"Israel must stop its air attacks on civilian Palestinian targets." This was Foreign Minister Jan Petersen’s response to the news that at least 12 people, including several children, were killed in an Israeli missile strike against a private home in Gaza. "I strongly deplore the loss of the lives of children and other innocent civilians," said the Minister.

"Norway has no sympathy for Palestinian terrorists. Their acts of violence are among the most serious obstacles to peace, and must be stopped. But we cannot accept Israeli actions that are in conflict with important principles of international law and that only serve to exacerbate the conflict," said Mr. Petersen.

He continued, "We have repeatedly made it clear to the Israeli authorities that we strongly deplore the extrajudicial liquidation of suspected terrorists. Suspects must be tried in a court of justice in accordance with the principles of the rule of law."

"The Israeli attack came after representatives from both sides had reported progress in the negotiations of the past weekend. I hope the attack will not obstruct the political process, and I urgently call on the parties not to allow this to destroy the gains made over the weekend. They must continue their efforts to restore confidence and open the way for a political solution," concluded the Minister.