Special report: Israel launches Gaza assault

    WELLINGTON, July 6 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand has expressed concern at the escalating violence between Israel and Palestinians, said Foreign Minister Winston Peters ThNZ concerned about Gaza situation in Palestineursday.

    "New Zealand calls on those holding the Israeli soldier hostageto facilitate his release. At the same time we are deeply concerned at the detention by Israel of democratically elected members of the Palestinian Parliament," said Peters in a statement.

    "We call for an end to all terrorist activities. It is disastrous that recent events have led to the military wing of Hamas terminating its ceasefire with Israel, and we call for it tobe resumed."

    Peters said urgent action is needed to ensure adequate provision of electricity, water and sewerage facilities to the civilian population of Gaza.

    "We also call for an end to the destruction of vital infrastructure in Gaza. All steps must be taken to prevent a humanitarian crisis and ensure the transit of essential supplies of food, fuel and medicine," said Peters.

    "We hope that a way will be found to resolve the current situation by peaceful means. Diplomatic negotiations rather than violence are needed to resolve the situation," said the New Zealand foreign minister.

    "We urge both parties to redirect their efforts towards findinga pathway for dialogue," said Peters. Enditem