Statement by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Brian Cowen TD, on recent violence in the Middle East
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Brian Cowen T.D., deplored the latest violence in the Middle East when an Israeli military operation in the Palestinian city of Khan Younis left at least thirteen people dead and over one hundred injured. The Minister offered condolences to the families of those killed and hopes for speedy recovery to those injured.
“ This violence comes at a time when the European Union High Representative is in the region engaged in further efforts to promote an end to the Israeli-Palestinian crisis, and will seriously undermine his efforts,” the Minister said. “ I call on both Israelis and Palestinians to end all acts of violence and to show maximum restraint so as to prevent any further escalation and tragic loss of life. It is more than ever vital for both sides to return to the negotiating table and to work together with the international community in a serious and determined effort to build peace.”
High Representative Solana is visiting Israel, the Palestinian Territories, Egypt and Jordan from 6 to 9 October and will meet all regional leaders.
