Oxfam America

Breaking the Impasse

Briefing Note

Published: November 2007

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Publication Summary

Since January 2006, the people in the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt) have faced increasing suffering due to an array of policies adopted by the government of Israel and Western donors in the aftermath of Hamas’ victory in the parliamentary elections. For its part, Hamas has failed to stop armed Palestinian groups from undertaking indiscriminate rocket attacks on Israel. These attacks are unacceptable and must end. Nevertheless, the Israeli government's blockade of the Gaza Strip constitutes collective punishment and cannot be justified.

This briefing note considers the current situation in the Gaza strip and the West Bank, and draws out some important considerations and challenges for the Annapolis meeting and the process of securing peace.

What is Oxfam Doing »

Oxfam's work in Israel and the occupied Palestinian Territories focuses on helping marginalized communities claim their rights, assisting those living in poverty to improve their incomes, responding to humanitarian needs, and working to end a conflict that has eroded the rights, security, and livelihoods of so many in the region.