Patel presses government on preventing terrorist infiltration of Gaza aid agencies
Middle East minister says Israeli ban on 37 NGOs' is not acceptable'
Conservative shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel has questioned the government over what was being done to stop “terrorists infiltrating aid agencies” in Gaza.
She told the Commons: “We’ve heard so much in recent weeks and months about terrorists infiltrating aid agencies and diverting aid.
“What discussions has he had with ministers within the Israeli government, as well as his counterparts, to work with them to find practical solutions that address the serious concerns that have been raised, so that more aid can get through and is not compromised by terrorists?”
Middle East Minister Hamish Falconer responded by saying many were “credible charities supported by the British public who have donated generously over the course of Christmas”.
He added, “There have, of course, been concerns in relation to aid in Gaza. We have ensured, wherever they have been raised, they have been investigated, but we should not let that take away from the credibility of the organisations involved.
“It is vital that those aid agencies are able to work – 30% of Gazans cannot afford basic food.”
Falconer also said the Israeli government agreed to let in aid without interference through the UN and other organisations when they signed the Gaza peace plan.
However, Israel has now banned 37 NGOs, including six branches of Doctors Without Borders and two Oxfam branches, and “too much aid” is still stuck at the border, he said.
Falconer told MPs: “More trucks are entering Gaza, and this is very welcome, but right now, key crossings remain closed, convoys are being turned back, medical and shelter supplies are blocked, and NGOs are being banned.
“We joined nine other countries in stating that this is not acceptable, over recess. The peace plan cannot work if NGOs are shut out. Israel’s decision to ban 37 of them is unjustifiable.
“Furthermore, many trucks entering Gaza carry commercial goods, which face fewer barriers than humanitarian aid.
“This means, perversely, it is currently easier to get cigarettes and luxury goods into Gaza than the basic medicines and shelter that people so desperately need.
“Too much aid is still stuck at Gaza’s borders. Thousands of tents and shelter supplies funded by the UK are waiting to get in.”
Israel has said it has credible intelligence showing links between Hamas and some of the aid agencies.
On Monday, the embassy of the state of Palestine officially opened in the UK, marking what the Palestinian envoy Husam Zomlot said was a “historic moment”.
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