EU deplores civilian deaths in Israel's Gaza assault

BRUSSELS, Nov 5 (Reuters) Israel should not use disproportionate force to defend itself against Palestinian militants, EU President Finland said, criticising growing civilian casualties in fighting in the Gaza Strip.

Finland also called on the Palestinian leadership to stop militants firing rockets into Israel, acts which have prompted Israel's largest operation since the army and Jewish settlers pulled out of Gaza in 2005, after 38 years of occupation.

''The Presidency deplores the growing number of civilian casualties the Israeli military operation has caused,'' Finland said in a statement.

''The right of all states to defend themselves does not justify disproportionate use of violence or actions which are contrary to international humanitarian law.'' Israel's five-day operation in and around the northern Gaza town of Beit Hanoun, where troops and tanks are operating with the backing of fighter jets and helicopters, has left at least 47 Palestinians dead, around half of them civilians.

One Israeli soldier has also been killed.

''The Presidency calls on the Palestinian leadership to bring an end to terrorist activities, including the firing of rockets on Israeli territory,'' Finland said.

Reuters SP RN1820