UNRWA: Words of sympathy not enough, Gaza needs practical steps to lift siege

UNRWA: Words of sympathy not enough, Gaza needs practical steps to lift siege

John Ging, the director of UNRWA operations in the Gaza Strip, has said that the people of Gaza are in not in need of words of sympathy but rather need tangible action.


Ging, speaking to Al-Jazeera TV network last night, said that the closure of all Gaza crossings was “political”, and described what is happening in Gaza as “shameful”.


He said that Israel should retain Gaza crossings completely open and not just to allow limited quantities that do not meet the people”s needs.


The 30 trucks of food allowed by Israel on Tuesday constitute only 10% of UNRWA”s daily needs, Ging said, adding that the amounts were not enough to keep people alive. He explained that people in the streets of Gaza can not find bread to eat.


The UNRWA official said that shortages are rampant in all foodstuffs and 70% of Gaza is without power other than the bad conditions of hospitals and potable water.


Ging renewed calls on Israel to open the Gaza crossings and asked the Arab and western countries to extend assistance to the besieged Gaza inhabitants.