Israel Matzav

G-8 much firmer on Israel than on Iran

The G-8 met this weekend in Canada, and as expected the declaration against Israel was far stronger than the declaration against Iran.

While expressing regret for the loss of life on the Mavi Marmara on May 31, the G-8 said it approved of Israel’s decision to set up an independent commission to investigate the incident.

In addition, the G-8 asked all parties to abide by UN Security Council Resolution 1860 to guarantee the stream of humanitarian aid to Gaza, calling for a change to existing policies.

While welcoming the government’s decision to ease the Gaza blockade, it urged “full and effective implementation of this policy in order to address the needs of Gaza’s population for humanitarian and commercial goods, civilian reconstruction and infrastructure, and legitimate economic activity.”

The statement added, however, that Israel’s security concerns were legitimate and needed to be protected.

Reiterating its statement from the previous year, the G-8 demanded the immediate release of IDF soldier Gilad Schalit, abducted four years ago on the Gaza border.

Additionally, the G-8 called on all states to implement UNSC resolution 1929 and expressed deep concern for Iran’s lack of transparency regarding its nuclear program and declared intention to enrich uranium to almost 20 percent.

“Our goal is to persuade Iran’s leaders to engage in a transparent dialogue about its nuclear activities and to meet Iran’s international obligations,” the statement said.

They'll still be talking when Iran explodes its first few nukes. Bet on it.

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 5:35 PM