SG/SM/8917

7 October 2003

SECRETARY-GENERAL STRONGLY CONDEMNS HAIFA SUICIDE BOMBING, URGES ALL PARTIES TO SHOW UTMOST RESTRAINT

NEW YORK, 6 October (UN Headquarters) -- Following is a statement issued by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan on 4 October:

The Secretary-General strongly condemns the horrific suicide bombing that killed at least 18 people in Haifa, Israel, today.  His thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims.  The Secretary-General reiterates yet again his utter repugnance at all acts of terror, from whatever quarter.  He calls on the Palestinian Authority to do everything in its power to halt these vicious attacks, which only harm the Palestinian cause.

The Secretary-General urges all parties to show utmost restraint during this extremely dangerous and difficult period.

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