The Human Rights Council has adopted a resolution condemning the "outrageous attack by the Israeli forces against the humanitarian flotilla of ships", which took place on 31 May 2010. The resolution, adopted following an urgent debate during its 14th session, calls on Israel "to immediately lift the siege on occupied Gaza and other occupied Territories".
During the debate, the Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights noted that while details are still emerging, the attack against the humanitarian flotilla took place in international waters, and that any investigation into the incident must be "prompt, impartial, credible and independent" and in line with international standards. Outlining that the Israeli military‟s use of force was "highly excessive", the Deputy High Commissioner concluded with the hope that the Government of Israel will do what is necessary to "demonstrate to the international community a clear commitment to abide by international law".
Israel has rejected requests for an international independent investigation and insists on conducting its own internal investigation as well as a military inquiry. While the format of the investigation is yet to become clear, Israel is expected to appoint a state panel of justices to carry out the investigations and will concede to allowing two international observers, one of whom is likely to be from the US.
To view the speech of the Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights in full, please follow the link http://www.ohchr.org/EN/NewsEvents/Pages/DisplayNews.aspx?NewsID=10091&LangID=e.