The European Parliament today voted in favour of an all-party resolution calling on the Israeli Government to lift restrictions on movement across the Israel-Gaza border.
Commenting on the result, Jean Lambert MEP, who recently returned from a fact-finding mission to Israel and Gaza, said:
"I am pleased that parliament has taken such as strong stance on this issue. As a result of the blockade the people of Gaza are facing a humanitarian crisis.
"There are insufficient drugs available in hospitals to provide basic care and in some areas food assistance only fulfils about two-thirds of daily requirements. The fishing industry, which employed about 10,000 people, is under severe stress as boats cannot stray far from the coast.
"An ecological disaster could also be imminent as the Beit Lahia sewage plant in Gaza is failing, but essential maintenance supplies cannot be obtained. Businesses cannot survive and the unemployed are having to find work with the smugglers and extremists.
"While the rocket attacks on Israel continue, the few armed militants involved threaten the peace and the future of the many, both Israeli and Palestinian. Hamas must stop the perpetrators and Israel must recognise that the current siege will not aid long-term security."