OSLO, June 1, 2010 (WAFA) - Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg said, that the Israeli military attack against civilian activists on Flotilla, is totally unacceptable.
“We are shocked..., an independent international investigation into what has taken place,” he said in a comment to the Israeli boarding of the humanitarian convoy to Gaza.
He added, “An independent international investigation into what has taken place, must be opened as soon as possible. Norway’s Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre will raise this issue with the UN Secretary General today.”
“Norway is shocked that Israeli naval forces have shot and killed civilians while boarding a convoy carrying humanitarian supplies to Gaza. I condemn this use of military force against civilians,” said Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
Norwegian leader ship has repeatedly stated that the Israeli blockade of Gaza must be lifted.
“There are Norwegian citizens on board ships in the convoy. Norwegian authorities are monitoring the situation and are ready to assist the Norwegian citizens when they disembark,” Støre said.
Norway called for an international investigation of Israel’s boarding of the convoy carrying humanitarian supplies to Gaza.
“The circumstances surrounding this incident and the number of people killed underscore the need for an independent, international investigation. Today I requested UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to ensure that steps are taken as soon as possible to initiate an investigation to determine whether international law has been violated,” Støre said.
The Secretary-General, who is currently attending a Review Conference of the Rome Statute of the ICC together with Foreign Minister Støre, has himself called for a full investigation.
“To the best of my knowledge, there were three Norwegians on board the convoy. Embassy staff is now in the port city Ashdod to assist the Norwegian nationals who are expected to go ashore there,” Støre said.
Foreign Minister said, “What is permitted in situations like this one is clearly defined in international law. The rules of international law cannot be set aside for political or military purposes.”
