Excellency,
 
Over the past week, terrorists in Gaza fired 20 more rockets into Israeli communities.

Every morning, the children of Southern Israel wake up not knowing whether they will spend the day in a classroom or a bomb shelter. Three families in Netivot are homeless this week, after rockets leveled their houses to the ground.

Israelis have only 15 seconds to take shelter from flying rockets. The Security Council has had more than 10 years to speak against the terror of Hamas. The clock is ticking - and the constant ring of air raid sirens in Israel should serve as a clear wakeup call for the international community.

I call on the Security Council to condemn the rocket fire from Gaza without any further delay. We expect those responsible nations who truly value peace and security to speak clearly, decisively, and immediately against the terrorists that continue to target the people of Southern Israel.

Gaza terror begins and ends with Hamas. It cannot continue hiding behind other terror organizations. Israel holds the Hamas terrorist organization fully responsible for all attacks emanating from Gaza. Israel has exercised - and will continue to exercise - its right to self-defense, as appropriate, and will take all necessary measures to protect its citizens.

I should be grateful if you would have this letter distributed as an official document of the Security Council. I wish to inform you that an identical letter has been sent to H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Allow me, Excellency, to renew to you the assurances of my highest consideration.

Yours truly,
[Signed]
Ron Prosor
Ambassador
Permanent Representative