MARIA LILIBETH DA CORTE
EL UNIVERSAL

President Hugo Chávez recalled Héctor Quintero, the chief of the diplomatic mission to Israel. He condemned Israeli actions in Palestine and Lebanon and regretted that the world is "cross-armed."

Quintero acted as chargé of affaires and headed the delegation in Israel, as he was the highest ranking official.

"I have recalled our ambassador to Israel. It is outrageous to witness how the Israeli state continues shelling, killing and cutting apart so many innocents with gringo planes and the US support," Chávez said during his speech on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of Generalissimo Francisco de Miranda's expedition and the Navy Day, in La Vela de Coro, western Falcón state.

"We wonder why nobody does anything to stop such a horror. The US Government has not let the Security Council take action in order to stop Israel' genocide against Lebanon," he added.

Chávez insisted on saying that Washington has launched an "immoral campaign" to prevent Venezuela's incorporation into the Security Council, "because we will defend the right of those who continue being mobbed by the imperialism."

Shielded nation
The head of state announced the establishment in Venezuela of anti-aircraft defenses. "Any plane trying to violate the Venezuelan territory will be knocked down 100 kilometers before coming in."

He noted that during his tour of Russia, Belarus and Iran; he inspected a "wonderful anti-aircraft defense and equipment that detect the target at a distance of 200 kilometers. We will shield Venezuela."

Further, a political-ideological commission with the participation of Vietnam government officials will be created to discuss issues related to socialism. The committee will be composed of "deputies, political leaders, and, why not?, military officers."

New date
Additionally, the ruler advised on the change of the National Flag Day to August 3rd.

"We will commemorate this day as we, patriots, revolutionaries, should do -to honor Miranda, the Independence cause and revolution."

 Translated by Conchita Delgado