Security Council should shoulder responsibilities

Egypt called on the UN Security Council to adopt a firm stance over Israeli hostilities against the Palestinians.

Addressing a UN Security Council meeting Monday, Egypt's Chief Delegate Ahmed Abul Gheit said the Council should stop the Israeli aggressions; order an immediate withdrawal from the Palestinian territories and send an international protection force.

Israel has been rejecting international observers because it is well aware that granting them access would mean commitment to the Tenet plan and Mitchell recommendations which contradicts with its expansionist policy, he said.

The Israeli government's practices fan conflict and hatred l I and threaten the future of co-existence and cooperation in the region, Abul-Gheit said.

He added that the UNSC should demand an immediate pullout to give a chance to ease the situation.

All attempts to undermine the authority of Palestinian President Yasser Arafat, the elected president, would never bear fruit because the Palestinians have unwavering allegiance for their legitimate leader, he added.