International reactions to the Gaza War (2008–2009)

Main article: 2008–2009 Israel–Gaza conflict

Israeli supporters in Santiago, Chile.

Palestinian supporters in Bratislava, Slovakia.

International reaction to the 2008-2009 Israel-Gaza conflict came from many countries and international organisations. International reaction to the conflict was also notable in the level of civilian demonstrations all around the world, which in many cases displayed sentiment significantly different from the official government line.

Official reactions

Involved parties

Entity	Reactions
Israel	Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said "we tried to avoid, and I think quite successfully, to hit any uninvolved people - we attacked only targets that are part of the Hamas organisations". Arab member of Knesset, Jamal Zahalka, called for indicting the Israeli Defense Minister, Ehud Barak, for war crimes against the Palestinian people in a protest at Nazareth. Around 150,000 people took part in protests in the Arab city of Sakhnin, condemning "Israeli war crimes" in Gaza and the Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak.
Palestinian National Authority	President Mahmoud Abbas condemned the attacks and called for restraint. Speaking from Cairo, he said Hamas could have avoided the attacks. He further called Israeli attacks "barbaric and criminal aggression", and threatened to cut off negotiations with Israel.
Hamas	Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas' leader in Gaza and head of the democratically-elected Palestinian government, called Israel's attacks an "ugly massacre". The leader of Hamas in Damascus, Khaled Meshal, threatened revenge attacks, saying "the time for the third Intifada has come".

International Organisations

Organisation	Reactions
Arab League	The Arab League was planning on holding an emergency summit in Cairo on December 28, to discuss the attack. The summit was delayed to January 2, 2009 and will be held in Doha.
OIC	The Organisation of the Islamic conference issued a communiqué condemnning the "brutal and sustained aggression". The communiqué also called for the Palestinian factions to end their differences and noted the OIC's continued aid works in Gaza and its support for the PNA and other "legitimate institutions". The OIC has requested all "peace loving nations" work to call the UN general assembly.
European Union	A spokesman for the European Union’s Foreign Policy Chief, Javier Solana, called "for an immediate ceasefire" and urged "everybody to exert maximum restraint". It called for an "unconditional halt" of Hamas rocket attacks and Israeli military action. It also asked for the delivery of food, medical aid and fuel to Gaza, the evacuation of the injured from Gaza, and the permission for humanitarian aid workers to enter area. European Parliament President Hans-Gert Pöttering expressed his "deepest regret" over the escalation of the Gaza conflict between Israel and Hamas, calling for an "immediate end to the violence on both sides".
ICRC	The International Committee of the Red Cross called "for restraint as hospitals overwhelmed by scale of emergencies". Later on, it continued to emphasise its medical and humanitarian concerns.
Non-Aligned Movement	The Non-Aligned Movement voiced its strong condemnation of the escalation of the Israeli military aggression in the Gaza Strip and called upon Israel to end the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.
Mercosur	Mercosur released an official statement expressing "concern and repudiation towards the spiral of violence and intimidation taking place in the Gaza Strip". The organisation urged "both sides to end hostilities and formulate a call for the immediate resumption of dialogue, so as to ensure peace and justice in the region".
File:Seal of the Organization of American States (English title).svg Organization of American States	The Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), José Miguel Insulza, expressed today his “absolute rejection” of the Israeli bombing of the Gaza Strip and urged its immediate halt. At the same time, he called for restoration of the cease-fire, an end to the embargo on the Gaza Strip, and the establishment of a new peace initiative.
United Nations	The United Nations - Secretary General Ban Ki-moon spokesperson stated that "the secretary general is deeply alarmed by today’s heavy violence and bloodshed in Gaza, and the continuation of violence in southern Israel". Ban condemned Israel’s "excessive use of force leading to the killing and injuring of civilians" and ‘the ongoing rocket attacks by Palestinian militants’". He appealed for "an immediate halt to all violence [and reiterated] previous calls for humanitarian supplies to be allowed into Gaza to aid the distressed civilian population." The United Nations Security Council called on December 28th "for an immediate halt to all violence". The World Health Organization called on the immediate cessation of violence and the removal of the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip, warning that the present situation will result in "preventable deaths". The UN Human Rights Council approved a resolution condemning Israel's military offensive in Gaza saying it has "resulted in massive violations of human rights of the Palestinian people."
African Union	The African Union released a press statement stating the following: "The Commission of the African Union (AU) is following with great concern the prevailing situation in the Gaza Strip. The Commission strongly condemns the ongoing air raids on the Gaza Strip by Israel, since 27 December 2008, which has resulted so far in the death of more than 300 Palestinians, while about 1,000 others, including women and children, have been injured."

Non-governmental organisations

Organisation	Reactions
Amnesty International	Amnesty International expressed that "It is utterly unacceptable for Israel to continue to purposefully deprive 1.5 million people of food and other basic necessities. Such a policy cannot be justified on any security or other grounds and must end immediately," said Amnesty International. The organisation "also calls once again on Hamas and all other Palestinian armed groups in Gaza to stop firing indiscriminate rockets against towns and villages in southern Israel".
Caritas Internationalis	Caritas Internationalis described the "devastating concequences" of Israeli actions in Gaza highlighting the desperate need for beds, medicines and medical staff. It expressed concern over the difficulty Gazan medical personell were having in reaching the wounded and commented on the high number of women and children being wounded. Caritas has called for the "immediate end" to Hamas rocket attacks and the Israeli offensive.
Norwegian People's Aid	The Norwegian People's Aid issued the following statement: "Israel’s actions on the Gaza Strip must be characterised as war crimes. The massive attacks affecting people who are not combatants, the disproportionate military use of violence and the blockade of an entire population are clear breaches of the international law for humanitarian concerns as laid down in the 4th Geneva Convention, both where the obligations of an occupying power and the rules of warfare are concerned."
World Council of Churches	The WCC condemned all violence in Gaza, and called for an immediate end to the violence on December 30, 2008.

Countries

International reaction to the 2008–2009 Israel–Gaza conflict

  Israel-Gaza

  States that have endorsed the Israeli position or condemned only Hamas.

  States that have condemned only Israeli action.

  States that have neutrally called for halt of the hostilities on both sides.

  States with no reported position at present.

