#Article (Archive)

Condemnation of Israel offensive

Jun 3, 2010, 12:31 PM

We strongly condemn the recent Israel attack on a civilian ship carrying humanitarian supplies, off the coast of Gaza.
We see this as a wanton attack, which caused the death of innocent civilians, as an action further aggravating the plight of the Palestinian people.
At a time when significant strides are being made by the international community to restart serious dialogue to resolve the Palestinian problem, this attack would no doubt, complicate the existing situation and the effort to bring just, lasting and comprehensive peace to the area.
We therefore call on all concerned to refrain from taking actions, in particular the use of force against civilians, that further undermines the situation, and instead work towards finding a lasting solution to the current impasse.
We call on the UN Security Council to look at the serious implications of this incident, initiated by Israel and take necessary actions to enhance the protection of civilians under all circumstances, in accordance with international humanitarian law.
To create conditions conducive to the pursuit of peace in the Middle East this kind of inhuman activities must stop.
We appeal for the immediate release of those detained following Israeli raid of an aid flotilla bound for the Gaza Strip, while calling for prompt investigation into the deadly incident.
We also call for the return of the deceased and care for the wounded, thus making it a top priority. At least 10 civilians died and dozens more were wounded when the Israeli military intercepted a six-ship convoy that was in international waters, as it headed for Gaza. It is vital that there is a full investigation to determine exactly how this bloodshed took place.
Israel must urgently provide a full explanation of what exactly happened and why it happened. There should be no double standard in this whole situation, and world powers including the US and the Security Council should continue to tell Israel to behave well and adhere to the international law.
This act is barbaric and calls for urgent action.

"Crime has its degrees, as virtue does."

Jean Racine