It has been one month since I wrote to you asking that you suspend Rima Khalaf, Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), for her hate-fuelled remarks towards Israel.

Last month, Ms. Khalaf released a report entitled Arab Integration: A 21st Century Development Imperative that promotes anti-Israel incitement by blaming Israel for shortcomings in the Arab world and creating divisions between Arab states.

Ms. Khalaf may have a Ph.D. in Systems Science, but she deserves a Ph.D. in science fiction for her 200 page report filled with conspiracy theories.  There is far more fiction than fact in this report that alleges that Israel is reviving the concept of “state ethnic and religious purity, which cause egregious human suffering during the twentieth century.” Ms. Khalaf also preposterously claims that Hitler, who was responsible for the murder of six million Jews, sought to create a safe haven for the Jewish people in the Middle East. These accusations represent the epitome of modern day anti-Semitism and cannot be condoned under any circumstances.  The report also attempts to malign Israel by presenting a distorted view of history.  It goes so far as to accuse Israel of fostering discord and instigating regional conflicts, “aimed at establishing sectarian Arab mini-States.”

It is unacceptable that inflammatory anti-Israel messages continue to be produced under the banner of the United Nations and using UN resources. By demonizing Israel, Ms. Khalaf is advancing a personal agenda rather than furthering the cause of peace or advancing regional Arab development.  Senior UN officials should lead by example and demonstrate tolerance rather than prejudice.  

I once again ask that you immediately suspend Ms. Khalaf pending a full investigation into the matter.  Her report and public remarks demonstrate that she is no longer qualified to represent the United Nations as she does not embody its values of neutrality and impartiality. 

Please accept, Excellency, the assurance of my highest consideration.

Yours truly,

Ron Prosor

Ambassador

Permanent Representative

H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon

Secretary-General 

United Nations

New York