Country	Notes
Afghanistan	Afghanistan on described the Israeli attacks against Palestinians in Gaza Strip as barbaric and strongly denounced it. "We strongly condemn the barbaric attacks of Israel forces against civilians and defenseless people of Palestine in Gaza strip," President Hamid Karzai's chief spokesman Hamayon Hamidzada said at a press conference.
Albania	The Ministry of Foreign Affairs "calls upon the parties for tranquility and maturity by expressing its belief that both parties will show self restrain and will turn back to bilateral discussions as the only way for the stabilisation of the situation to the benefit of the two peoples and the whole Middle East region".
Algeria	Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia said "In the name of government, I express our strong condemnation of crimes against humanity perpetrated by Israel for a week against Gaza’s people.".
Argentina	The government of Argentina called for "a return to dialogue and negotiations without delay" and expressed its "deep regret" over the acts of violence taking place, urging both Israel to "end all bombings on Gaza strip" and Hamas to "end its rocket attacks on Israeli territory". The note from the Foreign Ministry also urged Israel to "allow and preserve permanently the normal flow of supplies and services to fulfill the urgent needs of the population of Gaza" and called for a truce between both parties and a return to negotiations, so that "a fair and lasting peace" could be achieved.
Armenia	The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an statement, declaring: "We are deeply concerned about the events in Gaza Strip, during which hundreds of people have already been killed or wounded. We express hope that the violations will stop and negotiations will immediately start for the solution of all disputable issues in a peaceful way."
Australia	Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said that Australia recognises Israel's right to self-defence, and that "The escalation in the conflict, following the (action by) Israeli ground forces, underlines the absolute importance of bringing about an effective diplomatic solution." He also said that "It is critical, therefore, for Israel to meet its humanitarian obligations under international humanitarian law towards the people of Gaza, ensuring that they have access to basic goods, food and humanitarian assistance and medical supplies." A press statement from Julia Gillard, deputy Prime Minister, states "While recognising Israel’s right to defend itself from such indiscriminate attacks, the Australian Government supports the United Nations Security Council’s call for an immediate halt to all violence."
Austria	Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger said "The unilateral announcement of the end to the ceasefire by Hamas was clearly a step in the wrong direction. We demand an immediate stop to the rocket attacks against Israel from within the Gaza Strip. The right of the Israeli people to a life in peace and security without permanent threat from rocket attacks must be guaranteed. […] Israel's legitimate right to self-defence is undisputable. It is clear, however, that even during military operations, international law must be complied with.The large number of civilian victims in recent days is unacceptable."
Bahrain	The Bahraini Parliament Council strongly condemned "the barbaric massacre by the israeli enemy against the unarmed Palestinians in Gaza that clashes clearly with all religions, ethics and international accords".
Bangladesh	Prime Minister-designate Sheikh Hasina condemned Israeli attack and called on Muslim leaders to help stop the attacks.
Belarus	The Republic of Belarus condemned the use of force "the loss of life among the peaceful population of Palestine and Israel. The conflicting parties should immediately cease hostilities and embark on handling the existing problems by way of negotiations".
Belgium	Minister of Foreign Affairs De Gucht expressed "horror and dismay at the dramatic rise in the number of victims of Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip".
Bolivia	The Bolivian government strongly condemned the Israeli air strikes of Palestinian territory of Gaza. Its statement said the- successive Israeli air strikes against -civilians in the Gaza Strip were crimes and the attacks represent a severe and massive violation of the International Humanitarian Law. On 14 January, Bolivia broke diplomatic relations with Israel and during a press conference President Evo Morales asked for the revocation of Shimon Peres's Nobel Peace Prize.
Bosnia and Herzegovina	Bosniak member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina Haris Silajdžić said that it was necessary to urgently terminate all military activities due to the growing number of civilian victims.
Botswana	Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Phandu Skelemani said "The Botswana position is that we don't need war. War has never brought any solution to problems. The downside about war is that it affects innocent elderly people, women and children, not those who initiate it." He emphasised Botswana's view that both parties "must learn to talk" to resolve their differences and that "If people have mouths and brains but decide to fight, then there is real poverty in their thinking. Neither Israel nor Gaza will disappear if both parties engage in dialogue, as opposed to war."
Brazil	The Ministry of External Relations of Brazil issued the following statement on December 27: "Brazil deplores the disproportionate Israeli reaction, as well as the launching of rockets against southern Israel." Following the escalation of the violence in Gaza, it added: "The Brazilian Government deplores the continued disproportionate actions by the Israeli Government in the Gaza Strip, which have caused, in only 3 days, the deaths of over 300 Palestinians, many of whom were civilians and children. Brazil calls on both parties to cease mutual hostilities immediately".
Brunei Darussalam	His Majesty’s Government condemns the military action taken by Israel in Gaza that has caused the death and injury of so many innocent Palestinians. In expressing its deep regret over such disproportionate use of force against the Palestinian people, Brunei Darussalam is concerned that the deterioration of the situation in Gaza may undermine international efforts to bring about a just and peaceful solution to the conflict. His Majesty’s Government reiterates its long-standing commitment to the rule of international law under the auspices of the United Nations and adds its voice to all those calling for utmost restraint by both sides.".
Bulgaria	Bulgaria's Foreign Affairs Ministry issued a statement on Sunday, which calls for cease-fire between Hamas and Israel in Gaza Strip. The statement has been announced by the institution's spokesman Dragovest Goranov. "We appeal to the both sides in the conflict avoid violence that has already took many human lives", the statement reads.
Canada	Canada’s foreign affairs minister, Lawrence Cannon, also issued a statement in which he pointed to Israel’s "clear right to defend itself" against continuing attacks by militants he accused of "deliberately" targeting civilians. "First and foremost, those rocket attacks must stop. At the same time, we urge both sides to use all efforts to avoid civilian casualties and to create the conditions to allow safe and unhindered humanitarian access to those in need in Gaza". Cannon also urged renewed efforts to reach a truce. Canada also blamed the Hamas for the UNRWA school incident, in which 40 civilians were killed when Israeli shells hit the school. Canada's junior foreign minister Peter Kent added on Tuesday that there must be a strong, binding resolution to the conflict. "Canada believes there must be an immediate ceasefire, but only if it's durable ceasefire, and if Hamas is prevented or is willing not to rearm and resume its terrorist rocketing at some point down the road.
Chile	The Chilean Government formulates a call to an immediate cease of hostilities and provocations, "and deeply regrets the disproportionate use of force by Israel in the Palestinian territories. The Government of Chile reiterates its most absolute conviction that the military solution won't conduct to peace, to which Israelis as well as Palestinians have rights." In a meeting with representatives of both, Jewish and Palestinian communities in Chile, Foreign Minister Alejandro Foxley declared that "The Ministry will continue searching for a positive and constructive role. We have asked both communities, with whom we have had meetings here, moderation, and not to help to polarise matters, not escalating a conflict that through radicalisation has no solution". Chilean President Michelle Bachelet defended the government's stand on the Gaza situation. "Our biggest call is to stop all actions from both sides," she said, noting Chile will spare no efforts to facilitate a "reasonable solution."
China	"China expresses serious concern about the escalation of the tense situation in Gaza, denounces actions that cause injuries and deaths to ordinary people, opposes the use of military force in resolving disputes, appeals to related parties to exercise maximum restraint and to settle differences through dialogue", Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang in a statement posted on the ministry's website. During an official visit to Kuwait, Vice Premier Li Keqiang said he was shocked and seriously concerned by the military operations in Gaza. Li reiterated Chinese calls for an immediate ceasefire and stressed China's support for the peace process, saying, "China supports the efforts made by all parties, especially the Arab countries, to realise a comprehensive, just peace in the region".
Colombia	Minister of Foreign Affairs Jaime Bermúdez called for an end to "all types of military aggression and for a dialogue" between Israelis and Palestinians. Colombian government, expressed its "profound sadness and great worry faced with the violence in the Gaza Strip."
Congo, Republic of the	President Denis Sassou Nguesso called on the UN Security Council to "fully commit itself in order to end the armed confrontation between Israelis and Palestinians in the Gaza Strip". He said "While condemning the use of force and deploring the human losses as well as the sufferings of innocent people, we urge the international community, mainly the UN Security Council, to fully commit to end the language of weapons." He also said that any resolution of the crisis must be comprehensive, taking into account the right of both the Israeli and the Palestinian to exist.
Costa Rica	Foreign Ministry issued a statement saying "We condemn the excessive use of force by Israel, and we condemn terrorist acts by Hamas against Israeli territory, including the launching of rockets". The statement also expressed “deep concern” over civilian casualties in Gaza and called for greater humanitarian aid to Palestinians living there.
Croatia	Croatian President Stjepan Mesić expressed deep concern over the escalation of violence in the Middle East and said that a "solution cannot be reached with wars or shelling civilian targets in Israel, or actions by suicide bombers in which innocent people are killed without exception, or massive military retaliation operations such as the attack on Gaza. Peace and coexistence with the recognition of reality are the only perspective of the Middle East. As a country that considers itself with reason a friend of Israel, but also Arabic countries and the Palestine people, and as a member of the Security Council, Croatia expects the United Nations to undertake urgent, rational and constructive steps to prevent a further escalation of violence in the Middle East.".
Cuba	In a statement issued in Havana, the Cuban Revolutionary Government called the Israeli military operation "criminal", terming it as "the bloodiest attack Israel has ever launched against the Palestinian people".
Cyprus	Both Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders condemned the violence, "Israeli forces' use of disproportionate power," and called for the immediate cease-fire. In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus also emphasised the need for direct peace talks of the Israeli and Palestinian leaderships towards a comprehensive solution to the Palestinian problem, and the positive role neighboring countries can play. The Government of the Republic of Cyprus expresses its support to the Palestinian Authority and emphasises the prospect of intra-Palestinian reconciliation efforts under the mediation of Egypt, considering that there can not be a military solution to the issue of Gaza.
Czech Republic	Czech foreign affairs minister Karel Schwarzenberg said that "Israel has the right to take military action against attacks on locations where its civilians live" and that "no political dialogue is possible because of Hamas's attacks on Israeli settlements. However", Schwarzenberg also said, "it is unfortunate that the living conditions in Gaza are very bad. These conditions need to be changed in such a way that they do not make young people join radical organisations". Schwarzenberg also condemned Hamas' placement of strategic military targets in densely populated areas, and hinted that this likely elevated civilian casualties. Czech prime minister Mirek Topolánek, the current boss of the EU presidency, said through his spokesman for the presidency issues, Mr Jiří Potužník, that he understood the Israeli actions to be defensive in character. Pressure from some old EU member countries has led Mr Potužník to retract the statement and apologise for this actual attitude of the current EU presidency that was not allowed to become the official attitude of the EU.
Denmark	In a press release, Danish Foreign Minister Per Stig Møller expressed his concerns for the escalating crisis in Gaza, saying that "The new spiral of violence in the Middle East is deeply disturbing. The spiral of violence was started by Hamas and were yesterday and today disproportionately responded upon by Israel". He also said that "Although Israel has a right to defend itself against terror and terror rockets, civilian casualties are unacceptable". According to the foreign minister, a political agreement the only way forward, concluding that "If the fighting continues, it will only favour Hamas". On January 7, Denmark has summoned the Israeli ambassador in Copenhagen in protest at attacks on clinics run by a Danish charity in Gaza. On January 13, Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen said that the criticism of the Israeli operations on the Gaza strip was "one-sided". While he urged both sides to "immediately cease hostilities", he said that it was Hamas that had started the conflict by launching rockets on Israel, and that the many photographs of killed Palestinain civilians in Gaza should be seen in the correct context.
Ecuador	President Rafael Correa issued a statement saying "Ecuador joins the call to implement a condemnation of Israel for crimes against humanity committed against the Palestinian people living in Gaza Strip".
El Salvador	In an official statement, the president of El Salvador, Elias Antonio Saca and the foreign minister, Marisol Argueta de Barillas, expressed concern about the conflict and deplored the "appalling consequences for the civilian population". President said that "both Jews and Palestinians have to understand they have to coexist".
Egypt	Egypt condemned the Israeli attacks, but Egypt’s foreign minister, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, said that Egypt has long warned Hamas that this would be Israel’s response should Qassam fire continue. As a result of many protests, Egypt opened up the Rafah Border Crossing to allow the wounded into Egyptian hospitals. The Egyptian Ministry of Health sent 30 buses to North Sinai to help transport injured Palestinians. The Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs said that Hamas does not allow the wounded Gazans to cross the borders to Egypt. Egypt also deployed 500 CSF anti-riot police along the border.
Eritrea	Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement saying "The people and Government of Eritrea express deep and unreserved sympathy to the innocent and defenseless Palestinian people in Gaza who are currently being subjected to unacceptable atrocities. Underlining that the Bush Administration holds primary responsibility for this act, the people and Government of Eritrea hope that the incoming Barack Obama Administration would assume its historic responsibility."
