End Gaza strikes, UN human rights chief tells Israel

Geneva, July 11 (IANS) UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay Friday warned against Israeli military operations that have killed Palestinian civilians in Gaza, and the indiscriminate firing of rockets from Gaza into Israel.

The high commissioner urged all sides to abide by their obligations under international human rights and humanitarian laws, Xinhua reported.

"Israel, Hamas, and Palestinian armed groups in Gaza have been down this road before, and it has led only to death, destruction, distrust and a painful prolongation of the conflict," Pillay said.

In particular, she warned that attacks must not be directed against civilians or civilian objects, nor should military assets be located in densely-populated areas or attacks be launched from such areas.

Latest reports show the toll in Gaza has mounted to above 100, with hundreds more injured.

Israeli media said over 800 strikes have been carried out since the operation began with 60 Thursday morning alone.

Reports also showed Palestinian armed groups fired a total of 809 rockets and 61 mortars, and that as of midday Thursday, nine Israeli civilians were injured while fleeing to shelters.