RAMALLAH, May 14, 2018 (WAFA) - Foreign Minister Riyad Malki strongly condemned on Monday Israel‘s killing of Palestinians in Gaza saying that Israel‘s criminal behavior must have consequences.

"The State of Palestine holds Israel, the occupying Power, fully responsible for the grave escalation now transpiring in the Gaza Strip," said Malki in a statement.

Health officials reported that 52 Palestinian civilians, including a child, a double amputee and a paramedic, have been murdered by Israeli forces, while nearly 2500 others were injured, including eight children and 11 journalists. 

“This disproportionate and illegal use of lethal force against unarmed civilian protesters is criminal,” said the foreign minister.

"The international community has a legal and moral obligation to ensure accountability for these unchecked  crimes that Israel is carrying out with impunity due to the encouragement of some countries, including the US Administration," stated Malki.

“The State of Palestine renews its call for the speedy formation of an independent investigation into this situation of wanton killing and targeting of civilians. This criminal behavior must have consequences,” he said, adding, "The integrity and credibility of the international system depends on ensuring accountability."

Tens of thousands of Palestinians gathered at the Gaza border since the morning heeding calls for mass rallies to protest the opening of the US embassy in Jerusalem and to mark the 70th anniversary for the Palestinian Nakba.

T.R./M.K.