The United States is deeply concerned over reports that fighting on December 7 between government forces and the LTTE in the Vakarai area has occurred dangerously close to civilian populations. In particular, we condemn the reported shelling by the LTTE of a school that led to the serious injury of several students. We call on both sides to cease hostilities and take all possible measures to ensure that innocent civilians are not harmed. We reiterate that the solution to this conflict is not a military one, and can only be achieved throughpeacefulnegotiation.