22/01/2008 :: Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre is concerned about developments in Gaza
“I am concerned about the escalating spiral of violence we have seen in Gaza lately. Repeated rocket attacks on Israel by militant Palestinian groups and Israel’s reactions are further exacerbating the civilian population’s precarious situation,” said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
The Foreign Minister underlined that Norway strongly condemns the repeated rocket attacks on Israel, and that Israel has the right to defend itself and to protect its own people. At the same time he urged Israel to show restraint, and stressed that Israel must refrain from any actions that could constitute a violation of international law. The Foreign Minister is concerned about Israel’s decision to further reduce supplies of necessary fuel and goods to Gaza.
“In my view, the measures that the Israeli authorities have now implemented against the people of Gaza are unacceptable, and at the same time counterproductive. Everything seems to indicate that the armed groups are coping well and continue to receive money and weapons, whereas the civilian population is suffering. Their situation is steadily deteriorating,” said Mr Støre.
“Israel must allow shipments of vital humanitarian assistance and goods to freely enter Gaza. At the same time I urge the parties to actively seek a political solution to this difficult situation,” Mr Støre added.