United Nations, Dhu-AlHijjah 28, 1433, Nov 13, 2012, SPA - U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Monday said he was concerned about the violence in Gaza and Southern Israel that has claimed the lives of Palestinians. “The Secretary-General is greatly concerned by the new wave of violence in Gaza and Southern Israel, which has resulted in several Palestinian deaths, including civilians, and wounded people on both sides,” U.N. spokesperson Martin Nesirky said in a news briefing. “He deplores the loss of life and calls for an immediate de-escalation of tensions.” “Both sides should do everything to avoid further escalation and must respect their obligations under international humanitarian law to ensure the protection of civilians at all times,” Nesirky said. --SPA 10:58 LOCAL TIME 07:58 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/1048176