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Ban condemns Hamas violation of ceasefire

NEW YORK, Aug 1 (KUNA) -- "Shocked and profoundly disappointed," UN Secretary-General on Friday "condemns in the strongest terms" the reported violation by Hamas of the mutually agreed humanitarian ceasefire which began earlier today, his spokesman Stephane Dujarric told the daily press briefing. He said that although the UN has "no independent means to verify exactly what happened," two Israeli soldiers were killed and one taken captive after the humanitarian ceasefire came into effect. "This would constitute a grave violation of the ceasefire, and one that is likely to have very serious consequences for the people of Gaza, Israel and beyond," he warned, calling into question the credibility of Hamas' assurances to the UN when it accepted yesterday the 72-hour humanitarian ceasefire. "The Secretary-General demands the immediate and unconditional release of the captured soldier," he insisted. Ban is also "deeply concerned" about the resumption of Israeli attacks on Gaza and the killing of over 70 Palestinians this morning. "Instead of giving both sides, especially Gazan civilians, a much needed reprieve to let them attend to their injured, bury their dead and repair vital infrastructure, this breach of the ceasefire is now leading to a renewed escalation," he noted. Ban urged both sides to show "maximum restraint" and return to the agreed 72-hour humanitarian ceasefire that tragically lasted such a brief period of time, and appealed to those with influence over the parties to do everything to convince them to observe the humanitarian ceasefire. (end) sj.gb