The killing of a Palestinian youth who was kidnapped on 2 July in East Jerusalem has caused great indignation. We expect that the perpetrators of this heinous murder will be caught as soon as possible. We condemn vehemently this brutal murder which appears to be committed with a primitive sense of vengeance after the killing of three Israeli youths who were kidnapped on 12 June 2014. We are deeply concerned that these murders might set off a new spiral of violence.

Necessary efforts should be exerted by all parties in order to reduce the increasing tensions in the region, especially in East Jerusalem, and the use of excessive force on security grounds as a collective punishment against the people of Palestine must stop immediately.

We reiterate our call on all parties to act with moderation and common sense in this sensitive environment.