Sultanate condemns Israeli assault

Sultanate condemns Israeli assault

Tue, 01 June 2010

Use of force on Gaza aid flotilla violates international law –

MUSCAT — The Sultanate of Oman yesterday issued a statement expressing its condemnation of the incidents against the ‘aid flotilla’ convoy heading for Gaza which was obstructed by the Israeli navy. A statement released by the Foreign Ministry said, “The Sultanate of Oman followed with pain and concern the incidents of the aid flotilla convoy which was heading for Gaza and obstructed by the Israeli navy using weapons that resulted in the fall of martyrs and innocent victims.

“The Sultanate expresses its sincere condolences and sympathy for families of the bereaved, and also condemns the Israeli assault which contravenes with the international law. The Sultanate appeals to the international community to shoulder its responsibility towards the lifting of the blockade on Gaza Strip and provide every possible support to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank.”

The Majlis Ash’shura also condemned the Israeli aggression on the aid flotilla which carried humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people in Gaza Strip. The assault, the Majlis said, caused the victimisation of scores of innocent people. Majlis Ash’shura calls upon the international community, parliamentary councils in the world and human rights organisations to take practical steps to deter Israel and stop its recurrent aggression on the Palestinian people and humanitarian initiatives.

Earlier, Israeli marines stormed a Turkish aid ship bound for Gaza yesterday and at least 10 pro-Palestinian activists were killed, triggering a diplomatic crisis and an emergency session of the UN Security Council. European nations, as well as the United Nations and Turkey, voiced shock and outrage at the bloody end to the international campaigners’ bid to break Israel’s blockade of the Gaza Strip.

Its navy stopped six ships ferrying 700 people and 10,000 tonnes of supplies towards the enclave. The Majlis Ash’shura Office, which held its 18th regular meeting here yesterday, echoed a similar plea on the international community. The meeting was presided over by Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed al Isa’ee, Chairman of Majlis Ash’shura. The Majlis reviewed reports on parliament members kidnapped by the Israeli occupation authorities in Palestine. — ONA/AFP