ISLAMABAD, April 3: Pakistan on Wednesday said the relentless escalation of Israeli military aggression against the Palestinians and the violation of Lebanese airspace by Israeli fighter bombers could widen the area of conflict.

Condemning the Israeli military offensive against the people of Palestine, Pakistan said these acts were in contravention of the norms of international law and the UN Security Council resolution 1402 of March 30.

A statement issued by the foreign office said that the aggression was taking place despite the UN Security Council Resolution which calls upon Israel to withdraw its troops from all Palestinian cities and implement a meaningful ceasefire.

“These acts of bellicosity, Israel’s continuing siege of President Arafat’s headquarters, prime minister Sharon’s threat to exile him permanently, the killing of Palestinian civilians and security personnel, deliberate shooting at journalists, the cordoning of Ramallah and Bethlehem as military zones, and incursions into several West Bank cities constitute a grave offence against humanity and a mounting threat to regional peace and stability,” the statement said.

Pakistan said the humanitarian crisis was further aggravated by Israel’s disruption of water, food and medical supplies which is endangering the lives of the civilian Palestinians.

Pakistan reiterated its call to the international community to compel Israel to end violence, withdraw immediately from the Palestine Authority territories and resume negotiations to ensure enduring regional peace and security.