UK urges restraint between Israel and Palestinians

The British government has expressed its deep concerns over the escalating violence in the Gaza Strip and south Israel, calling for all sides to exercise restraint. "I am deeply concerned by the recent escalation of violence in Gaza and southern Israel. I condemn any attacks targeting civilians," said British Foreign Office Minister for the Middle East Alistair Burt in a statement published on the British Foreign Office website. "I urge all sides to exercise restraint, re-establish calm and avoid any further civilian casualties," he added. On another note, Britain welcomed the latest UN report on human rights in Syria indicating its importance. "Today’s discussion emphasized the broad international support for the Commission’s invaluable work in documenting evidence of the horrific human rights violations and abuses in Syria. Its latest report is harrowing and I welcome the focus on accountability for those responsible, said Burt. "Those who continue to support Assad’s repression should be in no doubt that the world is watching and that they should step back from this before it is too late," he added.