Time Not Yet Ripe for Arab-israel Peace, Says Hammarskjold

The opnion that the time is not yet ripe for peace between Israel and the Arab states was expressed here today by United Nations Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjold, in his annual report to the member states. Emphasizing that the United Nations “has a special responsibility in the Middle East, ” Mr. Hammarskjold said:

“During the past year, the situation in that area has deteriorated. Efforts to improve conditions have been made in the Security Council, but so far without result. As Secretary-General, I have also offered my services to the parties in order to faciliatate negotiations aiming at the solution of certain practical problems of limited scope.

“I feel that it should be recognized that the time is not yet here for a peace settlement between the Arab States and Israel. But this should not render impossible the elimination of many points of friction which do not raise any questions of principle. In the meanwhile, it is the duty of the countries concerned to put an end to actions of reprisal which, in a sinister series of attacks and counter-attacks, have cost many innocent lives and have embittered the relations between the peoples of the region.

“The situation has been further complicated by steps which have reduced the opportunities for the United Nations organs in the field to render their impartial services to the parties concerned. The existing situation is a matter of deep concern. In the effort to build up the authority of the United Nations as an agent for peace and justice, the co-operation of the governments of the members in the area is essential. “