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UN chief condemns aid flotilla raid, calls for full investigation

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UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said on Monday that he condemned the Israeli attack on the aid flotilla heading for Gaza and called for a full investigation.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon

"I condemn this violence. It is vital that there is a full investigation to determine exactly how this bloodshed took place," he said at a press briefing after the opening ceremony of the first review conference of International Criminal Court. He said he was shocked by the incident.

"I believe Israel must urgently provide a full explanation," he noted, saying he has instructed special coordinator to actively engage on the ground in urging restraint in ensuring that no further harm is done and coordinate with all the relevant parties.

The world was plunged in shock after Israeli forces attacked a fleet of aid-carrying ships bound for Gaza on Monday, leaving at least 15 people killed.

The attack in international waters, 65 km off the Gaza coast, has drawn quick criticism from many countries in Europe and Arab world.