Annan deeply deplores 'disproportionate and excessive' Israeli force in Gaza

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today deeply deplored the use of "disproportionate and excessive force" by the Israeli military in a Gaza refugee camp, which reportedly led to the killing of 11 Palestinians and the injuring of more than 140.

"Such military actions in densely populated areas, as well as the demolition of Palestinian homes, cannot be accepted as a legitimate means of self-defence and violate international humanitarian law," spokesman Fred Eckhard said in a statement on Israel's military action in the Jabalya refugee camp earlier today.

"The Secretary-General once again wishes to remind Israel of its obligations in this regard, and in particular of the need to protect the lives of civilians," he added.