Date:29/12/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/29/stories/2008122959231300.htm

National

Congress, Left slam Israeli air strikes

Sandeep Dikshit

Congress calls upon both sides to exercise restraint
“Government must snap military ties with Israel”

NEW DELHI: The Congress and the Left parties have strongly condemned the Israeli military strikes on Gaza Strip that left many civilians dead. They said such attacks were “unacceptable to the civilised world.”

Terming the Israeli action “most unfortunate and a matter of grave concern,” a Congress statement said: “The disproportionate use of brute force by Israel, resulting in colossal loss of civilian lives, including women and children, has caused deep shock and anguish throughout the world. This action, therefore, deserves strongest condemnation.”

Reiterating its solidarity with the Palestinian cause, the Congress called upon both sides to exercise restraint and abide by their agreed international obligations for an early negotiated resolution of all disputes.

The party also called upon the U.N. and all countries to intervene for an immediate ceasefire and resumption of dialogue.

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) called upon the United Progressive Alliance government to snap its military ties with Israel.

It said this “shameful” relationship would hamper the image of New Delhi in the international community.

“Its shameful policy of promoting security and military collaboration with Israel even while it continues its occupation and war against the Palestinians will harm India’s image among the countries of West Asia and damage India’s own interests,” said the party’s Polit Bureau.

The “savage and horrific wave” of air strikes by Israel once again exposed the “state terrorism” indulged in by Israel.

“The Israeli government has been oblivious to all the calls for stopping its policies of colonial repression in Gaza and the West Bank. Israel is emboldened in its aggression by the backing it receives from the United States.”

The United Nations, if it is to have any credibility at all, must immediately take all steps to halt the Israeli attacks and protect and defend the rights of the Palestinian people, the Polit Bureau said.

The Communist Party of India also said the international community must pressure Tel Aviv to stop the aggression.