Estonia	Foreign Minister Urmas Paet emphasised that Estonia is calling upon Israel and the Palestinian Authority to make an effort to resume talks. "Estonia condemns Hamas's decision not to extend the cease-fire agreement and to continue using terrorist methods to achieve its goals," stressed. Also expressed concern over the violence that has erupted in the region and occasioned many civilian deaths and the destruction of buildings and structures. "We are calling for an end to all violence and the restoration of the cease-fire agreement, for currently the number of civilian victims is continuously growing".
Finland	Minister Alexander Stubb, has declared that "Finland condemns the escalation of violence in Gaza and urges the parties to calm down the situation. Finland is particularly worried about the rapid deterioration of the civilian living conditions in Gaza. The Israeli air strikes have demanded a disproportionate amount of civilian victims and they must end immediately. Simultaneously Hamas and other extremist groups must immediately cease their rocket attacks. The parties must reinstate the truce without delay."
France	France’s president Nicolas Sarkozy stated he "firmly condemns the irresponsible provocations that have led to this situation, as well as the disproportionate use of force". France condemned the Israeli ground offensive that was initiated on January 3.. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that "France condemns the Israeli land offensive against Gaza, as it condemns the ongoing rocket launches" On 8 January, Prime Minister François Fillon qualified the humanitarian situation in Gaza as "intolerable" and stated: "while France has from the start condemned rocket launches from Gaza, as she condemns rocket launches from Lebanese territory, we also think that nothing justifies the suffering inflicted to civilian populations who live trapped in the Gaza strip".
Gabon	President Omar Bongo said "Gabon, like all countries that have already spoken on the issue, is campaigning for a cease-fire and resumption of negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians".
Gambia	Gambian President Yahya Jammeh has called on "civilised members of the human race" to rise up against "this holocaust that has been unleashed on the helpless Palestinians, whose lands, human dignity and right to peaceful and dignified existence in their own country are being blatantly violated with impunity." In his new year message, President Jammeh said between 1939 and 1945, the whole world waged a war against Nazi Germany to free Jews from the holocaust being perpetrated against them. Jammeh said, however, that if Israel is carrying out similar "genocide/holocaust" against Palestinians on their soil, the international community must not allow that. "The whole world is watching with indifference while Palestinians fall victims of a brutal and inhuman occupying power that is bent on wiping them out", remarked. "This world would be a very dangerous and violent place if such blatant barbaric and genocidal behaviour is condoned by the world community," he added.
Georgia	“The escalation of tensions in the Gaza Strip… has been triggered by rocket attacks launched by Hamas against innocent Israeli civilians," read a Georgian foreign ministry statement.
Germany	German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier has told Hamas to end what he called its "unacceptable" rocket attacks on Israel, while urging the Jewish state to do everything it could to avoid civilian casualties. German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Monday said the blame for renewed violence in the Middle East can be pinned on Hamas. Speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert by phone, she said responsibility for the three-day-old Israeli air offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip lies "clearly and exclusively" with Hamas, according to government spokesman Thomas Steg.
Greece	Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis said Athens is aligned with the European Union presidency's statement over the worrisome developments. "A conflagration in the Middle East amid an international economic recession is a nightmare prospect that must be avoided at all costs ... The international community has a huge responsibility, it cannot remain idle; it must immediately assume initiatives for a de-escalation of tension". The minister further condemned "all violence and terrorism", saying that Hamas had "sparked" the conflict and Israel's response was "disporportionate".
Guatemala	Guatemala expressed "its condemnation of the missile launch by Palestinian groups against Israeli territory." It also said that it considered Israeli force "disproportionate," and that it would inevitably lead to loss of innocent lives and "a humanitarian tragedy."
Honduras	Government of Honduras called on Israel and Palestine to cease hostilities and expressed confidence that the United Nations can contribute to that achievement. The Honduran Foreign Ministry called for the UN, particularly the Security Council to work on "achieving a consensus to allow the immediate cessation of hostilities, to stop the loss of precious human lives and instability in this region".
Hungary	The statement of the Hungarian Foreign Ministry says that it "has been following with great attention and concern the latest eruption of violence in the Middle East and the increasing number of casualties. Hungary considers important the earliest ending of military activities. The perpetuated rocket attacks from the Gaza strip against Israel and the Israeli military operation in response threaten with a new cycle of violence. Hungary supports Israel’s right for self-defence within the framework of international law. In this context, it is of high importance to avoid civilian casualties and to guarantee continuously the humanitarian needs of the population in the Gaza strip. Hungary believes that violence caused by continuous provocations hinders any lasting settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Peace can only be achieved by compromises of the parties ready for substantive negotiations, supported by the international community including Hungary."
Iceland	Deputy Permanent Representative of Iceland to the UN made the following statement before the Security Council: "My country has condemned the killings of civilians and aligns itself with the Secretary-General of the UN as well as those member states which have called upon Israel to stop immediately its military actions in this densely populated area. Iceland has also condemned the firing of rockets from Gaza to terrorize Israeli civilians. Hamas bears a heavy responsibility for drawing civilians into the conflict zone. However, Israel’s actions in Gaza, the past two weeks, are both disproportionate and clearly contrary to international humanitarian law."
India	On December 29, India urged Israel to end its military operations against Palestinian civilians and expressed awareness of the "cross-border provocations" that led Israel to mount the operation. It urged an immediate end to Israei "use of force against Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip that has resulted in large numbers of casualties.". On December 30, India released a second statement condemning what it called Israel's "disproportionate" and "indiscriminate" use of force, and expressed disappointment at the large number of civilian casualties. On January 4, India condemned Israeli ground attack on Gaza.
Indonesia	President of Indonesia Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono said the Indonesian government remained consistent in supporting the struggle of the Palestinian people to maintain their rights and sovereignty. He said that "Israel`s unproportionally all-out war on Hamas with a great number of fatalities is an unforgettable human tragedy. We invite all parties to help stop the Israeli attacks and we will continue to support the Palestinian struggle. Indonesia finds it necessary for the UN Security Council to make a formal meeting and issue a resolution to force Israel halt its aggression." He also said that it was ironic that the raids occurred as people entered the Islamic new year and days before the new year of 2009 and that "We should pray that the earth will be more peaceful, but we've been torn by the situation in Palestine and Gaza".
Iran	The Iranian Foreign Ministry said that "Iran strongly condemns the Zionist regime’s wide-ranging attacks against the civilians in Gaza" and that "the raids against innocent people are unforgivable and unacceptable". Some Iranian wants to send volunteers to fight in Gaza against the Israelis. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei issued a religious decree to Muslims around the world on December 28, ordering them to "defend the defenseless women, children and people in Gaza in any way possible", and calling those who die as "martyr[s]". On the other hand, the first Iranian shipment of aid including medicine and food for the Gaza Strip landed in Cairo on December 28. The website of Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is showing a composite picture of scenes from Gaza, crowned by a burning Star of David. More than 70,000 Iranian student volunteers have registered to carry out attacks against Israel. Several riots broke out in Tehran where students demanded to be sent to Gaza where they could fight the Israelites.
Iraq	The Iraqi government condemned the attack, stating that: "the Iraqi government demands a halt to the military operations, that civilians’ lives are not unnecessarily exposed to danger and requests that the international community honour its responsibilities and take the required measures to stop the attack". The Dawa party of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki called on Islamic countries to cut relations with Israel and end all "secret and public talks" with it, while about 1,000 supporters of Muqtada al-Sadr staged a protest in eastern Baghdad. Ali al-Sistani, has called for decisive action by Arab and Muslim states for an end to Israeli attacks on Gaza. Though he condemned the operation, he stated that "supporting our brothers only with words is meaningless, considering the big tragedy they are facing."
Ireland	Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin, said "I condemn in the strongest terms Israel’s action in launching air strikes in Gaza against Hamas targets which have resulted in widespread civilian fatalities. These actions, far from ending the cycle of violence which has gripped both Gaza and southern Israel in recent weeks, are unfortunately only likely to escalate the situation and make the search for an effective ceasefire in Gaza even more difficult." To this he added, "I strongly condemn the firing of rockets into Israeli territory."
Italy	The Ministry of Foreign Affairs released the following statement on 4 January: "The Italian government, with the broad consensus of its parliament, recently reasserted Israel’s right to defend itself but, at the same time, launched an appeal to its Israeli friends that they do everything possible to ensure the protection of civilians and the dispatch of humanitarian aid. Once again the gravity and irresponsibility of Hamas’ violation of the truce is clear." Minister of Foreign Affairs Franco Frattini has called for a United Nations' Security Council resolution to bring an immediate ceasefire to the Gaza Strip. He said "The first point is for an immediate ceasefire, and the second is for an immediate resumption of humanitarian aid, some help. The third point on which we could have a consensus but is more difficult to achieve is the major request, that our American friends have formulated informally, for international observers to guarantee respect for the truce and humanitarian aid."
Jamaica	Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade issued a statement saying "The Government of Jamaica is deeply concerned at the recent escalation of the conflict in the Gaza Strip. We recognise Israel's right to protect its citizens. We are, however, alarmed at the disproportionate and excessive use of force displayed by the Israeli government, which has resulted in numerous casualties, including the deaths of hundreds of Palestinian civilians, as well as the destruction of infrastructure. The Israeli military action has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip resulting from the blockade by the Israeli government. We are no less concerned about the indiscriminate firing of rockets over many weeks into Israeli territory by Palestinian militants. This cycle of violence and retaliation impedes efforts to broker lasting peace in the region. We note the decision taken by Israel to temporarily cease hostilities for three hours, to create humanitarian corridors for the provision of fuel and supplies. While we welcome this development, such a temporary measure falls short of what is really required to bring tangible results on the ground. Consequently, Jamaica joins others in calling for a ceasefire and urges both parties to refrain from further action that could result in an escalation of the conflict. We also call for the immediate lifting of the Israeli blockade on the Gaza Strip and for the sustained opening of the Gaza Strip's border crossings with Israel. Jamaica further urges all parties to pursue diplomatic efforts in order to ensure the peaceful resolution of the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. In this regard, we call for the resumption of negotiations aimed at arriving at a permanent solution that would guarantee the security of Israel and the right of Palestinians to Statehood, in keeping with pertinent Security Council resolutions, in particular 242 (1967) and 338 (1973), that call on Israel to withdraw to its pre-1967 borders."
Japan	Japan called on Israel to exercise restraint and for Palestinian militants to halt rocket attacks as an Israeli offensive on the Gaza Strip killed more than 300 people. "Japan urges both parties to immediately halt the use of force in order not to escalate the violence further", Foreign Minister Hirofumi Nakasone said in a statement released late Sunday. Japan also indicated readiness to provide assistance to the Palestinians.
Jordan	King Abdullah II of Jordan urged Israel to "end the Gaza offensive". As an act of protest against the Israeli actions, an Israeli flag was burned on the floor of the Jordanian Parliament. Protests across the Jordanian capital Amman have also occurred daily since the Israeli attacks. Many Jordanians have called on the Government to close the Israeli Embassy in Amman, and requested the recall of the Jordanian ambassador to Israel. As a sign of respect and sorrow for the Palestinian people, many New Year's Eve celebrations across Jordan were called off. Jordanian Prime Minister Nader Dahabi stated that Amman reserves the right to reexamine its relations with Israel in the wake of its intensified military action on the Gaza Strip.
Kazakhstan	Kazakhstan called on all the parties involved in the conflict, to renounce the violent problem solving. Foreign Ministry spokesman said "Kazakhstan expresses its deep concern and regret over the recent events in Gaza, resulting in the death and suffering of the civilian population, the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Palestine. Kazakhstan calls for an early settlement of the situation through political means and calls upon the parties to renounce violent solutions." He also said that "achieving the ultimate goals of the peace process is possible only through dialogue and negotiation".
Kenya	Prime Minister Raila Odinga backed the UN Security Council decision demanding an immediate cease-fire in the war in Gaza leading to a full Israeli withdrawal. He said "As I speak, however, the violence in Gaza continues. I therefore call upon the entire international community to use all means at their disposal to persuade both parties to cease fire".
Kuwait	Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Muhammad A-Sabah A-Salim A-Sabah said that "the Kuwaiti government and nation strongly condemn the aggressions and crimes being perpetrated by the Israeli regime against people in Gaza Strip".
Latvia	Foreign Minister Riekstins condemned "any use of military and disproportionate force in the solution of this crisis, both by rocket attacks on Israeli territory from the Gaza strip and by Israeli airstrikes on Gaza."
Lebanon	The Lebanese Government strongly condemned the "completely in the eyes of the world's brutal aggression" by Israel against the Palestinian Gaza Strip. Prime Minister Fouad Siniora said "On behalf of the Government I expresses strong condemnation of the criminal operation, which takes place in the Gaza Strip".
