Secretary-General alarmed by day of deadly violence in Gaza and Israel

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has expressed grave concern at the escalating violence in the Gaza Strip and southern Israel today that media reports say has left nearly two dozen people dead.

In a statement, Mr. Ban’s spokesperson said he “condemns the reported civilian casualties among Palestinians, including children, during Israeli military operations, and calls on Israel to abide by its obligations under international humanitarian law and human rights law.

“The Secretary-General also reiterates his condemnation of rocket fire against Israeli civilian targets,” the statement noted, adding that Mr. Ban was urging all parties to the Middle East conflict to exercise restraint.