SECRETARY-GENERAL URGES ISRAEL NOT TO TAKE ACTIONS 'INCONSISTENT WITH INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW'

SECRETARY-GENERAL URGES ISRAEL NOT TO TAKE ACTIONS

'INCONSISTENT WITH INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW'

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

The Secretary-General continues to be deeply concerned by the reports that the Government of Israel is proceeding with plans to deport from the West Bank to the Gaza Strip relatives of Palestinians known or alleged to be responsible for attacks against Israel.  He calls on the Government of Israel to adhere to its obligations under the Fourth Geneva Convention (1949).  The Secretary-General urges the Government of Israel not to take actions that are inconsistent with international humanitarian law, such as forcible transfer of protected persons, regardless of motive, and collective punishment.

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