More Quotes
The parliamentary Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC): “There has to be a significant risk that some of the country’s chemical weapons stockpile could fall into the hands of those with links to terrorism, in Syria or elsewhere in the region…If this happens, the consequences could be catastrophic.”
Israeli Defence Minister Moshe Ya’alon: “We see war seeping from Syria to Lebanon, and we follow what happens in Tripoli and Beirut…This is a struggle between Shiites and Sunnis. We watch but we don’t interfere…We haven’t intervened in the Syrian bloodshed in a long time. We’ve drawn our red lines and we keep to them.”
(Ynetnews)
Foreign Secretary William Hague: “It is for the Egyptian people to chart a way forward. However in our view this should include a path to free and fair elections in which all parties can compete, the release of political leaders and journalists, and work to agree a constitution and the checks and balances of a democratic system that respects the rights of all Egypt’s citizens. Urgent steps to improve economic conditions in the country are also vital.”
U.S. President Barack Obama: “During this uncertain period, we expect the military to ensure that the rights of all Egyptian men and women are protected, including the right to peaceful assembly, due process, and free and fair trials in civilian courts. In the interim, I urge all sides to avoid violence and come together to ensure the lasting restoration of Egypt’s democracy,”
(source: Guardian)
Foreign Secretary William Hague: “The United Kingdom does not support military intervention as a way to resolve disputes in a democratic system…The chance of a democratic future was hard won for Egypt by the Egyptian people two and a half years ago. But looking forward, we call on all parties to show the leadership and vision needed to restore and renew Egypt’s democratic transition. It is vital for them to respond to the strong desire of the Egyptian people for faster economic and political progress for their country. In our view this must involve a political process that includes all groups on an equal footing leading to early and fair elections which all parties are able to contest, and civilian-led government… In the long run only democratic processes and government by consent will bring the stability and prosperity that the people of Egypt seek.”
(source: the Guardian)
Shadow Foreign Secretary Douglas Alexander: “So let me say very clearly – especially to those within our own Labour movement – desist from a language of de-legitimisation; stop the movement to sever academic and trade union links; now is the time to deepen, not weaken, our economic and cultural ties across the region.
Supporters of peace must be prepared to recognise and defend Israel’s achievements.”
full speech here.