(Communicated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesman) September 29, 1996

Israel expresses its disappointment over today's decision by the Security Council. The extremely one-sided and unbalanced decision will not advance in any way the goals which the Security Council is designed to promote, namely - calming the situation and advancing the peace process. The Council did not even see fit to mention directly the Israeli casualties of the last few days.

The peace process between Israel and the Palestinians is founded upon direct, open and substantive dialogue between the sides. It is this dialogue which has brought about the progress already achieved. The adoption of unbalanced positions by outside parties can only damage the peace process.

The Government of Israel has chosen the path of peace. Its policy guidelines include its commitment to the peace process. And it has acted to advance this process.

The government has recognized the Palestinian Authority status as its negotiating partner and has reached an agreement with it on how to continue and advance the negotiations. This is the way to proceed now.

It is the responsibility of the Palestinian Authority to act in accordance with the terms of its agreements with Israel as its partner on the negotiations. The Palestinian Authority must act to prevent incitement, to restore public order and, first and foremost, to restrain the Palestinian security forces who are subject to its authority.