LONDON, June 1, 2010 (WAFA)- Richard Burden British MP, Chair of the Britain-Palestine All Party Parliamentary Group, has demanded that Israel be held to account for its appalling attack on the Gaza aid flotilla.
A parliamentary motion calling for a full investigation and an end to the blockade of Gaza will be tabled by Mr Burden when the House of Commons sits tomorrow afternoon.
Richard Burden MP said:
‘I am appalled at the attack on the flotilla of ships carrying vital humanitarian aid to Gaza and this tragic loss of life.
‘The United Nations Secretary General has called for a prompt, impartial, credible and transparent investigation into exactly how this happened. For far too long Israel has appeared to reject any notion that it should be held accountable for its actions in relation to Gaza. This must not be allowed to continue.
‘Israel’s blockade has punished the people of Gaza for the last three years – the economy has been wrecked; hospitals, schools and homes destroyed during Operation Cast Lead cannot be rebuilt; poverty and widespread suffering continues. This is collective punishment and contrary to international law. Israel must lift their blockade.
‘And this is it yet another reminder that the international community must redouble efforts to secure a lasting peace settlement with a secure and independent state of Palestine alongside a secure and independent Israel.’
