PACE CALLS ON ISRAEL TO LIFT ITS BLOCKADE OF GAZA
Baku, June 24 (AZERTAC). The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) today called on Israel to lift its blockade of Gaza “without prejudice to its own security”.
In a resolution adopted by a large majority following an urgent debate, the Assembly welcomed the announcement of a partial easing of the blockade as a “first step”, but said there should be access by land and sea to allow in the goods necessary for “normal living conditions” and to permit economic development.
Presenting the report to the Assembly, Piero Fassino (Italy, SOC) said lifting the blockade was “essential” to defuse tension and pave the way to a resumption of dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians.
The Assembly - which brings together parliamentarians from the 47 Council of Europe member states - also said Israel`s attack on the Gaza aid flotilla was “manifestly disproportionate” and a breach of international law.
It called on Israel to co-operate fully with the international community to ensure a “prompt, international, impartial and transparent enquiry” into what happened.
The Assembly also said it appreciated the intensive efforts made by President Obama and his Special Envoy for the Middle East George Mitchell, and expressed its full support for the "proximity talks", urging the parties to co-operate with them fully for a positive outcome.
PACE regularly brings together members of the Israeli Knesset, which holds observer status with the Assembly, and members of the Palestinian Legislative Council to try and build confidence.
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