Jerusalem, 23 February 1999 Statement to the media by Foreign Minister Ariel Sharon, February 20, 1999   "Israel very much appreciates the handling by the German government and security forces of the demonstrations in front of the Israeli missions in Germany. Israel also thanks the Montreal police, who prevented an assault on our consulate there. Israel has long-standing friendly relations with the Kurdish people, and has no connection whatsoever with the Ocalan affair." Foreign Minister Sharon stressed that "Israel will not tolerate harm to its missions or citizens anywhere in the world, and will defend them from terrorism and violence by any means necessary, in coordination with the local authorities."