Govt backs calls to halt Gaza violence

The federal government is refusing to condemn the Israeli invasion of Gaza, but is
supporting calls for a halt to all violence.
Tens of thousands of Israeli troops backed by tanks have been battling Hamas
fighters as the Palestinian death toll from the offensive to end militant rocket
attacks passes 510.
The Israeli government is resisting intense international pressure over its biggest
military operation since the 2006 war in Lebanon.
Acting Prime Minister Julia Gillard said on Monday that Australia supported a United
Nations Security Council resolution calling on both sides to halt all violence.
Australia recognised the right of Israel to defend itself, Ms Gillard said.
"But we have urged Israel to be very mindful of the civilians involved, of the
prospect of civilian casualties," she told ABC Radio.
The government has previously condemned Hamas rocket attacks on Israel.
Australia wanted a lasting and stable solution which ended violence in Gaza and
Israel, Ms Gillard said.