NZ needs to assist UN with aid for Gaza

The New Zealand Government should support the United Nation’s efforts to raise money to assist humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza, the Green Party said today.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has made a $60 million appeal for Gaza.

“New Zealand must be part of the United Nation’s response to the humanitarian catastrophe caused by Israel’s bombardment and ground invasion of the Gaza Strip,” said Green Party global affairs spokesperson Dr Kennedy Graham.

“Responding to the United Nation’s urgent appeal for aid would show the people of Gaza that New Zealanders care about their plight.

“The New Zealand Government should also be using all available diplomatic channels, including calling in the Israeli ambassador, to call for a cessation of Israel’s ground offensive.

“Every day that Israel’s offensive continues costs the lives of dozens of Palestinian civilians and adds to the suffering of the civilian population of Gaza.

“The New Zealand Government needs to take a stronger stand against the Israeli assault on the people of Gaza, which has resulted in appalling civilian casualties.

“During the 2009 ground invasion more than 1000 people lost their lives, the vast majority of whom were civilians.

“While Hamas is not without blame in this current crisis, to prevent further civilian casualties the main focus needs to be on stopping the current Israeli ground offensive,” said Dr Graham.

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