Weeks after Left prod, Centre deplores ‘use of force’ in Gaza

Earlier, the Congress party, on January 29, urged for an “immediate lifting of the blockade” by Israeli forces to allow urgently-needed relief supplies to reach the besieged civilian population. “The recent developments in Gaza, escalation of violence and the siege by Israeli forces have caused distress and severe hardship to the civilian population, especially the women and children,” the AICC had said.

Prior to this, the CPI(M) Politburo had, on January 22, condemned the Israeli action in Gaza and criticised the UPA Government for its “silence” on “this criminal blockade by Israel”. “The UPA Government should demand an end to the blockade of the Gaza Strip forthwith. It should call for an urgent Security Council session to discuss the matter,” said the Politburo on January 22.

The MEA spokesperson said the “recent moves” by the Egyptian Government to address humanitarian needs through dialogue, including among the Palestinian groups, deserve support. “Peace cannot wait much longer, and threatens to become a casualty in the region and for its peoples, irrespective of boundaries, cultures and history. The time to act is now with trust and understanding for a new beginning of hope and fulfillment, and an end to violence. It is imperative that normalcy be restored expeditiously so that aspirations of the people in the region are realised,” the spokesperson said in an official statement.

The Government even pledged more support: “We stand ready to extend additional assistance to help the people of Palestine to overcome the suffering they are facing now.” It said that a package of such assistance is being worked out and will be announced shortly.