* US opposed Pillay’s reappointment, compromise was struck
* Pillay has criticized Israel over Gaza blockade
* U.S. official notes “shortcomings” at Pillay’s office
By Louis Charbonneau
UNITED NATIONS, May 24 (Reuters) – The U.N. General Assembly
on Thursday renewed the mandate of the world body’s human rights
chief Navi Pillay, but she was given an abbreviated term as part
of a compromise deal with the United States, which dislikes her
criticism of Israel, envoys said.
Syria also made clear it was not a fan of Pillay, a South
African jurist whom the Syrian delegation described as “hostile”
towards Damascus.
Despite Washington’s attempt to block a renewal of Pillay’s
mandate, a deal was reached after South Africa and others
persuaded U.S. officials to back a two-year term for Pillay,
instead of the normal four years, U.N. diplomats told Reuters on
condition of anonymity.
“It was a compromise that was brokered,” a diplomat said.
“Washington can live with her for two more years, but they
really don’t like her positions on Israel and the Palestinian
issues.”
In August 2009, Pillay, who is based in Geneva, accused
Israel of violating the rules of war with its blockade of the
Gaza Strip.
Continued…
