OSLO, March 20 (Xinhua) -- Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on Thursday condemned Israel's resumption of hostilities in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the resumption of negotiations to restore peace.
"We condemn Israel's resumption of hostilities in Gaza, where several hundred are reported to have been killed since Tuesday, according to local authorities. On Wednesday, at least one UN staff member was also killed, and several others seriously injured. It is unacceptable that humanitarian personnel and civilians are affected," Eide said in a statement.
"We remind all parties in an armed conflict of their obligation to comply with international humanitarian law," he added.
The foreign minister criticized the Israeli government's decision to end the ceasefire, saying that it undermines the security of both Israelis and Palestinians. He urged all parties to respect international law and ensure unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza.
"The fighting must stop immediately. Ceasefire negotiations must resume. Full humanitarian access to Gaza must be ensured. International law must be respected," he said. ■
