Statement of Indian National Congress on the situation in Gaza Friday, 9th Jan 2009

The Indian National Congress condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the land invasion of Gaza by Israel which has resulted in a grave humanitarian catastrophe. The massive bombing leading to a colossal destruction of civilian property and lives, including innocent children, is shocking and reprehensible.

For decades, the Indian National Congress has stood for and championed the fulfillment of the legitimate aspiration of the Palestinian people and for a peaceful negotiated settlement of the conflict between then and Israel.

The Indian national Congress also categorically rejects the use of violence and terror in any form by any organisation that deliberately targets innocent men, women and children. It calls upon Israel to halt its action which has crossed all norm of civilized human behaviour and demands the immediate intervention of the United Nations Security Council for cessation of hostilities. The international community must rally together to protect the Palestinian people and also to mobilize and pool resources to provide immediate relief. History will not forgive our failure to do so.