18 May 2021

International pressure for peace in Israel-Palestine grows

From Morning Report, 8:09 am on 18 May 2021

Conflict between Israel and Palestine has reached the deadliest levels in years as a second week of fighting begins.

The Gaza health ministry says more than 200 people have been killed since last Monday including atleast 59 children. Israeli military has reported killing a key leader of the Islamic Jihaad and targetting Hamas tunnels.

International pressure for peace in the region have intensified though critics believe international powers should do more to end the deadly attacks.

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken says US authorities are working intesively behind the scenes to end the violence.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has voiced solidarity with Israel and called for a swift end to fighting.

World Health Organisation Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is calling for the protection of health facilities in Gaza which are severly depleted.

Corin Dann spoke to BBC Correspondent Paul Adams, who is in Jerusalem.