REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, PARIS -- France's President Francois Hollande on Wednesday condemned the "heinous" kidnapping and death of a young Palestinian in Jerusalem.
The 16-year-old, Mohammed Abu Khder, was killed in an apparent act of revenge for the murder by militants of three Israeli youths whose bodies were discovered earlier this week.
A statement released from the Elysee Palace said Hollande "condemns in the strongest possible manner this heinous crime and sends his condolences to his family".
Hollande also called on Israelis and Palestinians to show the "utmost restraint" and take steps to avoid any escalation of conflict through further bloodshed and reprisals.
There were further clashes on Wednesday between Palestinians and police in east Jerusalem following the teenager's killing.
Tensions have soared across the region since June 12 when three Israeli teenagers disappeared while hitchhiking in the West Bank.
Their bodies were discovered on Monday, with Israel blaming Hamas and vowing to retaliate.