The European Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid expresses his increasing concern for the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

"I am extremely concerned by the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza caused by the continued closure of the Gaza crossings. Since 4th November, only one crossing has been open for four days only, with limited quantities of humanitarian food supplies allowed through…

"The continued closure of Gaza crossings is a form of collective punishment against Palestinian civilians, which is a violation of International Humanitarian Law," the European Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid, Louis Michel stated on Saturday in a press release.

Despite the international criticism of Israel's blockade of the Gaza Strip, the regime continues its siege and the area is on the verge of a humanitarian disaster, with more than 1.5 million Gaza residents left without basic supplies such as food, sanitary water and fuel.

The European Commission (EC) stated that Israel should end all obstacles to the freedom of movement of civilians and humanitarian workers as well as actions that can lead to increased numbers of internally displaced people.

The Commissioner said that the neutrality, impartiality and independence of humanitarian organizations must be respected by the Israelis allowing aid representatives immediate, free and secure access to vulnerable Palestinian populations in both Gaza and the West Bank.


Sun, 30 Nov 2008
http://www.presstv.com/detail.aspx?id=76968§ionid=351020605
Pic: European Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid, Louis Michel