Press Release - Date of Release: 31 July 2006

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the killing of 57 civilians by Israeli air strike in Lebanon.

The President expressed his concern at the continuation of war and civilian casualties and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a ceasefire.

The President called on the international community to assist in seeking a peaceful settlement to the current crisis.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his deep sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and to the people of Lebanon.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President