UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan has reiterated his call on Israelis and Palestinians to observe international obligations in the run-up to Palestinian elections next week.

The UN chief expressed his concern over the recent military conflicts between Palestinians and Israelis.

The UN chief renewed his call on both parties to follow their obligations under international law and in particular to ensure the protection of the civilian population.

In addition, the United Nations announced that further to the UN's ongoing technical and logistical assistance programs, under the request of the Palestinian Central Election Commission and Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the UN will deploy a Liaison and Support Unit during Palestinian elections.