CAIRO: The United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Robert Serry today expressed his deep condolences for the families of the Egyptian soldiers who lost their lives on Egyptian–Israeli border on August 18. “The UN condemns the August 18 terror attacks on the Israeli bus,” he added, referencing a UN Media Office statement. Serry conveyed to the Egyptian government his deep concern over the death of Egyptian security personnel while underlining his continuing worries about persistent tensions, in particular the escalation of violence in Gaza and southern Israel. “The UN is actively engaged and supporting Egypt's efforts to restore calm,” he said. Serry is holding consultations in Cairo with members of Egyptian government, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohamed Amr and Chief of Intelligence Gen. Murad Muwafi. He also requested a meeting with Secretary-General of the Arab League Nabil El-Arabi. Serry shares the UN's growing concern over the current impasse in the Middle East peace process, the statement read, and the Special Coordinator spoke of the growing importance of a legitimate and balanced framework supported by the international community capable of negotiating a two-state solution in the troubled region. Serry also underlined the UN's strong opposition to recent announcements of Israeli settlement construction in occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem – actions deemed unequivocally illegal under international law.
