Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on the situation in the Middle East including the question of Palestine

The Secretary-General deplores the loss of life during Israeli military incursions in Gaza yesterday, which led to clashes in which at least 15 Palestinians, including civilians, were killed. More than 50 Palestinians have been reported injured so far, among them several critically-wounded children.

The Secretary-General urges Israel to abide by its obligations under international law. This includes ceasing to use disproportionate force in densely populated areas and taking greater care to avoid harm to innocent civilians.