SECRETARY-GENERAL STRONGLY CONDEMNS ISRAEL’S ASSASSINATION OF HAMAS LEADER, WHICH RESULTED IN DEATHS OF EIGHT OTHERS

SECRETARY-GENERAL STRONGLY CONDEMNS ISRAEL’S ASSASSINATION OF HAMAS LEADER,

WHICH RESULTED IN DEATHS OF EIGHT OTHERS

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

The Secretary-General strongly condemns Israel’s assassination of Hamas spiritual leader Sheikh Ahmed Yassin, which resulted in the deaths of eight others.  He is concerned that such an action would lead to further bloodshed and death and acts of revenge and retaliation.  He reiterates that extrajudicial killings are against international law and calls on the Government of Israel to immediately end this practice.  The only way to halt an escalation in the violence is for the parties to work towards a viable negotiating process aimed at a just, lasting and comprehensive settlement.

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