The Turkish parliament on Wednesday unanimously adopted a declaration urging the UN Security Council to impose sanctions against Israel in connection with a recent deadly attack on a Gaza-bound aid convoy.
The Israeli military stormed the Freedom Flotilla, carrying some 10,000 tons of aid and up to 700 human rights to Gaza, in neutral waters in the Mediterranean Sea on Monday. The operation claimed the lives of at least 9 people. Arab media reports put the death toll at close to 20.
"This attack is a blatant violation of the UN Charter and the international law. In this respect, the Turkish parliament expects the Security Council to adopt as soon as possible a resolution condemning Israel and imposing sanctions," the parliament said.
The parliament also urged the Turkish government "to review political, military, trade and economic ties with Israel and take the necessary effective measures."
It also expressed its support for the premier's initiative to establish an independent international commission to investigate the circumstances of the attack.
"The Israeli government should officially apologize for the attack, bring those responsible to justice and pay compensations to the victims," the declaration says.
The statement also urged "the speedy abolishment of the inhumane blockade and embargo imposed on Gaza."
ANKARA, June 2 (RIA Novosti)
