May 20, 2004
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Paul Martin today issued the following statement concerning the recent violence and demolition of Palestinian homes in Gaza:

"We are deeply troubled by the recent violence and destruction in the Gaza Strip, particularly the deaths of demonstrators, including children.

As the Government of Canada has conveyed to senior Israeli officials, these recent military actions by the Israeli Defence Forces and the widespread destruction of civilian property are deeply disturbing. While we have consistently condemned all acts of terrorism and supported Israel's right to defend its citizens, we hold that any actions pursued by Israel must be consistent with international law and with international efforts to improve the already dire humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.

The Government of Canada reiterates its support of the Quartet's May 4 statement, which called for all parties to advance political dialogue, for the Palestinian Authority to act immediately against terrorism, and for Israel to take all possible steps to avoid civilian casualties and to ease the plight of the Palestinian people."