BAGHDAD, March 31 (Xinhua) -- The Iraqi Foreign Ministry on Tuesday strongly condemned Israel's approval of a bill that permits the "execution of Palestinian prisoners," calling it a "grave violation" of international law.
In a statement, the ministry described the move as a dangerous escalation that contravenes the Geneva Conventions and international humanitarian law.
Israel's parliament on Monday approved a bill making the death penalty the default punishment for Palestinians in the West Bank convicted of "terrorism," drawing widespread international criticism.
In the statement, the Iraqi ministry also denounced the ongoing attacks by Israeli forces in southern Lebanon, including ground incursions, adding that these actions represent a "flagrant violation of international law and a direct threat to regional security and stability."
The statement specifically highlighted the "serious risks" facing the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), noting that escalating hostilities and deteriorating field conditions jeopardize international personnel.
The ministry called on the international community to uphold international law and protect both civilians and international mission personnel, and work toward de-escalation to preserve regional peace and security.
Two more Indonesian personnel serving in the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon were confirmed dead on Monday evening, bringing the total number of Indonesian peacekeepers killed in the country to three, according to Indonesian authorities on Tuesday. The soldiers were part of the Indonesian contingent deployed under the UNIFIL. ■
