Israel barrier violates resolution, says UN

ISRAEL was yesterday found in violation of a UN resolution demanding it halt construction of a barrier that in places juts deep into the West Bank and dismantle the section already built.

In a report to the General Assembly, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan said the construction of the barrier a network of fences, walls, razor wire and trenches was in violation of international law and "could damage the longer-term prospects for peace."

Annan's report was requested by the resolution demanding that Israel tear down the barrier it says is needed to protect Israelis from suicide bombers.