German leader wants 'drastic sanctions' against Israel

A German opposition leader Tuesday called for "drastic sanctions" against Israel for its brutal military actions in the Palestinian-controlled areas, accusing Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of conducting a "war-mongering policy," IRNA reported today.

"If the UN Security Council does not want to make itself look ridiculous, it must impose drastic sanctions against Israel," said the deputy chairman of the opposition Liberal Free Democratic Party, Juergen Moellemann during an interview with the private television news network N-TV.

The IRNA report said Moellemann urged a stop to all economic and military aid to Israel. "Sharon's policy is war-mongering," Moellemann added. Moellemann has criticized Sharon for "violating human rights and conducting state terrorism."