Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General on the
situation in Gaza and southern Israel
27 December 2008
www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp

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.