Statement on Gaza

Rt Hon Helen Clark, Labour Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, today endorsed the call of the United Nations Security Council for a cessation of violence on all sides in Gaza.

Helen Clark said that the loss of life and the toll of injury and trauma in Gaza was horrific.

"While Hamas rocket attacks on Israel can never be condoned and have been provocative, nonetheless Israel has further jeopardised the security of its own people through its disproportionate use of force in retaliation.

"The only way to achieve a secure and lasting settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is through a commitment by both sides to dialogue and negotiation. Sadly the escalation of violence in recent days further delays the prospect of peace being achieved through such a process.

"Both Israel and Hamas should abandon their flawed strategies and resolve to use the good offices of the international community to get peace processes between Israel and the Palestinians back on track. Failure to do so condemns countless more innocent people to violent deaths and long term injury and disability, as well as reinforcing the deep seated antagonism which drives the conflict", Helen Clark said.

ENDS

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