United Nations Radio

The UN Humanitarian Relief Coordinator just back from a needs assessment mission to Gaza, told the UN Security Council that he will launch a flash appeal for the reconstruction of Gaza on February 2nd.

John Holmes visited the area only five days after the ceasefire was declared. He said he expected to see a distressing situation, but was nevertheless shocked by the extent of the suffering and destruction. One out of every 215 Gazans was either killed or injured during the three weeks of fighting between Israel and Hamas.

child looking at the devastation in Gaza

Mr. Holmes noted that even before the attack of December 27th, the people of Gaza existed in what is effectively a giant open-air prison, without normality or dignity. This, he said, is not sustainable or acceptable:

"It can only lead to more despair, suffering, death and destruction in the coming years, and perhaps fatally undermine the two-state solution we all seek. It must therefore be in the long-term interests of all parties, including Israel, to ease conditions for the people of Gaza, by opening the crossings, facilitating the provision of assistance and allowing them to live, work and hope again."

John Holmes said there are two conditions for the UN to be able to help Gaza. One is for Israel to allow much freer access for goods and staff and the other is for each side to refrain from exerting political control over humanitarian operations.

Reporting for UN Radio, I'm Bissera Kostova.
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