Annan Voices Dismay at Remarks Attributed to Iranian President

UN News Center, United Nations:

Voicing dismay at remarks attributed to Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad reportedly calling for Israel to be wiped off the map, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today said the right of all States in the Middle East to live in peace will now top the agenda of his upcoming visit to Iran. READ MORE

"Under the United Nations Charter, all members have undertaken to refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State," Mr. Annan stressed in a statement issued by his spokesman.

"He reminds all Member States that Israel is a long-standing member of the United Nations with the same rights and obligations as every other member," the statement added.

"The Secretary-General had already decided to visit Iran during the next few weeks, to discuss other issues. He now intends to place the Middle East peace process, and the right of all States in the area to live in peace within secure and recognized boundaries free from threats or acts of force, at the top of his agenda for that visit."