially against Al Aqsa Mosque/Al Haram Al Sharif, as well as the illegal measures to expel the families of Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood from their homes.

The King reiterated his warning against altering the historical and legal status quo in Jerusalem, stressing Jordan’s relentless efforts to safeguard Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, in line with the Hashemite Custodianship.

His Majesty said the international community must shoulder its responsibilities and take action to stop Israeli violations, prevent their recurrence, stop the aggression on Gaza, and push the peace process forward.

The King also commended Secretary General Guterres’ efforts to end the Israeli aggression on the Palestinian territories.