Grave concern over death of Palestinian minister

‘The reports that Palestinian minister Ziad Abu Ein died following the use of force by Israeli troops give cause for grave concern,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Børge Brende.

Ziad Abu Ein died in hospital on Wednesday 10 December, after being injured by Israeli security forces in connection with a West Bank demonstration to mark International Human Rights Day. According to the information available so far, the demonstration was peaceful.

‘I would like to convey my deepest sympathy to Ziad Abu Ein’s loved ones and to the Palestinian Authority,’ Mr Brende said.

‘I deeply deplore all use of excessive force against peaceful demonstrations. Norway calls on the Israeli authorities to carry out a transparent and credible investigation of this incident,’ said Mr Brende.