Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended Israel’s deadly military attack on an aid convoy Monday, expressing “regret”. Most countries immediately condemned the attack.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu:
“Regrettably, in this exchange, at least 10 people died. We regret this loss of life.”
Lebanese President Michel Suleiman:
“Attacking a ship carrying humanitarian aid and food to besieged people is a crime against humanity.”
Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri:
“The attack on the flotilla is a dangerous and crazy move that would inflame the region. Lebanon strongly condemns this attack and urges the international community, in particular major powers that are supposed to be entrusted with working on the peace process, to stop this violation of human rights.”
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper:
“Canada deeply regrets the loss of life and the injuries suffered. We are currently looking for more information in order to shed light on what exactly happened.”
United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon:
“It is vital that there is a full investigation to determine exactly how this bloodshed took place. I believe Israel must urgently provide a full explanation.”
UN human rights chief Navi Pillay:
“We need to establish exactly what happened. However, nothing can justify the appalling outcome of this operation, which reportedly took place in international waters. I unequivocally condemn what appears to be disproportionate use of force, resulting in the killing and wounding of so many people attempting to bring much-needed aid to the people of Gaza, who have now been enduring a blockade for more than three years.”
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas:
“What Israel has committed on board the Freedom Flotilla was a massacre.”
White House spokesman Bill Burton:
“[The U.S.] deeply regrets the loss of life and injuries sustained and is currently working to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragedy.”
French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner:
“I am profoundly shocked by the tragic consequences of the Israeli military operation against the Peace Flotilla for Gaza.”
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad:
“All these acts indicate the end of the heinous and fake regime and will bring it closer to the end of its existence.”
Turkish Foreign Ministry:
“Israel will have to endure the consequences of this behavior.”
Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Arinc:
“This attack is another sign of the reckless levels that the Israeli government’s violent policies have reached.”
Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa:
“Israel’s attack indicates Israel is not ready for peace. Israel attacked the liberty fleet because it feels it is above the law. There is no benefit in dealing with Israel in this manner and we must re-assess our dealing with Israel.”
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