Australia calls for immediate cease-fire

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Source: CCTV.com | 01-06-2009 10:03

Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, is calling for a diplomatic solution to bring an immediate cease-fire to Gaza.

Meanwhile, protesters around the world continue to condemn the Israeli offensive.

Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, is calling for a diplomatic solution to bring an immediate cease-fire to Gaza.(CCTV.com)

Rudd said his government recognizes Israel's right of self-defense but supports a diplomatic solution to bring an immediate cease-fire.

Kevin Rudd, Australian Prime Minister, said, "Australia is deeply concerned by continued violence in Gaza and in southern Israel. Australia recognises Israel's right to self-defence, while we call on all parties to avoid any actions which result in unnecessary suffering, or increased suffering, on the part of innocent civilians."

Rudd also called on Israel to open border crossings into Gaza and ensure residents there have basic human rights. Those include access to food, medical supplies and humanitarian assistance.

Meanwhile, thousands of people rallied in cities across the US on Sunday in protest against Israel's attacks.

In Washington DC, protestors gathered outside the Capitol building and demanded that Congress call for an immediate cease-fire, and for Israel to withdraw its ground troops from the Gaza Strip.

They also urged Congress to allow humanitarian supplies and aid workers to enter Gaza.

And demonstrators across Europe and Asia have marched and rallied to demand an end to the attacks.

Editor:Zhang Pengfei