Annan concerned at reports that Israel will deport relatives of known or alleged attackers
The United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, today spoke out against reported plans by Israel to deport relatives of those associated with attacks on the country, and urged the authorities to eschew any form of collective punishment.
A spokesman for Mr. Annan issued a statement saying the Secretary-General "continues to be deeply concerned by reports that the Government of Israel is proceeding with plans to deport from the West Bank to the Gaza Strip relatives of Palestinians known or alleged to be responsible for attacks against Israel."
The statement called on the Government of Israel to adhere to its obligations under the Fourth Geneva Convention of 1949.
"The Secretary-General urges the Government of Israel not to take actions that are inconsistent with international humanitarian law, such as forcible transfer of protected persons, regardless of motive, and collective punishment," spokesman Fred Eckhard said.