More Quotes
“I was saddened to hear of the passing of King Abdullah. He was an example of grounded, considered and responsible leadership, with a deep religious tradition. As ‘Guardian of the Holy Places’ of Islam, King Abdullah acted as a moderator, respecting the sensitivity and sanctity of Jerusalem and sought to promote a vision of prosperity for the region. His wise policies contributed greatly to our region, and to the stability of the Middle East.” (Israeli President Reuven Rivlin in a statement, 23/01/2015)
“In a region too often dominated by disputes over land, hi-tech may offer a way to transcend geography and overcome not just economic but also geopolitical challenges.” (Israel’s Ambassador to the UK Daniel Taub in an article in the Jewish Chronicle, 22/01/2015)
“I strongly condemn the terrorist attack on passengers on the bus on Begin Road in Tel Aviv this morning. This was a cowardly and senseless attack. Violent attacks of this nature only undermine the cause of peace.
My thoughts are with all those who were affected in this attack; and I wish those injured a swift recovery.
Every Israeli and Palestinian has a right to live in peace and security. We call on all to ensure calm.” (A statement by Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond MP, 21 January 2015)
“We are not fearing, but nevertheless we should be ready for, any act or any action and even for any escalation.” (Defence Minister Moshe Yaalon speaking to i24 News, 20/01/2015)
The Council of the European Union has decided to appeal today the Judgment of the General Court (in Case T-400/10 – Hamas v. Council) of 17 December 2014.
The Judgment of the General Court of the European Union annulled measures taken by the Council of the European Union against Hamas, namely the designation of Hamas as a terrorist organisation and the freezing of Hamas’ funds. This ruling was clearly based on procedural grounds and did not imply any assessment by the Court of the merits of designating the Hamas as a terrorist organization.
The Council has now decided to challenge some of the findings of the Court regarding the procedural grounds to list terrorist organizations under EU autonomous measures to combat terrorism, as set out in Common Position 2001/931. As a result of the appeal, the effects of the Judgment are suspended until a final judgment is rendered by the Court of Justice.
The EU institutions are also studying carefully other appropriate remedial actions that may be taken to avoid possible annulments in the future within the ongoing review process of EU autonomous measures to combat terrorism. The fight against terrorism remains a priority for the European Union. In this sense, the EU is determined to stem the financing of terrorism, for which EU autonomous measures are an essential tool. (A statement by the EU’s Foreign Policy chief Federica Mogherini, 19/01/2015)
“We strongly disagree with the ICC Prosecutor’s action today … It is a tragic irony that Israel, which has withstood thousands of terrorist rockets fired at its civilians and its neighbourhoods, is now being scrutinized by the ICC.” (US State Dept spokesperson Jeff Rathke in a statement, 17/01/2015)