The New Nation - Internet Edition

AP, United Nations

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon heads to the Mideast on Tuesday to step up diplomatic efforts to get Israel and Hamas to adhere to a U.N. cease-fire resolution in the Gaza Strip and allow humanitarian aid into the devastated Palestinian territory.

Since Israel launched its air and ground offensive on Dec. 27, Ban said he has been on the phone constantly with top officials in the Middle East, Europe and the United States promoting a cease-fire. But he said phone calls aren't a substitute for direct talks with leaders who have influence on the parties.

"To both sides, I say: Just stop, now," the U.N. chief told a news conference Monday. "Too many people have died.