answer text |
<p>We remain deeply concerned by the situation in Gaza. Officials from our Embassy
and Consulate General regularly raise the need to make progress towards a durable
solution for Gaza, and press for practical steps to advance reconstruction and economic
development with both the Israeli Government and the Palestinian Authority (PA).</p><p>We
have urged the PA to make progress on resuming control in Gaza. We are also urging
Egypt to show maximum flexibility in opening the Rafah crossing.</p><p>We have welcomed
the steps that Israel has taken to ease some restrictions, including extension of
the fishing zone to nine nautical miles, extension of agricultural exports beyond
the shmita year, increase of water supply and support for energy and desolation projects.
We urge Israel to take further action to ease restrictions.</p><p>We are concerned
about recent reports of diversion of cement entering Gaza through the Gaza Reconstruction
Mechanism (GRM). While we understand Israeli security concerns, new restrictions on
the import of cement have resulted in a slowdown in reconstruction activity and will
have a significant impact on employment. The Department for International Development
support to the Materials Monitoring Unit of the GRM also helps provide monitoring
to ensure construction materials are used for civilian purposes.</p>
|
|