- WASHINGTON (AFP) - The United
States expressed concern Monday for civilian victims of Israel's latest
military offensive in the Palestinian territories.
-
- "We've been deeply concerned about recent civilians
casualties resulting from Israeli military actions, including the tragic
deaths of the director Jenin reconstruction for the UN Relief and Works
Agency, Ian Hook, and a young Palestinian boy over the weekend," State
Department spokesman Richard Boucher said.
-
- "We're urging the Israelis to keep in mind the consequences
of their actions and to complete their operations as quickly as possible
and to take steps to prevent further civilian casualties.
-
- "We urge both parties to investigate these civilian
deaths fully, take immediate steps to ensure that tragic incidents such
as these are not repeated, " he added.
-
- Boucher noted Washington's concerns were not a condemnation
of the Israeli offensive.
-
- "We are solidly behind Israel's efforts to combat
terrorism. We recognize Israel's need to take legitimate anti-terrorist
action. We see no excuse for such attacks," the spokesman said.
-
- However, he warned the continued violence was a disservice
to both peoples and the peace process.
-
- "Progress toward the realization of Palestinian
aspirations and the president's vision of two states living side by side
in peace and security is simply impossible while violence and heinous attacks
such as these continues unabated," Boucher said.
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