UN calls for restraint and protection of civilians in the Gaza Strip

United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Tor Wennesland on Saturday called for maximum restraint and the protection of civilian lives due to increasing tension in the Gaza Strip.

 
In a statement released here after the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad launched an operation against Israel on Saturday, the UN representative said, “I am deeply concerned for the well-being of all civilians. I am in close contact with all concerned to urge maximum restraint and call on all sides to protect civilians.”

“This is a dangerous precipice and I appeal to all to pull back from the brink,” he pointed out.

According to press reports, several towns near the Gaza Strip continue to be controlled by Palestinian militiamen, while 35 Israelis were transferred to be exchanged for detainees.