Panafrican News Agency

AU chairperson 'strongly condemns' air strikes by Israel in Gaza

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (PANA) - The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) Moussa Faki Mahamat has strongly condemned the air strike attacks by Israel on Gaza that have killed more than 30 Palestinian civilians, including six children.

A statement by the AU said: "The Chairperson reiterates that targeting of civilians and the continued illegal occupation by Israeli security forces of the Occupied Territories, are in stark violation of international law, and complicate the search for a just and lasting solution."

Mr. Mahamat reaffirmed the unwavering support of the AU with the Palestinian people in their legitimate quest for an independent and sovereign State with East Jerusalem as it's capital.

He also called for the urgent need of "renewed and genuine international efforts" to find a just and lasting solution based on the right of the existence of two States, Israel and Palestine, within the framework of relevant existing AU and UN commitments.

Last Friday, the Israeli military announced the start of an operation in the Gaza Strip dubbed "Dawn", in which it targeted sites and personalities affiliated with the Islamic Jihad Movement, killing one of its leaders, Taysir al-Jabari.

-0- PANA MA 8Aug2022