Minister for Foreign Affairs Condemns Israeli Military Incursion into Gaza

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Minister for Foreign Affairs Condemns Israeli Military Incursion into Gaza

Commenting further on the Israeli ground offensive launched against Gaza last night, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Micheál Martin, T.D., has repeated his grave concerns about the heavy civilian casualties and suffering resulting from Israeli military actions.

“As has been stated already, the military incursion launched by Israel last evening represents an extremely dangerous escalation of the situation. I condemn this disproportionate use of force by Israel which, as United Nations SG Ban has pointed out, will only further complicate the search for peace and an end to this appalling conflict. I again urge an immediate cessation of hostilities by all sides and the establishment of an effective and sustainable ceasefire. This must include the ending of all rocket attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian militants on southern Israel as well as the opening of crossing points for the urgent delivery of humanitarian supplies and the facilitation of humanitarian access.”

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4 January 2009

Press Office