Libya	Libyan leader Muammar al-Gaddafi has accused fellow Arab leaders of adopting a "cowardly" response to Israel’s deadly bombardment of Gaza, and vowed to boycott an Arab summit on the crisis called for later this week. He rhetorically asked Arab leaders "How many times have you held emergency summits? Is this the first time you are proposing an emergency summit? How many summits have you held on the Palestinian issue? What have you achieved?". He called for the Arab peace plan proposed between Arab states and Israel to be revoked. He said that "the Arab initiative is nothing more than an Arab scheme, these massacres (in Gaza) were caused because of it. It has encouraged the enemy to do it. We should be ashamed of such proposals. There are hundreds of people dying in the Gaza Strip as victims of the elections in Israel and in the United States. Our children are being slaughtered for the sake of Israel's election. They talk about peace, which kind of peace is this? The Israelis live in peace and us Arabs remain in the ruins. We do not want peace or negotiations, we do not want talks or peace as long as the enemy is capable of massacring us. We are speaking meaningless words. Peace negotiations were a failed attempt, this is our reality. As long as we are unable to be free and unable to stop the attacks and the massacres, what will you do at this convention? The best answer is to revoke what is called the Arab peace initiative." Gaddafi said about Arab leaders "These characters should be ashamed of themselves. They are trading on the name of the Palestinian cause with their cowardly, weak and defeatist stands. One proposes a (peace) initiative. Another offers empty humanitarian relief. The next one makes speech and the other takes an initiative to call for an emergency Arab summit. You should withdraw your initiative, which you have called an Arab initiative. It is an Arab conspiracy.".
Lithuania	Foreign Minister Vygaudas Ušackas said "Lithuania shares the position of other European Union countries - we express our grave concern over the provocation, violence and victims in the south of Israel and the Gaza Strip and urge the parties of the conflict to immediately cease violence and return to the truce and ensure the provision of urgent humanitarian assistance to victims".
Malaysia	On December 28, Malaysia's Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi called upon the United Nations Security Council to take action following the air strikes by Israel on Gaza and the escalating violence, calling for an immediate halt to violence, so as to avoid a humanitarian disaster in Gaza. On January 8, Badawi called for sanctions to be placed against Israel, denouncing its "excessive deployment of military power" as "absolutely immoral", and saying the international community has a "moral duty" to save the Palestinian people.
Maldives	The government issued a press release expressing its alarm at the escalating violence in the region and the loss of life. The statement called on Israel and Hamas to exercise restraint and put an end to hostilities. It urged both countries to pursue their objectives through dialogue. “Israel must honour its international humanitarian obligations and Hamas must respect Israel’s right to security,” the statement read. Foreign minister, Dr Ahmed Shaheed, said the Maldives would not be taking any direct action against Israel, it would put pressure on the Israeli government to cease its offensive.
Malta	Maltese Foreign Ministry said that Malta fully supports efforts for a permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and for immediate humanitarian aid to the victims. In a statement, the ministry said Malta continued to be deeply concerned at the ongoing fighting in Gaza, in particular the suffering and anguish of the civilian population in the region. "As a matter of utmost urgency, there must be an unconditional halt to rocket attacks by Hamas on Israel and an end to Israeli military action. Violence and military options are not the solution. Malta fully supports international efforts to find an immediate solution to the crisis and the establishment of a permanent ceasefire. In parallel, immediate humanitarian action is required and Israel must grant immediate unhindered and secure passage for the delivery of the humanitarian aid to the inhabitants of the Gaza Strip." the ministry said. It said the solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict must be based on the process set out in Annapolis and in accordance with the terms of reference of the Madrid Conference, in particular land for peace, the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the Quartet's roadmap.
Mauritania	Mauritania, one of only three Arab League countries that enjoys full diplomatic ties with Israel, has withdrawn its ambassador in Israel in protest over the Gaza offensive.
Mauritius	Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, Thursday evening (1st of January) expressed his government's compassion for the Palestinian people "in these days when hundreds of them are losing their lives in Gaza under Israeli bombing. What is happening in Gaza is unacceptable," Ramgoolam said in his New Year day's address broadcast on national television. He said that Mauritius stood by the people of Palestine and supported the international call for an immediate ceasefire in that country.
Mexico	Mexico called on Sunday for an "immediate" halt to Israeli military operations in the Gaza Strip, where massive air raids have killed over 300 people so far. The Mexican government asked for "an immediate halt to military operations" and expressed "grave concern about the bombings conducted on December 27 by the Israeli army and the excessive use of force", the ministry of foreign affairs said in a statement. Mexico "also rejects rockets launched from Gaza on Israeli territory", it added.
Morocco	"The Kingdom of Morocco strongly condemns the massive Israeli military operations which have claimed, this morning, the lives of dozens of Palestinian brothers in Gaza strip, and strongly condemns the disproportionate use of force and the tragic escalation of violence", a communiqué of the Foreign ministry said on Saturday. "The Kingdom of Morocco calls for the immediate halt of the hostilities which, beyond the significant loss of life, exposes the region once again to escalation, violence and divisions", the document added.
Namibia	Minister of Foreign Affairs, Marko Hausiku said "The Government of Namibia condemns the Israeli bombardments and ground assault on the Gaza Strip. This naked aggression and disproportionate use of force by Israel is unfortunate and only leads to further escalation of violence. The Government of Namibia calls on the Government of Israel to withdraw its troops from the Gaza Strip.".
Nepal	The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press release "The Government of Nepal is concerned over the military operation in the Gaza Strip that has caused considerable casualties and material damage with attendant risks of a grave humanitarian catastrophe". The government has also called upon the parties to urgently agree on a cessation of violence, which it said is so crucial to move forward the stalled peace process in the Middle East.
Netherlands	Dutch Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende said that he understands Israel's moves, given the scores of rockets that are being fired from Gaza onto Israeli targets by Hamas. He refused to condemn Israel for its military action and called for international pressure on both sides.
New Zealand	The New Zealand government, which has been reluctant to speak out on the conflict initially, issued a statement on January 7 saying it was "deeply worried by the mounting humanitarian crisis in Gaza as a result of the continuing Israeli ground offensive". Foreign Minister Murray McCully said that attacks on United Nations facilities, including schools, in the Gaza Strip were of grave concern and underlined the need for both sides to agree to an immediate ceasefire. His statement also said "We call for Israel to immediately cease military attacks and for Hamas to immediately cease rocket and mortar attacks. Both sides have obligations to avoid putting civilians in danger. It is imperative both sides focus on the mounting humanitarian situation for the civilian population of Gaza.". He said that the government would not choose sides in the conflict "We've avoided getting into a fairly pointless argument about who and what is a proportionate versus disproportionate response".
Nicaragua	President Daniel Ortega demanded the Israeli government stop its criminal acts in Gaza. "I want... to ask the international community to make all necessary efforts to stop the criminal acts of the Israeli government against the suffering Palestinian people," Ortega said in a statement.
North Korea	A foreign ministry spokesman of the DPRK "resolutely denounces Israel's killing of unarmed civilians as a crime against humanity, a serious provocation against the Palestinians and other Arab people and an open challenge to the Middle East peace process".
Norway	Norway's Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre has said that using warplanes against Gaza is unacceptable, as it is impossible to separate civilians from soldiers in this small area. He also says that Hamas must cease the launching of rockets into Southern Israel. On January 4, Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg criticised the Israeli ground offensive into Gaza, calling it "a dramatic escalation". He also urged the UN Security Council to pass a resolution requesting the immediate halt in the fighting. Foreign Minister Støre also criticised the Israeli ground offensive in Gaza, saying that it "constitutes a dramatic escalation of the conflict. Norway strongly condemns any form of warfare that causes severe civilian suffering, and calls on Israel to withdraw its forces immediately."
Oman	Deputy Prime Minister Sayyid Fahd bin Mahm-oud Al Said said "We condemn the Israeli aggression on the Palestini-an people and the excessive use of force by Israel instead of resolving outstanding issues by adopting amicable methods We also confirm that this unacceptable Israeli attitude will not resolve any problem, but will increase tension and instability in the region. A comprehensive and just peace could only be achieved by reverting to dialogue."
Pakistan	President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani and Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi have condemned the Israeli attacks in Gaza that killed over 200 people on Saturday and have appealed for cessation of hostilities. President Asif Ali Zardari further said Israel’s air raids on Gaza Strip have "violated the Charter of United Nations". He also urged the entire world to take swift action of Israel’s raids on Gaza as it was as open violation of UN Charter. On January 11, the Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN, Zamir Akram, called for an immediate ceasefire and calm. He criticised Israel saying the unrestrained use of force, scale of destruction, killing of innocent civilians, including women and children, the violation of UN safe havens, and the collective punishment of an entire people were blatant breaches of international law. He said that those act, in their totality, constituted war crimes and crimes against humanity. He also called for the end of end of Israel's blockade in Gaza.
Panama	Panamanian government called for an immediate ceasefire and an international conference focused on giving a just and definite solution to this problem. The Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Lewis Navarro, urged the involved partiesd to "immediately initiate an unconditional ceasefire in the Gaza Strip," as well as "facilitate the access of humanitarian aid for all of its inhabitants."
Paraguay	In a communique from the Foreign Ministry, the Paraguayan authorities urged the parties to "immediately cease military action (and) to return to dialogue to find a peaceful solution to their disputes".
Peru	The Government of Peru expresses his deep preoccupation by the situation of violence in Gaza and the south of Israel that has brought consequently the irreparable loss of human lives, and makes a call to the immediate cease of hostilities in this region. The Government of Peru supports recent Official notices of the Secretary General of United Nations and of the Security Council of this international organism with respect to this violent scaling so that, in the brief term, all the involved parts suspend all military activity and the conversations can be reinitiated that allow to lay the way to find solutions to the existing problems in the context of the Israeli relation - Palestine. The Government of Peru makes arrive his more felt condolencias at the families of all the victims and soon formulates votes for a reestablishment of the calm in Gaza and the south of Israel.
Philippines	The Philippines was deeply concerned about the worsening situation in Gaza and southern Israel stating that “The Philippines deplores the continuing violence, rocket attacks and excessive use of force that have already resulted in much damage and suffering and hundreds of casualties, particularly with civilians.”
Poland	Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has released the following statement: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland is deeply concerned about the escalation of violence in Gaza and expresses regret over the growing number of civilian casualties. "We condemn rocket attacks against Israel by Hamas. We also find no justification for the scale of military operation taken in response by the Israeli side. We call for immediate cessation of military actions by both sides, resumption of peace negations with a view to establishing a permanent truce".
Portugal	Portuguese Foreign Ministry called on Israel and the Palestinians to work for a solution to their conflicts and stop fighting in the Gaza Strip.
Qatar	Qatar has condemned the attacks on the Gaza Strip, and has arranged for an extraordinary Arab League summit to be held in Doha on the 2nd of January to discuss a unified Arab stance against the operation. Qatar sent two planes with medicine and food to al-Arish in Egypt for Gaza.
Romania	Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cristian Diaconescu, pointed out Romania’s concern about the current situation and has expressed his belief that the cessation of violence and identification of solutions for the humanitarian issues from the Gaza Strip are absolutely necessary in view of resumption of political dialogue. He said that from Romania’s point of view, the solution to this crisis may be found only by political means and he has emphasised Romania’a availability to undertake, in cooperation with the partners from EU and following bilateral actions, the diligences necessary to support the political-diplomatic regulation of this crisis. Minister Diaconescu has also showed that, understanding the daily difficulties the population from the Gaza Strip is facing for, the Romanian authorities are available also for the identification of certain solutions to grant humanitarian assistance.
Russia	Russia called for a stop of "large-scale acts of force against the Gaza Strip, which has caused considerable victims and suffering amongst the Palestinian population", but also called for Hamas to "stop shelling Israeli territory".. In his talk to Prime Minister Olmert President of Russia Dmitry Medvedev "Voiced serious concern over numerous civilian victims and humanitarian problems stressing the need for the soonest ceasefire in Gaza". Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov added that "the disproportionate use of force by Israel, which causes suffering to the civilian population, can be neither understood nor justified".
San Marino	Antonella Mularoni, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs said "The San Marino Government hopes that a prompt solution will be found to guarantee peaceful coexistence to both Palestinians and Israelis who are entitled to peacefully live in that land. The ongoing crisis in the Gaza Strip is unfortunately the dramatic result of Hamas’ truce violation followed by Israeli retaliation. Therefore, we sincerely hope that no efforts will be spared at national and international level to reduce as much as possible the bloodshed and the number of innocent victims who have the right to durable peace."
Saudi Arabia	Saudi Arabia urged the United States to intervene to end Israeli attacks on Gaza, calling the attacks as "occupation and mistreatment of Palestinians." Saudi police reportedly broke up a pro-Gaza protest on December 29, (though the Interior Ministry denied such an event took place). Awadh Al-Qarni, a Saudi cleric, issued a fatwa permitting the targeting of Israeli interests worldwide in retaliation for the Gaza attack. Saudi Arabia has blamed divisions amongst the Palestinians for the conflict, as well as Hamas for not doing enough to stop Israel or help the people of Gaza.
Senegal	The Senegalese president, Abdoulaye Wade, declared that "Senegal... requires Israel to withdraw immediately and without condition from the Palestinian territory, put an end to this invasion and to stop the air raids."
