The resolution was adopted by a large majority. Only three countries voted against in the Human Rights Council. Of the nine European members of the Council, Norway and Slovenia voted in favour of the resolution, five EU countries abstained from voting, and Italia and the Netherlands voted against.
The Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said: 'We are pleased that concrete steps are now being taken to establish fact-finding mission to investigate the incident and possible violations of international law. It is important that the commission works closely with the UN Security Council and the Secretary-General in this matter.'
'What is permitted in situations like this one is clearly defined in international law. The rules of international law cannot be set aside for political or military purposes,' said the Foreign Minister.
The Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg condemned the Israeli boarding of the humanitarian convoy to Gaza, which led to the loss of civilian lives. 'A military attack against civilian activists is totally unacceptable. We are shocked at the news that Israeli naval forces have attacked ships bringing humanitarian aid to Gaza', said the Prime Minister.
There were Norwegian citizens on board ships in the convoy, and Norwegian authorities have been monitoring the situation in order to assist the Norwegians.
The convoy was on its way to Gaza carrying emergency relief supplies when it was boarded by Israeli naval forces Sunday night, apparently in international waters. The clash occurred when the forces boarded the largest vessel. The Israeli authorities have imposed tight restrictions on the release of information. Israel has defended its actions by claiming that there were suspected terrorists and weapons on board the convoy.
Norway has repeatedly stated that the Israeli blockade of Gaza must be lifted.
Written by Trude Løw Hansen, Royal Norwegian Embassy