Beirut, Lebanon

17 January 2009

Secretary-General's statement on attack on United Nations school

Ban Ki-Moon, Former Secretary-General

Today, another United Nations school was hit by Israeli Defense Forces.

I condemn in the strongest terms this outrageous attack which is the third time this has happened.

The top Israeli leaders had apologized and had given me their assurances just two days ago while I was visiting Israel that UN premises would be fully respected.

I strongly demand a thorough investigation into these incidents, and the punishment of those who are responsible for these appalling acts.