In progress at UNHQ

SG/SM/9094-PAL/1973

SECRETARY-GENERAL CONDEMNS DEADLY INCURSION INTO REFUGEE CAMP

23/12/2003
Press Release
SG/SM/9094
PAL/1973


SECRETARY-GENERAL CONDEMNS DEADLY INCURSION INTO REFUGEE CAMP


Following is a statement issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:


The Secretary-General strongly condemns the latest military incursion in the Gaza refugee camp Rafah, in which at least eight Palestinians, many of them civilians, have died.  Dozens more have been wounded, including many children, and several houses destroyed.  He sends his condolences to the families of the victims.


The Secretary-General reiterates that Israel, as the occupying Power, must protect the civilian population and desist from using disproportionate force.  He strongly urges the Government of Israel to refrain from such violent actions and return to peaceful negotiations with its Palestinian partners according to the Quartet’s Road Map.


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For information media. Not an official record.