Review intelligence cooperation with Israel : CPI(M)

Kolkata, July 31 (UNI) Denouncing the Israeli bombing in southern Lebanon, the CPI (M) today demanded that the UPA Government review the intelligence and security cooperation with Jerusalem.

''The Government of India should follow up its condemnation of the Israeli aggression on Lebanon by immediately halting buying of weapons. It should also review the intelligence and security coopoeration,'' the party's Politbureau said.

In a statement, the Politbureau said thousands of Indians were fleeing Lebanon losing their livelihood and belongings because of the Israeli aggression.

''The UPA Government should realise that the close strategic ties with Israel forged by the previous BJP-led Government is unconscionable and harmful for India's vital interests,'' it said adding that India had become the second largest customer in buying Israeli weapons worth 1.5 billion dollars per annum.

Condemning the Israeli air attack on Qana village in which 54 people, including 34 children were killed, the Politbureau said in a statement that UN Security Council should immediately call upon Israel to stop its military actions in Lebanon and the Gaza strip.

''A security force under the United Nation's auspices must be placed on both sides of the border to ensure a ceasfire and prevent Israel from occupying any portion of Lebanon,'' it said.

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