Khan Yunis (Gaza Strip): UN chief Ban
Ki-moon slammed Israel`s blockade of the Gaza Strip saying it
caused "unacceptable sufferings," during a visit on Sunday to the
Hamas-run coastal enclave.
"I have repeatedly made it quite clear to Israel`s
leaders that the Israeli policy of closure is not sustainable
and that it`s wrong," Ban told reporters in the southern Gaza
Strip town Khan Yunis.
"It causes unacceptable sufferings to ... the people
and population" of Gaza, he said.
"This policy is also counterproductive. It prevents
legitimate commerce and encourages smuggling. It undercuts
moderates and empowers extremists."
The UN chief crossed into the impoverished territory
earlier today, expressing solidarity with the plight of the
Palestinians and urging Israel to end its tight blockade.
This was his second visit to the Gaza Strip since
Israel`s 22-day offensive on Gaza aimed at halting rocket fire
ended in January 2009.
Ban also toured some of the hardest-hit areas of Gaza
before inaugurating projects to build 150 homes, a flour mill
and a sewage treatment plant, all of which he said were
approved by Israel in recent days.
However, Ban said more reconstruction was needed,
calling the projects a "drop in the bucket."
"I have seen much damage (to many) houses, it is quite
distressing," he said.
PTI
