Press Statement Sean McCormack, Spokesman Washington, DC June 10, 2006
Killing and Wounding of Innocent Palestinians in Gaza The United States expresses its regret for the killing and wounding of innocent Palestinians in Gaza today as a result of artillery fire by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). We note that the Israeli government has issued statements of regret for these civilian casualties and that the IDF states that it has launched an immediate investigation into the incident. We welcome Israel's announcement that it has suspended artillery fire while that investigation continues. We call on the Palestinian Authority to prevent all acts of terrorism, including the firing of missiles and rockets from Gaza.
The United States has been in contact with PA President Mahmoud Abbas and the Government of Israel and will continue to monitor the situation closely. The United States calls for mutual restraint and urges Israelis and Palestinians to avoid all actions that could exacerbate tensions further.
2006/605
Released on June 10, 2006
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