Top UN human rights expert group deplore high price paid by civilians in Gaza and Israel
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Palais Wilson in Geneva, seat of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rigts
The largest body of independent experts in the United Nations Human Rights system on Friday expressed their deep dismay at the high price paid by civilians in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel during the recent escalation of violence.
Chairman of the Coordination Committee set up by the independent experts charged by the UN Human Rights Council to address specific country situations and thematic issues in all parts of the world, Michel Forst says the committee utterly condemns all attacks against civilians, adding "now that calm has been restored, [their] immediate thoughts go to the Palestinian and Israeli victims, especially women and children".
Forst says "the current situation shows once again that it is crucial for all parties to refrain from using force. Violence must not restart."
While welcoming the cease fire announced in Cairo, the human rights expert group called for the protection of civilians to be prioritised at all times.
Donn Bobb, United Nations
Duration: 52″
