SECRETARY-GENERAL, CONCERNED AT GAZA VIOLENCE, CALLS FOR PROTECTION OF CIVILIANS

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned at the violence reported in Gaza in the context of the recent Israeli incursion.  Reports indicate that, during heavy exchanges of fire, including the use of tank fire in populated areas, a number of Palestinian civilians were injured and at least one was killed.  The Secretary-General calls on all parties to do their utmost to protect civilians and uphold international law.  In addition, Palestinian rocket fire into Israel must stop.  Calm must be restored in order to focus all energies on finding a just and lasting peace in the Middle East.

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For information media • not an official record