Mexico condemns Israel’s military operation in Gaza – Mexican Govt press release/Non-UN document

B109 MEXICO CONDEMNS ISRAEL´S MILITARY OPERATION IN GAZA

Press Release Number 109

Mexico City     May 20, 2004

THE MEXICAN GOVERNMENT CONDEMNS ISRAEL’S MILITARY OPERATION
AND EXPRESSES ITS CONCERN FOR THE WORSENING SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST 

The Mexican government, via its Foreign Ministry, vigorously condemns the deaths of innocent civilians, including minors, during the military operations of the past three days in the Gaza Strip, particularly in the Rafah refugee camp.

It also repeats its rejection of the indiscriminate use of force and the practice of collective punishment such as the demolition of houses. Such actions violate the norms of international humanitarian law, specifically the fourth Geneva Convention.

Mexico joins the various voices of the international community that have spoken out in like fashion, especially that of the United Nations Secretary-General. Mexico also supports U.N. Security Council Resolution 1544 (2004) that urges Israel to stop its military operations and asks that it respect and observe its legal obligations, especially those included in international humanitarian law.

Mexico reiterates its opposition to violence for any cause or reason whatsoever, especially when it affects the civilian population. Violent acts in the Middle East only postpone reconciliation and any opportunity there may be to establish peace.

Mexico renews its call to the parties involved in the conflict to return to negotiations and a peaceful settlement of the situation as set forth in the road map to peace and the pertinent U.N. Security Council and General Assembly resolutions in order to make progress towards building a lasting peace in the region.