Gaza Attack Deeply Distressing

Posted By: Alan Taylor
Date Posted: 07/01/2009

On behalf of the Rochdale Liberal Democrat Group, I would like to acknowledge the many people in our Borough that feel saddened and distressed by the unfolding events in Gaza.

Gaza is one of the poorest and most populated places on Earth and has suffered a blockade over the past two years which has seriously disrupted the supply of electricity, clean water and medical facilities.

Israel’s military strikes on Gaza are nothing short of an outrage; one in which the global community should be openly condemning. Palestinian rocket attacks that have traumatised the lives of communities in southern Israel are also utterly unacceptable.

I feel that Israel’s recent military actions are totally disproportionate and are counterproductive in working towards the achievement of home security and a lasting peace for their people and the region as a whole.

Israel has now agreed “on the principles” of a ceasefire proposal but this has to come from both sides. Let’s hope that this is the first step in the long road to a lasting, peaceful, settlement.