Jordan condemns Israeli Gaza assault

Jordan on Saturday condemned Israel's deadly assault against Hamas-ruled Gaza, demanding an immediate halt to its land operation and air strikes.

"The kingdom strongly condemns Israel's continued aggression and demands an immediate halt of its attacks, which violate international law," acting Foreign Minister Nasser Judah said, quoted by state-run Petra news agency.

"Firm and decisive international intervention is needed to pressure Israel, protect civilians and prevent more deterioration of the Palestinian humanitarian situation."

Israel's assault on northern Gaza killed more than 40 Palestinians on Saturday, making it the deadliest day of Israeli-Palestinian fighting in the Hamas-ruled territory in more than a year, according to medics.

"A just peace, and not violence, would guarantee security for Israel," said Judeh.

"Israeli military operations and measures are dangerous and have become a source of deep concern for Jordan and the entire region," he said.