Annan Condemns Israel's Attempt to Kill Hamas Spiritual Leader

Home>>World

Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Tuesday, September 09, 2003

Annan Condemns Israel's Attempt to Kill Hamas Spiritual Leader

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan on Monday condemned Saturday's attempt by Israel to assassinate Sheikh Ahmad Yassin, the spiritual leader ofthe Palestinian militant group Hamas.

DISCUSSION

CHINESE

SEND TO FRIEND

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan on Monday condemned Saturday's attempt by Israel to assassinate Sheikh Ahmad Yassin, the spiritual leader ofthe Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Annan "is greatly troubled by the intensifying cycle of violence, retaliation and revenge between Israelis and Palestinians," said a statement issued by UN spokesman Fred Eckhard.

The UN chief deplored the tendency of both sides to disregard their obligation to protect civilians under international humanitarian law and in particular, condemned the assassination attempt against Yassin, the statement said.

"Not only are extra-judicial killings a violation of international humanitarian law," it noted. "The attack on Shaikh Yassin also involved the use of disproportionate force in a densely populated civilian area."

Annan called on Israel to cease such acts and return to negotiations with its Palestinian partners.

"He fears that the alternative is still greater bloodshed and loss of innocent civilian life," the statement said.

Israeli warplanes fired missiles on a building in the Gaza Strip on Saturday, leaving more than 10 people injured, including Yassin.

Questions?Comments? Click here

UN Chief Condemns Suicide Bombing in Jerusalem

Annan Mourns Loss of UN Envoy for Iraq

When will the Immolation between the Jews and the Arabs Come to an End? ( 19 Messages)

Powell Says US-China Ties Best Since 1972 ( 10 Messages)

RMB Should Not Be Lumped Together with US General Election: Commentary ( 26 Messages)

Taiwan Huge Rally Opposes Lee Tung-hui's Split Plan ( 3 Messages)