January 01, 2009
AUSTRALIA has pledged an extra $5 million in aid for the people of the Gaza Strip, with the Federal Government saying it is deeply saddened by the loss of life there.
About 400 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli air strikes in the Gaza Strip in recent days, following the breakdown of a ceasefire arrangement.
Acting Prime Minister Julia Gillard said today that Australia strongly supported calls for an immediate halt to the violence.
"The Australian Government also urges Israel, Hamas and other militant groups to make every effort to avoid causing further suffering to innocent civilians," she said.
Ms Gillard said the Government would give an extra $5 million worth of aid and stood ready to give more.
The assistance would help ensure Palestinians had adequate access to much needed basic goods, such as food and medical supplies, she said.
The aid will be delivered through multilateral agencies such as the United Nations Relief and Works Agency.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is strongly advising Australians not to travel to the Gaza Strip or the West Bank.
AUSTRALIA has pledged an extra $5 million in aid for the people of the Gaza Strip, with the Federal Government saying it is deeply saddened by the loss of life there.
About 400 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli air strikes in the Gaza Strip in recent days, following the breakdown of a ceasefire arrangement.
Acting Prime Minister Julia Gillard said today that Australia strongly supported calls for an immediate halt to the violence.
"The Australian Government also urges Israel, Hamas and other militant groups to make every effort to avoid causing further suffering to innocent civilians," she said.
Ms Gillard said the Government would give an extra $5 million worth of aid and stood ready to give more.
The assistance would help ensure Palestinians had adequate access to much needed basic goods, such as food and medical supplies, she said.
The aid will be delivered through multilateral agencies such as the United Nations Relief and Works Agency.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is strongly advising Australians not to travel to the Gaza Strip or the West Bank.
Source: The Australian
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