Netanyahu to Ban: Help secure release of Israelis from Gaza

Holding a joint press conference ahead of their meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calls on UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to use his position in the international community to help secure the release of the remains of Israeli soldiers held in Gaza as well as Israeli civilians there.

The issue has leaped to the front of the Israeli agenda in recent days amid a detente agreement with Turkey that does not include Gaza giving up the bodies and prisoners as had been hoped.

Relatives have harshly protested the deal, and they are expected to join part of the meeting between Netanyahu and Ban.

Ban says he understands Israel’s frustrations and fears but warns Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of the dangers if a two-state solution with the Palestinians is not reached,

“I encourage you to take the courageous steps necessary to prevent a one-state reality of perpetual conflict,” Ban says. “No solutions to the conflict will be possible without the recognition that both Palestinians and Jews have undeniable historic and religious connection to this land. No solutions can come through violence. It must be based on mutual respect and recognition of the legitimate aspirations of both peoples.”

Ban also backs the Israeli position of direct talks being the only way to solve the conflict, though he says the international community can help.

“No solutions can be imposed on the outside. It must be based on direct talks,” he says, adding that he will work until his last day in office toward a solution.