Serbia	Minister of Foreign Affairs Vuk Jeremić said "We are joining the voice of the whole world, which condemns the violence in Gaza, and we call for the stopping of missile attacks on Israel and Israeli attacks against the Gaza strip".
Slovakia	In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak Republic condemns the escalation of the violence between Israel and Hamas in Gaza Strip after the unilateral dismissal of the truce by the Palestinian extremists and calls both parties for an immediate halt to the violent actions. MFA calls on Israel to avoid any use of disproportionate force and to consider the risk of an expansion of the conflict in the region."
Slovenia	Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a press release saying "The Ministry is closely following the current situation in Gaza and south Israel, and expresses concern regarding the increased violence that has been claiming more and more civilian victims.The Ministry condemns Hamas’s interruption of the cease fire that had been in place and the constant rocket attacks on Israeli territories, while at the same time opposing the disproportionate use of force on the part of the Israeli army and clear violations of international humanitarian law. The Ministry condemns in particular the Israeli army attacks on schools, health centres and UNRWA buildings. There is no excuse for today’s attack on a UNRWA building that killed 40 people, which represents an egregious violation of international humanitarian law. The Ministry therefore calls on Hamas to cease all rocket attacks on Israel immediately and on Israel to stop its military action. The Ministry also advocates the unhindered opening of all border crossings with Gaza in order to ensure the supply of humanitarian aid and fuel, and the presence of medical staff. Moreover, conditions must be created for the safe distribution of aid to the civilian population. The Ministry is already examining possibilities of immediate help to alleviate the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. Greater engagement of the EU and its international partners is of crucial importance in achieving sustainable peace. To this end, an EU delegation is paying an important visit to the region, and Egypt, the Arab League and Turkey continue to strive for termination of the violence and resumption of negotiations."
Singapore	Singapore called on all parties in Gaza to exercise maximum restraint and work towards an early re-establishment of the cease-fire, the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Monday night. "We are deeply concerned about the situation in Gaza with mounting civilian casualties and the possibility of a humanitarian catastrophe", a spokesman of the ministry said in the statement.
South Africa	South Africa's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Fatima Hajaig has called on Israel to stop military attacks in Gaza and withdraw its forces from the border immediately. "The South African government finds the continued siege on Gaza unacceptable as it does not allow humanitarian relief supply such as medicine, food and water to reach the desperate people of Gaza". She summoned Israel's ambassador to a meeting to express the South African government's "grave concern" at the Israeli army's "brutal assault" on Palestinians in Gaza. "The South African government unequivocally and in the strongest possible terms condemns the escalation of violence on the part of Israel brought about by the launching Saturday night of a ground invasion into Gaza," read a statement issued by the foreign affairs department after the begin of israels ground offensive.
South Korea	The Government of the Republic of Korea is deeply concerned about the deteriorating situation in and around the Gaza Strip following Hamas's recent attack and Israel's subsequent air-strikes and regrets the large casualties that have resulted from the collisions.
Spain	The Spanish government Sunday condemned Israel for its airstrikes on the Gaza Strip and called on Israel to end the act of violence. The condemnation and call were made by Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Ángel Moratinos in a statement. Spain offered the International Committee of the Red Cross two trucks of humanitarian aid to be sent to Gaza.
Sri Lanka	In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka, the government "calls upon all parties concerned to end the violence, to ensure a climate conducive for the re-commencement of negotiations to find a lasting solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Sri Lanka has been a consistent advocate for the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people to establish an independent Palestinian State within secure borders to co-exist in peace with its neighbours. Sri Lanka calls upon the parties concerned to exercise utmost restraint and work towards immediate de-escalation of violence in the Gaza Strip.
Sudan	The Sudanese government strongly condemned Israeli air raids and called on the UN Security Council and the world society to shoulder their responsibility and exert pressures on Israel to stop the aggressions and lift its blockade against the Palestinian people. The ruling National Congress Party issued a statement, denouncing that the Israeli aggressions using the American weapons has demonstrated the savagery and barbarianism of the military mechanism of Israel. Protesters in Sudan condemned Arab leaders and demanded that they "show Gaza support". Thousands of Sudanese marched towards the Egyptian embassy in Khartoum calling for an opening of Rafah crossing.
Sweden	Foreign Minister Carl Bildt condemned Israel and said that "The Israeli ground offensive is "basically an admission that (Tel Aviv's) air attacks over the past week have failed to achieve what they had hoped for," Bildt said in a statement late Saturday.. Instead of seeking a possible political solution after this failure they have now chosen to dramatically escalate the conflict with a ground offensive. It is obvious that this will make it harder to find a solution to this serious conflict." He also said that he hopes both sides will stop the bombings. He also stated that the current isolation of Gaza should end, calling it "counterproductive" for the Israeli side. Bildt says that Hamas should have agreed to a continued cease-fire agreement. Faced by the sensitive question if Israel had breached international law in the current campaign Carl Bildt anwsered "... A massive breach of international law, massive breaches of human rights, a massive humanitarian crisis".
Switzerland	On December 27, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs released a statement of its "concern over the most recent escalation of violence in the Gaza strip" and called "for an immediate end to the acts of violence which are intensifying the suffering of the civil population". On January 4, a new statement deplores the escalation of violence in Gaza. It has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and has requested a durable reopening of crossings into Gaza. The FDFA also protests the denial by Israeli authorities of access to Gaza by an emergency medical team of the International Committee of the Red Cross. It condemned the rocket attacks from Gaza that have taken place since the end of the truce as an "untenable burden" to Israel's civilian population. Though its right to self defence was acknowledged, the reaction of the armed forces of Israel was condemned as "disproportional". The FDFA considered recent events to be "serious violations of humanitarian law, which prohibits in particular acts of violence against civilian populations" and called upon all conflicting parties to respect their obligation to respect the Geneva Convention, especially as to refrain from acts of violence against civilian populations.
Syria	Syria condemned the acts, calling them a "heinous crime and convicted terrorist act". In al-Yarmouk camp, outside Damascus, dozens of Palestinian protesters vowed to continue fighting Israel. A Syrian official said his government was canceling Turkish-brokered Middle East peace talks because of Damascus' anger about the Gaza offensive.
Tajikistan	Statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan expresses concern over crisis in the Gaza Strip. The worsening of the armed clashes in the Gaza Strip, resulted in hundreds of thousands of dead and wounded civilians, including women and children. As a result of collisions Gaza, that is under blockade, could face a humanitarian catastrophe. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan stresses that the problem of the Gaza Strip, the Arab-Israeli conflict and the whole Middle East crisis can not have a military solution. Accordingly, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan calls upon all warring parties to immediately announce the unconditional cease-fire and resume the negotiating process. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan, reaffirming its support for the mediation efforts of countries and organisations aimed at a peaceful solution to the problem of Gaza, expresses confidence that the will of the international community will be able to exclude non-peaceful ways of resolving differences and conflicts."
Tanzania	Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete said in the statement: "Tanzania believes that there is no military solution to Palestine-Israel conflict and that such actions (ongoing fighting) serve only to increase tension in the region." The Tanzanian president added that the killings were horrifying and that only those two sides (Palestine and Israel) have the key to halting the hostilities. President Kikwete told Palestinian Ambassador to Tanzania, Nasri Khalid Abu Jaish, that it was crucial that the Hamas should stop its rocket attacks against Israel. The president told Israeli Ambassador to Tanzania, Jacob Kdeidar, that the Israeli fury has gone too far and its military actions has provoked vile international reactions in that its actions were causing unjustifiable deaths among the civilians.
Thailand	Thailand called on Monday for Hamas to stop its rocket attacks and for Israel to cease its retaliatory air strikes. "The Royal Thai Government is gravely concerned with the escalating situation of violence in the Gaza Strip causing loss of civilians' lives and damages to public infrastructures", said a statement by the Foreign Ministry.
Tunisia	The Ministry of Foreign Affairs released the following statement: "Tunisia expresses its deep concern following the Israeli air raids in the Gaza strip which have caused scores of victims among the brotherly Palestinian people. Tunisia condemns this dangerous escalation and reaffirms its call to the international community, and notably the influential powers, for an urgent and energetic intervention, to stop the Israeli aggression, offer the necessary protection to the Palestinian people and put an end to its suffering. Tunisia also stresses that these acts, are likely to increase the tension, aggravate the situation and endanger all the efforts exerted to establish peace, security and stability in the region".
Turkey	Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said that "Israel’s bombardment of Gaza shows disrespect to the Turkish Republic. We were planning to schedule peace talks between Syria and Israel. Whatever the reason is, killing innocent civilians will damage peace in the world". President of Turkish Republic Abdullah Gül called attacks "irresponsibility" and declared that the Turkish Republic is watching events closely. The Minister of International Affairs Ali Babacan asked the United Nations Security Council to take action immediately. The president of the CHP main opposition party Deniz Baykal said: "the attacks are taking place just before the presidential inauguration in the USA. The timing of these attacks demands attention". Thousands of people marched at Istiklal and İstanbul Beyazıt Avenues in Istanbul, İzmir Basmane Avenue in Izmir, in front of Antalya Murattpaşa Mosque in Antalya, Erzincan Cumhuriyet Avenue in Erzincan, and hundreds of people gathered in front of the Israeli Embassy in Ankara. The Turkish Red Crescent has sent fifteen trucks filled with humanitarian aid.
Ukraine	Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement saying "While condemning the firing of rockets into Israeli territory from the Gaza Strip, we express doubts about the proportionality of Israel's use of military force. We urge the parties to the conflict to adhere to the principles of international humanitarian law in parts of the inadmissibility of collective punishment and destruction of civilian populations".
United Kingdom	The United Kingdom's government called for "maximum restraint to avoid further civilian casualties" and for an "immediate halt to violence" and on the other side for "militants in the Gaza Strip to immediately cease all rocket attacks on Israel". Up to 1,500 protesters gathered outside the Israeli embassy in London shouting: "Five, six, seven, eight — Israel is a terror state". Some of the protesters attempted to break into the embassy before being pushed back by riot police. The British Foreign Secretary David Miliband also warned that Israel's attack might encourage further extremism.
United States	President George W. Bush initially focused blame for the conflict on Hamas, while reasserting the United States' support of Israel's right to protect itself. The president also expressed concern for the people of Gaza and pledged millions of dollars of aid to the U.N. to help. The United States support of Israel was tempered by President Bush's calls for Israel to consider humanitarian issues and, "to avoid civilian casualties as it targets Hamas in Gaza". The United States supports a cease-fire, but blocked a United Nations Security Council Resolution calling for one, stating that it will only support a plan that will end the rocket attacks into Israel, open the border crossings into Gaza, and deal with the network of smuggling tunnels leading into Gaza. The Department of State declared that, "...any agreement needs to be durable, sustainable, and not limited by time." and has been working both inside and outside of the United Nations to achieve this goal. On 10 January, the United States House of Representatives voted 390 to 5 with 22 abstaining in favor of a resolution "recognizing Israel's right to defend itself against attacks from Gaza".
United Arab Emirates	In a statement issued by the Foreign Ministry, the UAE voiced its support for holding an emergency Arab League meeting, WAM reported. In a phone conversation, President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan discussed with Shaikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, the situation in Gaza in view of the Israeli attacks. The UAE also condemned the Israeli government and called for an immediate ceasefire. The Emirate of Dubai also condemned the attacks and cancelled all New Years celebrations in a supposed stand of solidarity with the people of Gaza.
Uruguay	With the aim of "achieving a cease of fire in the Gaza Strip that puts an end to the loss of human lifes in the region", the Uruguayan government hopes that both parties pledge to the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1860 and wishes that they "cease their military actions and, with the international community's suppport, start taking steps towards the goal of resuming in brief the peace process"
Uzbekistan	Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement saying that "Uzbekistan calls on the conflicting parties in Gaza to cease hostilities and resolve their differences through negotiation".
Venezuela	President Hugo Chavez expressed his solidarity with the Palestinian peoples and proposes "a massive campaign to condemn the violent actions [by Israel] where they try to annihilate the life expectancy of a whole race". On January 5, Chavez called the violence "state terrorism", saying of the attacks "the Holocaust, that is what is happening right now in Gaza". Chavez accused Israel of "flagrant violations of International Law" and stated that the Israeli and American presidents be tried at the International Criminal Court. Venezuela expelled Israel's ambassador to Venezuela and part of the embassy personnel, and Hugo Chavez called for Ehud Olmert to be tried for war crimes.
Vietnam	A spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: "We condemn all actions of military attack causing great losses in humans and property for civilians, particularly at the Gaza Strip. Vietnam calls upon all the parties to refrain themselves, stop violence and resume the ceasefire agreement soon".
Yemen	Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh condemned the Israeli raids as a “barbaric aggression”.

