Annan condemns suicide bomb attack in Jerusalem

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today condemned the attack in Jerusalem by a suicide bomber.

A statement released in New York by his spokesman said Mr. Annan deplored all acts of terror and was "deeply disturbed" by the terrible loss of life. "He emphasizes that attacks against civilians violate international and human rights law," the statement said.

Mr. Annan urged the Israeli and Palestinian sides to exercise restraint and to seek a peaceful solution to the ongoing violence.

"The Secretary-General is alarmed that escalating violence continues to spread death and misery among both Israelis and Palestinians," the statement said. "The violence of the recent days demonstrates that there is no alternative to dialogue between the parties to bring an end to the violence and a return to the political process."