In his first public comments on Friday's non-binding opinion by the U.N.'s top legal body, Sharon said the bombing was carried out "under the auspices of the ruling," suggesting the decision would only encourage Palestinian violence.

"I want to make clear, the state of Israel absolutely rejects the ruling of the International Court of Justice in The Hague (news - web sites)," Sharon said. "It is a one-sided and politically motivated ruling."

In Bangkok, U.N. Security General Kofi Annan (news - web sites) suggested that Israel ought to accept the World Court's ruling despite its security needs.

"While we accept that the government of Israel has the responsibility and duty to protect its citizens, any action it takes has to be in conformity with international law," Annan said.

# posted by Squach : 11:18 AM   |