Other sovereign entities

Entity

Notes

Holy See

At the end of his December 28 Angelus Address, Pope Benedict XVI launched an urgent appeal for peace in the Holy Land. A spokesman commented, "Hamas is a prisoner to a logic of hate, Israel to a logic of faith in force as the best response to hate. One must continue to search for a different way out, even if that may seem impossible". On the 8th of January, 2009, the Pope's justice minister, Cardinal Renato Martino, sharply criticised Israel's actions and likened the Gaza Strip to a "big concentration camp".

Others

Entity	Reactions
File:Flag of Hezbollah.svg Hezbollah	Hassan Nasrallah has warned that there was a possibility of renewing another conflict. He stated that he was ready for another confrontation with Israel and had previously put all his fighters in the Israeli-Lebanese border on high alert.

Humanitarian aid

Map of countries giving emergency aid to Gaza in 2009.

Donor	Donation worth (USD)	Notes and other assistance
European Union	4,200,000	Emergency humanitarian aid.
Algeria		Government announced that Algeria will send medical aid. A team of doctors and surgeons would accompany the aid package, which includes medical supplies.
Argentina		Foreign Minister Jorge Taiana designated the White Helmets Commission to coordinate with the Ministries of Health and Social Action, sending humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip which consists of food aid, medicines, tents and water treatment tablets.
Australia	3,500,000	Acting Prime Minister Julia Gillard said that "as part of its commitment to help support people caught up in the conflict, the Australian government will make an immediate commitment of AU$5 million in additional assistance to the people of the Gaza Strip and stands ready to consider further assistance in the future".
Bahrain	1,000,000	A $1 million (BD378,000) aid consignment left Bahrain on board two planes. The initiative was supervised by the Royal Charity Organisation.
Brazil		The Brazilian government sent 14 tons of medicines and food.
Canada	3,380,000	Canada will give 4 million Canadian dollars to the United Nations and Red Cross to be used for humanitarian assistance in the Palestinian Territories. Foreign Affairs Minister Lawrence Cannon said that $3 million will be given to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and the remaining $1 million will go to the Red Cross.
China	1,000,000	Emergency humanitarian aid for the Palestinian National Authority to buy urgently needed material.
Denmark	3,650,000	The Development Ministry has contributed 20 million kroner to victims of the crisis.
Egypt		The Egyptian Ministry of Health sent 30 buses to North Sinai to help transport injured Palestinians. Egypt has ordered dozens of ambulances to the Rafah crossing to help evacuate wounded Gazans for treatment in Egypt.
Estonia	100,000	Aid to be delivered via the United Nations.
Finland	675,000	Finland's support was conveyed to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) through the Finnish Red Cross.
France	4,000,000	France decided emergency aid of three million euros "in response to the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where the Israeli army is conducting a major operation against the Islamic movement Hamas". One million is intended for the UN office for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), one million for the World Food Program (WFP) and one million for non-governmental organisations (NGOs), said spokesman for the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Eric Chevallier.
Germany	15,300,000	Aid for humanitarian efforts in Gaza.
Greece		Two Greek C-130 military airplanes took off on Thursday with a cargo of 280 tons of humanitarian aid. It is one of the largest Greek despatches of blood and blood by-products ever organised, as well as IV drips, antibiotics and other medicinal supplies. Foreign ministry secretary general Theodoros Skylakakis said that aid is one of the first missions that will arrive in Gaza.
India	1,000,000	Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs Vishnu Prakash today said, "In response to the ‘Flash Appeal’ made by the United Nations Refugee Welfare Agency (UNRWA), the Indian Government has decided to extend an assistance of US$1 million for use by the agency to provide shelters, cash assistance, essential household items, etc., to affected families in Gaza.".
Indonesia	1,000,000	In addition to the aid, the government has pledged two tones of medical supplies. Islamic organisations in Indonesia have dispatched humanitarian aid to Gaza, worth US$ 200,000.
Iran	2,500,000	The government has dispatched planeload of aid, including medicine to Gaza and several ships which also where carrying aid to the Gaza Strip. They have also requested Egypt to open up its boarders so that they (Iran) could send more aid, including oil and basic human needs such as clothes and other mechanical needs.
Ireland	680,000	€500,000 in humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Italy	470,000	Foreign Minister Franco Frattini announced €350 000 of aid.
Japan	10,000,000	Pledged in humanitarian aid.
Jordan		Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation dispatched the 15-truck convoy loaded with three kidney dialysis units and a ventilator, while two vehicles carried bread and a third was loaded with bottled drinking water.
Kuwait		Two military planes with humanitarian aid. First plane carried 10 tons of relief aid with food and medical supplies onboard. Second plane will be dispatched with two ambulances and food and medical supplies onboard. Aid came upon instructions of Emir Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
Lebanon	1,000,000	Pledged aid.
Libya		Has sent a plane carrying aid to al-Arish for Gaza.
Luxembourg	685,000	This emergency program aims to provide basic food rations, provide temporary shelter to 5,000 people displaced by the conflict, provide financial support to Palestinian families affected to help cover the medical care required, provide 500,000 liters of fuel to municipalities and other agencies providing public services to the population in the Gaza Strip.
Malaysia	1,000,000	To be donated via Mercy Malaysia.
Morocco		Two planes were sent with 63 tonnes comprised 15 tonnes of medicine, 20 tonnes of flour, eight tonnes of sugar, eight tonnes of cooking oil, six tonnes of milk, 4.5 tonnes of cheese and 1.5 tonnes of tea. Three thousands blankets for Gaza have also been carried on the air lift. Morocco said it was ready to care for 200 injured Palestinians.
Netherlands	4,000,000	Development Cooperation Minister Bert Koenders has pledged three million euros in aid for the Gaza StriP. Two million euros will go to UNRWA, the United Nations relief agency for Palestinians. The remaining one million euros will be given to the Red Crescent.
New Zealand		The Foreign Affairs Ministry, noted that New Zealand makes an annual contribution to the United Nations Emergency Relief Fund, which it considers to be adequate and that for now there will be no additional aid to the Middle East.
Norway	4,320,000	As one of the first Western states to recognise the Hamas-led government in 2007, Norway has given the donation in "immediate aid" to Gaza.
Oman		The supplies provided include medications, power generators, and medical equipments.
Poland	350,000	Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in response to the appeal issued by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), sent EUR 250,000 immediately to help those who have been most harmed in the Palestinian Authority.
Qatar	1,140,000	NGO Reach Out To Asia (Rota) pledged $1m in humanitarian aid to Palestinians living in the Gaza Strip. Qatar Charity, a non-governmental organisation has delivered medical supplies worth $140,000 to the Palestinian Ministry of Health Hospitals.
Russia		60 tons of tents, medicines and food. President Dmitry Medvedev ordered for additional help to be sent.
Saudi Arabia	12,000,000+	Saudi Arabia launched "the Custodian of The Two Holy Mosques Campaign to Provide Humanitarian Relief to the Palestinian People in Gaza." This effort is a nationwide endeavor which is coordinated by a number of entities, including representative of the provincial governments.
South Korea	300,000	Humanitarian aid.
Spain		Spain has offered the International Committee of the Red Cross two trucks of humanitarian aid to be sent to Gaza.
Sweden	2,200,000	Given to a UN-administered fund for Gaza in two payments. The Swedish International Development Agency said the funds were being used for hospitals, medicines and food.
Switzerland	2,700,000	Switzerland has provided humanitarian aid to the civilian population of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank incl. East Jerusalem totalling CHF 12 million in 2008. On 9.1.2009 it was decided to give an extra 3 million.
Thailand	28,000	Thailand will provide an immediate financial contribution of 28,000 U.S. dollars to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to address the emergency needs of the people affected by the conflict in Gaza.
Turkey		11000 boxes of food and 100 Trucks of medicine,food and humanitarian aid supplied, 5 ambulances donated.
United Arab Emirates	5,500,000	United Arab Emirates donated to Red Cross/Red Crescent and medicine.
United Kingdom	10,000,000	The donation is to be made in the form of food, fuel and medicine supplies to Gaza.
United States		President George W. Bush said "We care about the people of Gaza, and, therefore, have provided millions of dollars of fresh aid to the United Nations to help".
Venezuela		Venezuelan sent an airplane with the first 80 tons of medicine, foods and water, accompanied by the task force Simon Bolivar and 30 Venezuelan doctors.
Yemen		Yemen has prepared 42 tons of aid for the people of Gaza. Yemen has also declared its readiness to receive 500 injured Palestinians from the Gaza Strip and treat them in Yemeni hospitals.

• Note, no entry in the "Donation worth (USD)" column indicates the amount is presently unknown.

Civilian demonstrations and protests

Pro-Israel demonstration in Tel Aviv.

A rally against Israeli operations held in Melbourne, Australia.

Many demonstrations against the strikes occurred in cities around the world, and in Israel protests both for and against the strikes were held.

In Egypt, the protests caused the government to reopen the Rafah border crossing to allow the delivery of food and medicine to the Gaza Strip.

The largest protest, of up to a million people, was held in Damascus on January 7.

On December the 10th, a new wave of protests were held in Europe. In London, 50,000 people marched to the Israeli embassy - the largest ever pro-Palestinian demonstration in the UK. In Paris 30,000 people marched with banners reading 'We are all children of Gaza'. Further protests were held across Europe.

The Israeli peace movement Gush Shalom condemned the war;they marched in Tel-Aviv in a massive demonstration.

Demonstrations condemning the Israeli offensive

Protests were held in the following cities:

Note: The table can be sorted alphabetically or chronologically using the "><" icon.

