The "Quartet" Demands Change in Gaza

Earlier today, the United States, the United Nations, the European Union and the Russia Federation (together called the Middle East Quartet) jointly issued a statement demanding change in Israel's policy towards Gaza. In the Quartet's official statement, they stated that the "current situation in Gaza, including the humanitarian and human rights situation of the civilian population, is unsustainable, unacceptable, and not in the interests of any of those concerned." The role of the international organizations, such as the UN, and non-governmental organizations was emphasized in the effort to meet the needs of the people in Gaza. The Quartet said that it would closely monitor the change in Israel's blockade while also encouraging all forms of aid go through "established channels so that their cargo can be inspected."

This statement comes just a few days after Israel announced that it would be allowing more freedom in its blockade of Gaza. Despite the loosening of its hold, cement and iron are still banned by Israel's blockade. Palestinian's claim that these items are necessary for repairing damaged infrastructure, but Israel claims that they can be used for increasing defense preparations. Israel's blockade has come under intense international scrutiny since Israeli forces raided a Palestinian-bound flotilla, which was carrying aid to the strip, and killed 9 passengers. Since the incident the US has promised over $400 million in aid to Gaza for poverty reduction efforts and economic reconstruction.
SOURCES: Official Statement by the Quartet, US Assistant to Gaza

US to Give $483 million to Gaza for Poverty Reduction

On Wednesday June 9th, President Obama announced in a press conference that the US would be giving $483 million to help the 1.5 million people living in poverty along the Gaza strip. As stated in an article in The National, this money has been earmarked for "funding infrastructure projects, improving home ownerships and creating jobs" and "building schools, repairing a hospital, and fixing water distribution and wastewater collection systems." This money will aid in rebuilding Gaza and its economy, as Israel's 3 year long blockade has effectively cut off Gaza from the rest of the world. President Obama also reaffirmed the US's support to finding an Israel-Palestine peace agreement during the press conference. The President stressed the need for Israel to focus its blockade more towards only preventing weapons from entering Gaza, while allowing imports, exports, and humanitarian efforts to help the people in need. In the past, the US has been criticized for its one sided support of Israel during the ongoing conflict. However, President Obama pushed that aside in his humanitarian effort to improve the plight of the Palestinians.

-Matthew Thwaites

SOURCES: The National Newspaper Article on the US aid, France 24 Article on the $483 million Palestine Aid Package