Chirac criticizes Israel over Beit al-Sharq issue

French President Jacques Chirac on Tuesday criticized the Israeli decision provided for closing down offices in Beit al-Sharq (Orient House) in occupied Jerusalem. He described this measure an "an extremely clumsy and probably dangerous act." AFP quoted Chirac, currently in Finland on an official visit, as saying that such Israeli measure is "very grave and dangerous."

The statements made by the French president in this regard were in reply to a question during a joint press conference he held at the conclusion of his meeting with Finnish Prime Minister.