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Press questions on flotilla detainees and regional diplomacy draw UN concern and offers to follow up
Summary
Reporters pressed the UN on reports of alleged mistreatment of detained flotilla participants and on diplomatic developments involving Turkey, Qatar and China; the press officer expressed concern over alleged humiliating treatment and said the UN would look into other reports and hopes diplomatic efforts reduce tensions.
During the question-and-answer portion of the briefing, reporters asked about several politically sensitive issues and the UN press officer responded.
On the flotilla: A reporter asked whether the secretary-general had a reaction to reports from people detained by Israeli authorities alleging physical and sexual abuse. The press officer said the UN was "very concerned by these reports," cited video evidence posted by an Israeli minister that appears to show humiliating treatment, and said those detained who have not been released "all need to be released, and sent home, and people who were responsible for that treatment should be held to account."
On Cuba: A reporter asked whether the UN is still working to get oil, gas and refined products into Cuba. The press officer said the UN continues to do what it can to alleviate the situation and described logistical constraints that make daily life harder for Cuban households.
On Turkey: A reporter asked about a Turkish court removing the leader of a main opposition party and whether the UN sees that as a threat to democracy; the press officer said he had not seen that report and would look into it before commenting.
On regional diplomacy and Iran: A reporter asked about reported Qatari involvement in talks in Tehran; the press officer said the UN was not directly involved, had seen reports of Qatari and Pakistani roles, and said coordinated diplomatic efforts that reduce tensions and reopen navigation in the Strait of Hormuz would be welcome.
A member of the public who identified himself as Ray asked whether visits by world leaders to China could have broader implications; the press officer welcomed diplomatic dialogue and noted Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi would visit the UN on Tuesday.
