Israel's reaction is aggression not self-defence

Arab League (AL) Secretary General Amr Moussa voiced deep concern over the Israeli shelling of President Yasser Arafat's residence in Gaza and Palestinian Authority (PA) outposts on Monday.

Replying queries, Moussa said that the Israeli siege and violence should be put into consideration.

He added that the continued violence and counter-violence create a vicious circle.

It's time for a swift and immediate end to this vicious circle, said Moussa, asserting that political initiatives should be given priority to defuse the crisis and help resume negotiations for a final-status solution.

The continued occupation will breed more Palestinian anger and frustration and the provocative measures of the Israeli occupation will surely lead to more angry reactions, the AL chief said.

The international community should not stand on the fence watching but rather should act seriously, said Moussa.

He added that revenge will only lead to more counter revenge.

The Israelis are not acting in self-defence, stresses Moussa, adding that the Palestinian people is the party acting in self defence against the military occupation forces.