Gaza conference: survival rations will not rebuild Gaza

JERUSALEM — As donors are set to meet at a key conference hosted by Egypt in Sharm Al-Sheikh tomorrow to raise funds to help rebuild the Gaza Strip, international agency Oxfam International warned that unless key goods are allowed in and Israel ends its blockade, reconstructing Gaza will not happen.

The agency revealed that only a fraction of the range of goods needed are being allowed. Oxfam stressed the importance of financial contributions at Sharm but warned that without pressure on Israel to let essential goods such as school supplies and building materials enter, these contributions will not lead to reconstruction in Gaza. The agency calculates that more than 80 percent of all goods currently allowed into Gaza are basic foods, such as fruit, dairy, flour, oil, and sugar. Oxfam said that the tap has been turned off on essential goods needed for agriculture and rebuilding, as well as clothing, shoes, and supplies for education.

"The people of Gaza have been restricted to survival rations now for over 20 months. Restrictions on food types, clothing, and school books are keeping innocent children underfed, cold, and uneducated. Hospitals, schools, and thousands of homes need to be rebuilt. We cannot talk seriously about rebuilding Gaza without the opening of all crossings," said Oxfam International Executive Director Jeremy Hobbs.

Hobbs: "This conference won't serve its purpose if essential goods are still being blocked from getting in. What Gazans need today goes beyond basic humanitarian supplies."

Oxfam said that as a wide range of substantial goods needs to get through—such as agricultural materials, cement, glass, and plastic pipes—opening crossings capable of handling all goods was vital. The international agency says that the Karni crossing, the most sophisticated and strategic entry point to the Strip, must be re-opened immediately. For the time being, the flow of goods and supplies into Gaza is restricted to one inadequate, remote, and costly entry point.