Press Release
PCHR condemns attacks against private properties
Ref: 130/2000
Date: October 14, 2000
Israeli occupation forces continue their use of excessive force against Palestinian civilians in the occupied Palestinian territories, in which 90 people have been killed and 2300 injured. Local, Arab and international reactions have condemned this use of excessive force, including the use on Thursday of combat helicopters to shell several areas in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. The occupied Palestinian territories remain under military siege and comprehensive closure resulting in social and economic suffering by Palestinian civilians.
In this context, PCHR is shocked by and deeply concerned about attacks carried out yesterday afternoon by some people in Gaza City against private properties. These properties were burned, apparently, because it was believed that alcohol was sold on the premises.
PCHR condemns these actions, which undermine the rule of law and place both civilians and their properties in danger.
Yesterday afternoon Palestinian people and national and Islamic forces demonstrated peacefully to express their anger at the Israeli occupation forces’ actions and crimes against Palestinian civilians. Some participants in one of these marches in Gaza City attacked Al-Tahoona Hotel and Restaurant (‘Windmill Hotel’) and burnt it. They also attacked two houses and one store and burnt them, with disregard for the safety of any civilians present. According to information gathered by PCHR’s field officers, these buildings were targeted because it was believed that alcohol had been sold on the premises.
PCHR strongly condemns such attacks against citizens’ properties, which could threaten the lives of people on the premises. Such actions cannot be justified for any reason. PCHR calls on the Palestinian National Authority to take the necessary legal steps to protect citizens’ lives and properties. PCHR calls also on all national and Islamic forces and NGO’s to denounce such actions, particularly at this critical time, when efforts must be concentrated on facing continued aggression by the Israeli occupation forces against the Palestinian people.
