Israeli authorities urged to commission international inquiry

Posted: 31 May 2010

Amnesty International interim Secretary General called for an international inquiry into the deaths caused by the raid on the aid flotilla in international waters outside Gaza today.

“Given the international nature of this incident and the continuing lack of credible Israeli investigations into violations of human rights in the context of the Gaza conflict, there is also a need for an immediate international investigation,” said Claudio Cordone interim Secretary General of Amnesty International.

“The Israeli authorities have the primary responsibility to investigate the use of lethal force by its forces, as well as the claims by Israeli officials that Israeli forces were attacked with a range of weapons. But for full credibility and transparency, Israel should invite the relevant UN experts to carry out an investigation into the events of 31 May.”

“Beyond this tragedy, however, it is imperative that Israel lifts the blockade of Gaza without delay, as it is a form of collective punishment in contravention of international law and primarily affects the most vulnerable among the population.”