Brown in UK naval offer for Gaza
By Wire News Sources on January 17, 2009
Prime Minister Gordon Brown has offered British naval resources to help monitor events in the Gaza conflict and stop weapons being smuggled in. He wants to help ensure protection and monitoring of the crossings into Gaza. Mr Brown said: “I’m more hopeful that there will be a ceasefire. We will do everything we can to prevent the arms trading at the root of the problems.”
The BBC understands the Israeli cabinet is set to approve an end to military activities in the Gaza Strip.
Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert is expected to address the nation following a meeting with top officials on Saturday. It is thought the deal does not involve Hamas, the militants targeted by Israel during three weeks of military action.
Explaining he had been involved in talks with Mr Olmert and Palestinian Authority president Mahmoud Abbas, Mr Brown added: “I believe there is general understanding that the appalling violence should come to an end as quickly as possible.
“Germany, France and Great Britain have just sent a letter to Israel and Egypt to say they will do everything we can to prevent arms trafficking.
“I believe that will help get a solution to this crisis. If the ceasefire comes, we have people ready to bring supplies into Gaza. We’re prepared to help move children, to take them out of the area so they can be treated elsewhere.
“We’re also determined that we do everything in our power to deal with unexploded bombs so that people feel more secure in the Gaza area.”
He promised that Britain would be increasing its humanitarian aid over the next five years.
“Britain will not be lacking in support. We’re prepared to give to heal the suffering that is obvious in Gaza,” he added.
The Palestinian health ministry in Gaza has told the BBC that 1,193 people have been killed, including 410 children and 108 women, since the conflict began on 27 December.
There were 5,300 people wounded, including 1,600 children, the ministry said.
Thirteen Israelis, mostly soldiers, have been killed during the campaign.
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