Ban Ki-moon 'shocked' by Ahmadinejad's remarks

UN secretary general objects to Iranian president's recent remark, who said that the countdown had begun for the 'destruction' of Israel.

United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has taken strong objection to the recent remarks made by Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinajad, who said the countdown had begun for the 'destruction' of Israel.

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"The Secretary General was shocked and dismayed" by the June 3 comments, his spokesperson said, pointing out that "the State of Israel is a full and long-standing member of the United Nations with the same rights and obligations as every other member."

Ban pointed out that under the UN Charter, "All members have undertaken to refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State."