Global perspective Human stories

Middle East: Annan 'strongly deplores' latest deadly raids in Gaza Strip

Middle East: Annan 'strongly deplores' latest deadly raids in Gaza Strip

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today strongly deplored Israel's continuing raids in the Gaza Strip, saying it appeared the country was ignoring international requirements that it protect civilians during military operations.

A statement issued by a spokesman for the Secretary-General said the raids have already killed at least 12 people in the course of yesterday and today, including a four-year-old girl shot in the chest and a young American peace activist run over by a bulldozer. "He sends his deepest condolences to the families of the innocent victims," Fred Eckhard said.

The spokesman added that the Secretary-General is "especially troubled that Israel appears to be flouting a central tenet of international humanitarian law, which requires it to take all possible measures to protect the civilian population during military operations."