Location	Country	Size	Notes
Aarhus	Denmark	400
Abu Dhabi	UAE	Hundreds	Part of nation-wide demonstrations organised by the Ministry of Interior on January 9 and attended by locals and expatriates.
Albuquerque	United States
Aleppo	Syria	500
Alexandria.	Egypt	250,000	Egyptian police on Thursday arrested 64 members of the opposition party Akhwan-ul-Muslimeen for organising protests against the siege of the Gaza Strip.
Algiers	Algeria	100
Amman	Jordan	30,000	1,500 protesters gathered in front of the Israeli embassy and police fired tear gas at several protesters hurling rocks; 30,000 at a stadium.
Amsterdam	Netherlands	1,500
Anchorage	United States
Ankara	Turkey	5,000
Ann Arbor	United States
Arish	Egypt	3,000
Atlanta	United States
Athens	Greece	5,000	Riot police fired tear gas to stop protesters from hurling rocks at the Israeli Embassy.
Auckland	New Zealand	1,000
Baghdad	Iraq	1,000
Baltimore	United States
Bamako	Mali		Several hundred marched in opposition to the attack on Gaza, ending with a prayer, on January 2.
Bangor	United Kingdom	100
Barcelona	Spain	50,000
Baton Rouge	United States	300
Beirut	Lebanon	2,250	January 4: 250 at US embassy, "thousands" outside UN building.
Belfast	United Kingdom	2,000	Speech by Nobel Prize laureate Mairead Corrigan Maguire, Lord Mayor of Belfast, heads of the four main churches in Ireland (cross-border) and trade union presidents, including NIPSA heads. The protest was boycotted by unionist political parties, most notably the DUP who claimed those attending the protest were anti-Israeli and pro-Hamas.
Bellingham	United States
Berlin	Germany	7,000
Bern	Switzerland	800
Bern	Switzerland	7000
Bogotá	Colombia	200	On 31 December 2008, a protest was held in front of the Israeli embassy. On 2 January 2009, a march from Plaza de Bolívar to the Israeli embassy took place. Another demonstration is scheduled for 6 January
Bordeaux	France	300
Boston	United States	1,000
Bradford	United Kingdom
Brasília	Brazil	100	After marching from Cathedral of Brasília to the Israeli embassy, 100 protestors burned a Israeli Flag, and delivered a Manifesto to the embassy.
Brisbane	Australia	2,000
Bristol	United Kingdom
Brussels	Belgium	1000	1000 protestors according to the police, 3000 according to the organisers.
Budapest	Hungary	1000
Buenos Aires	Argentina	5,000
Buffalo	United States
Caernarfon	United Kingdom
Cairo 03, Jan	Egypt	220,000	about 220,000 people gathered in several places in Cairo near the Al Fatah Mosque, Lawyers Union, Doctors Union, Cairo University, Tahrir Square, Azhar Mosque and other places in Cairo to protest the ongoing Israeli attacks in Gaza and to get the Egyptian government to open the border between Gaza and Egypt it is considered one of the Biggest Protests in Cairo, the Government banned Major Protests in Cairo for Gaza.
Cairo 03, Jan	Egypt	400	about 400 people gathered near the Al Fatah Mosque in Cairo to protest the ongoing Israeli attacks in Gaza and to get the Egyptian government to open the border between Gaza and Egypt.
Cape Town	South Africa	3,000	The protest was organised by the Workers International Vanguard League (WIVL) who released a statement saying the march was "to protest the genocide in Gaza as well as the complicity of the SA government in allowing weapons and spare parts to be shipped to Israel and the United States". Leaders of the protest handed a memorandum to Deputy Foreign Minister Sue van der Merwe outside Parliament's main gate which among other things calls on government to expel Israel's ambassador to South Africa, and for the imposition of sanctions against that country.
Caracas 02,Jan	Venezuela	5,000
Charikar	Afghanistan
Chicago	United States	4,050
Cincinnati	United States
Cleveland	United States
Cluj-Napoca	Romania	200
Colorado Springs	United States
Columbia	United States
Concord	United States
Copenhagen	Denmark	2000
Cork	Ireland
Dallas	United States	900
Damanhur	Egypt	40,000	Egyptian police on Thursday arrested 64 members of the opposition party Akhwan-ul-Muslimeen for organising protests against the siege of the Gaza Strip.
Damascus	Syria	1,000,000	A number of demonstrations took place in Damascus, but the largest was on January 8. Independent sources gave an estimate of "hundreds of thousands", while Syrian media placed the number at "roughly one million". The rally was sponsored by the government to protest Israel's military offensive against the Gaza Strip.
Dar es Salaam	Tanzania	10,000
Dearborn	United States	3,000
Denver	United States
Denizli	Turkey
Dhaka	Bangladesh
Diyarbakir	Turkey	50,000	The demonstrators chanted slogans against Israel both in Turkish and Kurdish.
Doha	Qatar	15,000
Dubai	UAE		Part of nation-wide demonstrations organised by the Ministry of Interior on January 9 and attended by locals and expatriates. In Dubai, people were invited to take part in the marches via email and sms messages, as well as by postings made on popular community websites like facebook.
Dublin	Ireland	1,000	Israeli flag burned outside Leinster House, one man attempted to set himself on fire.
Duisberg	Germany	10,000	Demonstrators marchking in soldiarity with the victims in the Gaza Strip, called for an immediate end to the violence and a lifting of the blockade of Gaza.
Duesseldorf	Germany	4,000
Dushanbe	Tajikistan	2,000	Not given permission to hold public protests, 2,000 Tajiks held a "meeting" to condemn Israeli actions.
Edinburgh	United Kingdom
Eugene, Oregon	United States
Exeter	United Kingdom
Flint	United States
Florianópolis	Brazil
Fort Lauderdale	United States	100<
Frankfurt	Germany	5,000
Galway	Ireland	250
Geneva	Switzerland	1000
Glasgow	United Kingdom
Granada	Spain	200
Guayaquil	Ecuador
Hebron	West Bank
Haifa	Israel	100	Students protested at Haifa University.
Hartford	United States	150
Honolulu	United States
Houston	United States	500
Hyderabad	India	250	Attempts to burn Olmert in effigy were prevented
Karbala	Iraq	200	Around 200 people attended the protests at the majority Shiite Shrine City of Karbala.
Hull	United Kingdom
Islamabad-Rawalpindi	Pakistan
Ismaïlia	Egypt		Egyptian police on Thursday arrested 64 members of the opposition party Akhwan-ul-Muslimeen for organising protests against the siege of the Gaza Strip.
Istanbul	Turkey	700,000	Around 200,000 people attended the protests at the sprawling Caglayan square in central Istanbul, waving the Turkish and Palestinian flag, the protesters chanted "Damn Israel" as they burnt Israeli flags.
Jakarta	Indonesia	10,000 20,000 (10-01-09)
Jalalabad	Afghanistan
Jerusalem	Israel	200	Arab Israeli and Jewish students protested at the Hebrew University.
Johannesburg	South Africa
Kabul	Afghanistan
Kailua	United States
Kalamazoo	United States
Kayseri	Turkey
Khartoum	Sudan
Kolkata	India
Knoxville	United States
Kota Bharu	Malaysia	1,000
Kuwait City	Kuwait	2,000
Lahore	Pakistan
Leeds	United Kingdom
Lima	Peru
Limerick	Ireland
Liverpool	United Kingdom
London	Canada	300
London	United Kingdom	100,000	3 January: First major protest organised by the Stop the War Coalition. Armed police had to protect the Israeli embassy from a crowd of over 5000 people. Protesters threw shoes at government buildings. Among the protesters were politicians Clare Short, Tony Benn and George Galloway, comedian Alexei Sayle and musician Annie Lennox.
London	United Kingdom	250,000	10 January: Second major protest organised by the Stop the War Coalition. Further clashes outside the Israeli and Egyptian embassies.
Los Angeles	United States	350	Protestors demonstrated peacefully near the Israeli Consulate. A separate demonstration in Westwood was attended by around 100.
Louisville	United States
Lyon	France	300
Madrid	Spain	250,000
Malmo	Sweden
Manama	Bahrain	2,500
Manchester	United Kingdom
Managua	Nicaragua
Manaus	Brazil
Manila	Philippines
Melbourne	Australia	6,000
Milan	Italy	1,000
Minneapolis	United States	40
Modesto	United States
Mombasa	Kenya
Montpellier	France	300
Montreal	Canada	5,000	About 5,000 people, according to media estimates, braved the cold on Jan 4th to "demand a halt to Israel's offensive on the Gaza Strip".
Moscow	Russia	37	The protest by 37 Palestinians, Azeris and Russian Muslims was not sanctioned, and they were subsequently detained.
Mosul	Iraq		The protest was targeted by a suicide bomber, killing 1 and wounding 16.
Munich	Germany	2,000
Nairobi	Kenya
Nancy	France	300
Nantes	France	700
Nardaran	Azerbaijan		Several hundred gathered at this village near Baku.
New Brunswick	United States
Newcastle	United Kingdom
New Delhi	India	50	On January 5, 50 students from Delhi University and JNU demonstrated in front of the Israeli Embassy.
New Haven	United States
New Orleans	United States	1300
New York City	United States	22,000
Nice	France	200
Nicosia	Cyprus	2,000	Demonstrators pelted riot police with rocks, sticks, shoes and oranges near the Israeli Embassy.
Norfolk	United States
Norwich	United Kingdom
Nouakchott	Mauritania
Novi Pazar	Serbia		A few thousand protesters in the predominantly Muslim south protested against Israeli operation. Humanitarian aid was also collected.
Ocala	United States
Odense>	Denmark	500
Oslo	Norway	40,000	1000 protested on December 29 outside Israeli embassy. Protest turned violent when 100 began throwing Molotov cocktails, stones and fired fireworks, 4 were arrested. Several thousand peacefully protested outside Israeli embassy on January 3. The Blitz movement and Palestine Comittee protested on January 4 outside the Israeli embassy. Protest turned violent, and police dispersed the protest using tear gas, after deeming it illegal. On January 8, a counterprotest was held by Palestine sympathisers in response to the pro-Israeli demonstration outside the Storting. Protest turned violent when they burned Israeli flags and fired rockets, threw eggs, and a Molotov cocktail. Police dispersed the protest using tear gas. On January 8, 40000 gathered to protest against the use of force in the conflict. Similar demonstrations were held all around the country. On January 10, a group of Palestinian protesters demonstrated outside the Israeli embassy. Among the protesters were several children age 11 and 12, walking in front of the rally. The protest turned violent when they began throwing rocks, Molotov cocktails and fired rockets at the police. Police dispersed the protest using tear gas. After 130 had been detained and 5 arrested, protesters vandalized several McDonald's restaurants after due to rumours spread by text messages said that the fast food chain were planning to donate their earnings on Saturday to Israel. The rumours, however, were false.
Ottawa	Canada	300	Estimate of 500 protesters was also given. Organised by Palestinian and Jewish Canadians.
Panama City	Panama	200	Protesters gathered outside Israeli embassy.
Paris	France	21,000 Tens of thousands (10-01-09)	After the main demonstration of 21,000, a group of 500 protesters burned Israeli flags, set fire to at least 3 cars and smashed shop and cafe windows.
Philadelphia	United States
Phoenix	United States
Portland	United States
Portsmouth	United Kingdom	500
Portsmouth	United States
Prague	Czech Republic
Qalqilya	West Bank		A Palestinian man was shot dead by Israeli troops who confronted youths protesting against the Israeli operation.
Quito	Ecuador
Rabat	Morocco	50,000	January 4: 50,000
Ramallah	West Bank	2,000	"Thousands" demonstrated on December 27.
Rochester	United States
Rio de Janeiro	Brazil	300
Tanta	Egypt	100,000
Thessaloniki	Greece	700
Sacramento	United States
Sarajevo	Bosnia	2500
Sakhnin	Israel	150,000	Estimates: 10,000, greater than 10,000, and 150,000.
Salvador	Brazil
Salzburg	Austria	2,500
San Diego	United States	500
San Francisco	United States	10,000
San Jose	United States
Sana'a	Yemen	10,000	Tens of thousands of people marched, many carrying banners condemning Israel and what they called "Arab silence" over the "extermination of the Palestinian people by the Zionist enemy".
Santa Rosa	United States
Santiago	Chile	500
São Paulo	Brazil	7,000	On January 11, 7,000 protestors gathered outside the São Paulo Museum of Art for a march. On January 2, 200 protestors gathered outside the same space. On January 7, a protest gathered 1,500 people in Brás, a neighbourhood famed for its large Arab Brazilian population.
Sde Dov	Israel	21
Seattle	United States
Seoul	South Korea	300
Seville	Spain	3,000
Sharjah	UAE	3,000+	Part of nation-wide demonstrations organised by the Ministry of Interior on January 9 and attended by locals and expatriates.
Sheffield	United Kingdom
Sidon	Lebanon	3,000
Sioux Falls	United States
Sligo	Ireland
Sofia	Bulgaria	500	While carrying pro-Palestinian banners, protests called for peace.
Srinagar	India
Stockholm	Sweden
Surabaya	Indonesia
Swansea	United Kingdom	200
Sydney	Australia	4,000
Syracuse	United States
Tacoma	United States
Tampa	United States
Tehran	Iran	6,000
Thessaloniki	Greece	1,000
Tel Aviv	Israel	10,000	About 200 students protested at Tel Aviv University in one protest, 10,000 people protested there in another.
Tokyo	Japan	200	Protesting Israeli attacks, and chanting "end the massacre in Gaza", protesters carried flowers and candles to the Israeli embassy, offered prayers and a Buddhist monk rang a bell for the victims.
Toronto	Canada	2,000	The first protest, held on December 28, attracted 800 people, while a 3rd January protest counted 2,000 demonstrators. A January 7 sit-in protest by 8 Jewish women inside the Israeli consulate, who did "not want this massacre to take place in our name," resulted in their arrest and subsequent release without charge.
Toulouse	France	300
Tucumán	Argentina	100
Tunbridge Wells	United Kingdom
Turin	Italy	1,000
Umm al-Fahm	Israel		During the demonstration one of the protesters fired random gunshots and hit two children lightly injuring them.
Uppsala	Sweden
Vienna	Austria	5,000	Demonstration against Israel largely peaceful.
Washington, DC	United States	5,000 10,000
Wellington	New Zealand	1,000	Demonstration on January 6 of est1000 people. Catholic priest defaces memorial to Yitzhak Rabin with red ink and blood.
York	United Kingdom
Youngstown	United States
Zagreb	Croatia	300
Zürich	Switzerland	600	The president of the Swiss foreign policy commission also participated as a private citizen.

