CFPN condemns rockets, urges restraint
Canadian Friends of Peace Now condemns the barrage of rocket fire from Gaza deep into Israel aimed at civilian targets. The hundreds of rockets have created hardship for Israel, but thus far no serious casualties, but that is not for lack of intent. The attacks demonstrate that security is still an ever-present concern for Israel.
The reaction of the terrorist group, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, to Israel's targeted killing of one of its leaders, and an attempt on another in Damascus, was to be expected, and the timing of the assassination has raised doubts in some minds. Could there have been a political motive behind Benjamin Netanyahu's signing off on these military actions at this moment of jockeying to create a new government for Israel? The doubts say much about the sorry state of Netanyahu's credibility. However, the questions about timing are speculation that would be extremely difficult to verify. And the fact remains that indiscriminate attacks on civilian populations are still inexcusable.
We echo the call by the European Union (which condemned the rocket fire) to protect all civilians on both sides and to de-escalate the situation. We encourage diplomatic efforts to end this round of violence and prevent further cycles. Much diplomacy and brave leadership on all sides will be needed to improve the dangerous, tragic and highly complex state of affairs in Gaza.