Shelling of UN Base in Lebanon

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today expressed his deep regret on the deaths of dozens of innocent Lebanese refugees killed by Israeli shell fire while sheltered in a United Nations base in Lebanon. He deplored the attack which also seriously injured a number of Fijian UN peacekeepers. He expressed his condolences to the Government of Lebanon as well as to the families of the victims.

"This tragedy is a dramatic illustration of the human cost to innocent civilians caused by the escalation of violence between Israel and Hizballah in the past several weeks. This cannot continue," said the Prime Minister.

Mr. Chrétien called on all parties to immediately halt their attacks and resume diplomatic negotiations towards a comprehensive peace in the region. Canada strongly supports the diplomatic efforts now underway to bring an end to the current exchange of attacks.

PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555