Statement by the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Robert Serry on the announcement by Israel to develop new housing units in East Jerusalem

“United Nations Special Coordinator Robert Serry is alarmed by the announcement today by the government of Israel to develop new housing units in East Jerusalem, including 1,600 units in Ramat Shlomo which was already condemned by the Quartet on 12 March 2010 during an initial planning stage. If confirmed, this provocative action undermines ongoing efforts by the international community to bring the parties back to negotiations and shape a positive agenda for September. This announcement comes only one week after a separate decision by the government of Israel regarding the construction of additional housing units in another settlement in East Jerusalem which was widely criticized by the international community. The Special Coordinator will engage with Quartet partners on the issue.”