IN WAKE OF GAZA ATTACK, SECRETARY-GENERAL CALLS ON ISRAEL TO HALT ALL SUCH ACTIONS

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General deplores the Government of Israel's military action today in Gaza City.  This helicopter attack in a heavily populated civilian area, in which two Palestinians were killed and more than 25 civilians, including at least a dozen children, were wounded, follows the adoption three days ago by the Security Council of resolution 1435.  That resolution reiterated the Council's demand for the complete cessation of all acts of violence, including all acts of terror, provocation, incitement and destruction.  It also reiterated the need for respect in all circumstances of international humanitarian law.

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the possible consequences of this attack.  He calls on the Government of Israel to halt such actions and conduct itself in a manner that is fully consistent with international humanitarian law, under which Israel has a clear responsibility to protect the lives of civilians.

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