UN condemns collapse of truce between Israel, Palestinians

UN chief Ban Ki-moon has strongly condemned the collapse of a humanitarian ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, asking Israel and

the Palestinians factions to reach an immediate understanding on a durable truce.

A statement issued by Ban's spokesman said he is "gravely disappointed" by the return to hostilities by both sides and condemns "in the strongest terms" the breach of the Egyptian brokered humanitarian ceasefire which was to expire at midnight local time.

The Secretary-General reminds both sides of their responsibility not to let the situation escalate.

(Courtessy:Deccan Herald dt. 20 Aug 2014)