Secretary-General deeply alarmed by bloody violence in Gaza, Southern israel

 

The following statement was issued on Saturday, 27 December, by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is deeply alarmed by today’s heavy violence and bloodshed in Gaza, and the continuation of violence in southern Israel.  He appeals for an immediate halt to all violence.

While recognizing Israel’s security concerns regarding the continued firing of rockets from Gaza, he firmly reiterates Israel’s obligation to uphold international humanitarian and human rights law and condemns excessive use of force leading to the killing and injuring of civilians.  He condemns the ongoing rocket attacks by Palestinian militants and is deeply distressed that repeated calls on Hamas for these attacks to end have gone unheeded.

The Secretary-General reiterates his previous calls for humanitarian supplies to be allowed into Gaza to aid the distressed civilian population.  He is making immediate contact with regional and international leaders, including Quartet principals, in an effort to bring a swift end to the violence.

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For information media • not an official record