Cowen condemns invasion and demands ceasefire

ISRAEL’S invasion of Gaza was strongly condemned by Taoiseach Brian Cowen last night as he demanded an immediate ceasefire.

In a forceful response to the Israeli ground assault, Mr Cowen expressed frustration the UN security council had not moved to end the fighting.

With dozens more Palestinian civilians killed as Israeli troops and tanks stormed into position around Gaza’s main city following a week-long aerial bombardment, Mr Cowen used the example of the Northern Ireland peace process as proof that only dialogue could bring security as he expressed “condemnation” for the invasion.