UN Security Council urges resumption of Gaza talks

UNITED NATIONS, Aug 21: The UN Security Council deplored the resumption of fighting in the Gaza Strip and called on Israel and the Palestinians to resume negotiations.
British Ambassador Mark Lyall Grant read a council statement yesterday expressing “grave concern at the return to hostilities following the breach of the Egyptian-brokered humanitarian cease-fire.” He said the council calls upon the parties “to reach an immediate humanitarian cease-fire” and resume talks in Cairo.
Lyall Grant said Security Council members are discussing a possible resolution that would call for a sustainable cease-fire.
Jordan has circulated such a resolution, but Jordanian Ambassador Dina Kawar told reporters yesterday that “we’re taking our time to talk to the Americans, to the Europeans” because “the whole idea is to have a Security Council that’s effective.” (AGENCIES)