I am writing to draw your attention to the alarming rise in Palestinian terror attacks against Israelis. Just a few hours ago and for the second time this week, the 117,000 citizens of Ashkelon came under attack from rockets fired by terrorists from the Gaza Strip.  In recent weeks, Israelis have become the victims of a series of escalating attacks originating from both Gaza and Palestinian villages in Judea and Samaria.

This violence is proof that Palestinian incitement is having deadly consequences.  In classrooms, textbooks, and houses of worship, messages of hate and intolerance are poisoning the hearts and minds of the next generation and having deadly consequences.   

The results of this incitement can be seen in the bomb that exploded on a civilian bus in the city of Bat Yam near Tel Aviv on 22 December 2013 injuring one Israeli.   Had it not been for the quick thinking of the bus driver and an alert passenger, many Israelis could have been killed. The results of Palestinian incitement can also be seen in the stabbing of an Israeli policemen by a Palestinian terrorist on 23 December 2013.  It can be seen in the murder of 22-year-old Saleh Abu Latif, an Israeli civilian, who was shot by a Palestinian sniper while working near the Gaza security fence on 24 December 2013.  And it can be seen in the daily incidents of Palestinians hurling rocks at Israeli vehicles.

Just two days ago, the Secretary-General condemned the cross border fire from Gaza and the bus bombing that occurred earlier this week. Yet we have yet to hear President Abbas and the Palestinian leadership denounce these attacks. I urge the Security Council to condemn Palestinian violence and speak out against the rising tide of incitement. There cannot be peace in our region until there is peace and quiet on Israel’s borders.  

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,

Ron Prosor

Ambassador

Permanent Representative

H.E. Mr. Gérard Araud

President of the Security Council

United Nations

New York