Canada blames Hamas, calls for 'durable' ceasefire in Gaza

OTTAWA (AFP) — Canada on Sunday Jan 4 2009 urged a "sustainable and durable" ceasefire in Gaza, a day after Israeli troops poured into the embattled territory, and called for a halt to rocket attacks from Hamas.

"Canada is deeply concerned by the increase in hostilities between Israel and Hamas," said Foreign Minister Lawrence Cannon in a statement.

"We urge renewed international diplomatic efforts to achieve a sustainable and durable ceasefire, starting with the halting of all rocket attacks on Israel."

Rocket attacks from Hamas militants and other factions into southern Israel were to blame for the crisis, said Cannon, adding that civilian safety has to be taken into account as the conflict intensifies.

"Just as urgent diplomatic efforts are needed to bring about an end to this crisis, it is essential that the international community come together to address the humanitarian situation," he said. "This includes ensuring access to food, medical and fuel supplies."

Tens of thousands of Israeli troops backed by tanks battled Hamas Sunday, on the ninth day of a massive military operation on the Islamist-controlled territory as the Palestinian death toll from the offensive passed 500.

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