Israel's Ambassador summoned to the Ministry for Foreign Affairs
"In view of the very serious incident and the boarding of the humanitarian fleet, we summoned the Israeli Ambassador this morning and requested an explanation of what has occurred and what has happened to our compatriots," said State Secretary for Foreign Affairs Frank Belfrage at a specially convened press conference on the events in the waters off Israel and Gaza on Monday morning. Mr Belfrage deeply deplored the loss of life.
"What has happened is completely unacceptable and if, moreover, these events have occurred in international waters this is even more serious and Europe must react strongly," said Mr Belfrage. Sweden has requested that the EU's Political and Security Committee (PSC) be convened and it will meet at 15.00 this afternoon in Brussels. Minister for Foreign Affairs Carl Bildt was in direct contact with the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton, this morning.
"It is important now to clarify the facts but the Israelis say about ten people are dead and a number injured. According to our information, the ships are now on their way to Ashdod. Our embassy in Tel Aviv has sent personnel there so we can reach our fellow citizens on board. We expect more information during the day as the matter develops."
