PM: No to 48-hour ceasefire, yes to American initiative




Prime Minister Ehud Olmert rejected the EU request for a 48-hour ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, saying that Israel will uphold its commitment to provide basic foodstuffs and medicines to the residents of the Gaza Strip.

 

"Look where they are shooting. They are reaching Gedera. Before the lull, they were shooting 20 kilometers (9 miles). After the lull, they are shooting 40 kilometers (18 miles). If there is another lull, they will reach 60 kilometers (25 miles) and more. I respect the UN and its institutions, but right now we must act in accordance with the regional initiative lead by the Americans and to put an 'international blanket' over the fire in Gaza," said Olmert. (Roni Sofer)