Demonstrations supporting the Israeli offensive

Note: The table can be sorted alphabetically or chronologically using the "><" icon.

File:Tel-Aviv University students protest unlawful holding of Gilad Shalit by hamas.jpg

Tel-Aviv University students protest the holding of Gilad Shalit by Hamas as a hostage to their demands.

"Peace for the people of Israel and Gaza", London rally, January 11, 2009

London rally

Location	Country	Size	Notes
Albuquerque	United States	200
Berlin	Germany
Boston	United States
Brussels	Belgium	450	450 protestors according to the police, almost 1000 according to the organisers.
Buenos Aires	Argentina	1,500	Organised by the local Jewish community and several NGOs "in support of Israel but regretting innocent deaths".
Fort Lauderdale	United States	250	Counterprotest
Frankfurt	Germany	500
Haifa	Israel	2,000	Students counterprotested at Haifa University, supporting the operation.
Harlem	United States	1,000	1,000 Christian worshipers led by Bishop Carlton Brown pray for Israel. Israel's consul-general in New York reads out Gilad Shalit's childrens story.
Helsinki	Finland	600	A pro-war demonstration organised by the Pentecostal Christian organisation The Friends of Israel.
Houston	United States	1,000	Counterprotest
Jerusalem	Israel	5,000	100 students counterprotested at the Hebrew University, supporting the operation. Several hundred people prayed for the wellbeing of IDF soldiers and the residents of Israel's southern communities at the Western Wall.
Los Angeles	United States	2,500
London 07/Jan/09	United Kingdom	1,000	1,000 people gathered at the Israeli embassy
London 11/Jan/09	United Kingdom	4,000	Under the banner 'Peace in Israel, Peace in Gaza’, organisers estimated 15,000 were present.
Manchester	United Kingdom	2,000
Marseille	France	4,000	Thousand of people express their support to the Israeli action in Gaza. They denounce the use of civilians as "humans shield" by the Hamas. Organisers claim up to 20,000 attended the demonstration.
Melbourne	Australia	5,000
Mexico City 09/Jan/09	Mexico	800
Mexico City 11/Jan/09	Mexico	1,000
Miami Beach	United States	1,000
Munich	Germany	1,500
Nashville	United States	350	Counterprotest
New York City	United States
Odessa	Ukraine		Local Jews held a pro-Israel rally on the street in front of the Jewish Cultural Center
Oslo	Norway	~300	A January 8 protest by 300 people peacefully supported "Israel's right to defend themselves" outside the Storting was attended by FrP party chairwoman Siv Jensen and KrF politician Ingebrigt Sørfonn, and well protected by 200 policemen. The demonstration ended when fighting erupted between anti-Israeli demonstrators and police resulting in 20 arrests.
Paris	France	4,000	According to organisers, about 12,000 demonstrators gathered.
Phoenix	United States	2,000
Prague	Czech Republic	200
San Francisco	United States
San Salvador	El Salvador	100+	Outside the Israeli embassy. Supporting people of Israel "in their reaction in legitimate defense and telling them we want peace for both sides".
Santiago	Chile	300	Members of Chilean Jewish community and jewish NGO Amisrael
Tbilisi	Georgia	2,500	A small pro-Israeli rally was held on January 5 with demonstrators waving Israeli flags and carrying English-language banners reading: Israel has Right to Defence and Stop Terrorism.
Tel Aviv	Israel	1,000	Students counterprotested at Tel Aviv University, supporting the operation.
Toronto	Canada	5,000	On January 4, 100 counter-protestors rallied outside the Israeli consulate in support of the operation. On January 8, 5,000 gathered at the Beth Tzedek Synagogue.
Tucson	United States	500
Winnipeg	Canada	800
Israeli Embassy	Colombia		A pro-Israeli rally was held outside the Israeli Embassy in Colombia where crowds gathered to express their support for Israel's operation.

Demonstrations calling for peace

Note: The table can be sorted alphabetically or chronologically using the "><" icon.

Location	Country	Size	Notes
Bergen	Norway	~3,000
Bodø	Norway	~150-200	Two demonstrations, both drawing between 150-200 people, with political and religious leaders calling for an end to the violence.
Oslo	Norway	~40,000	A torch march for peace was held through the streets of Oslo, beginning at Youngstorget and ending outside Oslo city hall. All political parties were invited (from the leftist Rødt to the right-wing FrP), along with Oslo bishop Ole Christian Kvarme, LO leader Roar Flåthen, Liberal politician Abid Raja and head of CARE Marte Gerhardsen. Organisers include several trade unions, sport clubs and human rights organisations.
Stavanger	Norway
Tromsø	Norway
Trondheim	Norway
Voss	Norway	~300
Belgrade	Serbia	~300

Violence and Vandalism

A boy with antisemetic sign at a pro-Hamas demonstration in San Francisco

In the reactions to the 2008–2009 Israel–Gaza conflict, there have been acts of vandalism and violence, and one death.

Anti-Semitism acts significantly rise in some country, especially in France, where 55 antisemitic acts were reports since the beginning of the Gaza offensive, compare to the 271 acts for the whole year 2007.

In Britain, the Community Security Trust recorded 101 acts of anti-semitism since Gaza offensive, including 85 in the first two weeks of January 2009.

In Germany and Switzerland, Jewish communities "are facing a growing number of threats and anti-Semitic incitement since the outbreak of the IDF operation in Gaza". The Simon Wiesenthal Center is heavily concerned about the increasing threats against Jewish people .

In Belgium, there is a rise of violent attacks against Jews, including vandalizing of Jew-owned shops.

The Anti-Defamation League recorded a rise on assault against Jews around the world, including a trivialisation of caricatures and comparisons that depict Israelis as Nazis, depicted "daily in the Arab press, in Latin American and even in some mainstream European newspapers."

Location	Country or Location (in the case of the Palestinian Territories)	Nature of attack	Details
Amsterdam	Netherlands	Antisemitic incitement	Some people shouts, "Hamas, Hamas! Jews to the gas!" while a demonstration toke place in the city.
Amran	Yemen	Harassment and threats	Harassment and threats directed at the family of a murdered Jewish citizen of Yemen have escalated in light of the Gaza assault.
Antwerp	Belgium	Antisemitic incitement	Antisemitics slogans, such as "Jews out", were made during a protest demonstration. Afterwards, hundreds of protesters tried to march towards the Jewish neighborhood but were held off by police.
Brussels	Belgium	Arson and vandalism	A Molotov cocktail was thrown at the Beth Hillel Liberal synagogue in Brussels. Rocks and other objects were thrown at a Jewish school. A Jewish home was the subject of an attempted arson.
Camarillo, California	United States	Daubing	A Jewish preschool in Camarillo has become a victim of a hate crime, with swastikas and anti-Semitic messages written in black marker on its sidewalk and walls.
Chicago	United States	Vandalism	A Molotov cocktail was thrown at the North Side temple in Chicago. The glass doors at Lincolnwood Jewish Congregation were shattered by a brick and "Free Palestine" and "Death to Israel" were spray painted on the building.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida	United States	Antisemitic incitement	Anti-Israel protester tells Jews "go back to the ovens".
Helsingborg	Sweden	Arson and assault	An unknown assailant broke a window of a Jewish center, and threw a flaming object at the congregation. The staircase of a Jewish center was twice set on fire
Irvine, California	United States	Daubing	Three letter-sized, hand-written signs were discovered Dec. 30 at Beth Jacob, an Orthodox congregation in Irvine. One poster proclaimed, "Gaza -- The New Shoah" and a second read, "Hamas Recognises Israeli Genocide." Similar posters were found on the same day at the nearby Reform Congregation Shir Ha-Ma'alot.
Kedumim	Israeli settlement in West Bank	Stabbing	Five Israelis were stabbed.
Lille	France	Daubing	The acronym "ZOG" (Zionist Occupation Government) and a swastika have been daubed in Lille's synagogue. Stones also have been thrown on the windows.
Le Puy en Velay	France	Daubing	Police found anti-Semitic graffiti -- "Kill the Jews", as well as "Free Gaza" and "Long Live Palestine" -- daubed on a wall near the local mosque.
London	United Kingdom	Arson	Police are investigating an arson attempt on a synagogue in North London. Assailants splashed liquid on the door and set it on fire.
Los Angeles	United States	Offensive postings	Anti-Israel and pro-Hamas placards were posted at two synagogues.
Modi'in Illit	Israeli settlement in West Bank	Stabbing	A Palestinian labourer stabbed and wounded four Israelis.
Montceau-les-Mines	France	Daubing	Anti-Semitic graffiti -- "Death to the Jews" -- were daubed on a highschool wall
Mulhouse	France	Daubing	Graffiti claiming "Death to Israel" and "Fuck France" have been found on Mulhouse synagogue.
Nice	France	Daubings	Anti-Semitic remarks were daubed on a public primary school.
Odense	Denmark	Shooting	Two Israelis sustain light wounds after being shot at by unknown assailants, allegedly Arab.
Paris	France	Vandalism and daubings	A rabbi's car was vandalised, and antisemitic graffiti was drawn on the wall of a shopping center.
Rada'a	Yemen	Physical assault and vandalism	Some Jewish kids were injured, one seriously, when Muslim students threw stones at them. Anti-Israel protesters also attacked several Jewish homes, smashing windows and pelting them with rocks.
Ramallah	West Bank	Shooting dead	Israeli troops shot dead a protester who was throwing stones
Saint Denis	France	Arson	A firebomb thrown at a synagogue in a Paris suburb burned an adjacent kosher restaurant, the Interior Ministry said. No one was injured.
Schiltigheim	France	Arson	A synagogue in eastern France was the target of three petrol-filled bottle.
Stockholm	Sweden	Daubing	Slogans, including "murderers ... You broke the ceasefire", were daubed on Israel's embassy in Stockholm.
Temple Fortune	United Kingdom	Daubings	Graffiti reading 'Jihad 4 Israel' and 'Kill Jews' daubed on a bus stop.
Toronto	Canada	Antisemitic incitement	Anti-Israel demonstrators yell "You are the brothers of pigs!," and a protester complains to his interviewer that "Hitler didn't do a good job."
Toulouse	France	Vandalism and arson	A burning car was driven into a Synagogue in Toulouse.
Villiers-le-Bel	France	Physical assault and insults	A 14-year-old Jewish girl was physically and verbally assaulted by four teenagers

See also

• Reaction to 2006 Israel-Gaza conflict