Monday, May 31, 2010

UK PM Cameron in phone call with Netanyahu urges Israel to 'respond constructively' to criticism

(AFP).Prime Minister David Cameron urged his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday to "respond constructively to legitimate criticism" of its storming of an aid ship bound for Gaza.

Cameron told Netanyahu in a telephone conversation that Britain "deplored the heavy loss of life" after at least nine people died when Israeli commandos raided the ship.

"He reiterated the UK's strong commitment to Israel's security, but urged Israel to respond constructively to legitimate criticism of its actions, and to do everything possible to avoid a repeat of this unacceptable situation," a spokesman for Cameron said.

"The PM also stressed the importance of urgently lifting the blockade of Gaza, and allowing full access for humanitarian aid."