Il più conosciuto era John Kerry, ex candidato alla presidenza degli Stati Uniti. Ma assieme a lui, in un tour mediorientale conclusosi da pochissimo, c’erano altri due senatori democratici che hanno trascorso, la scorsa settimana, un’intera giornata a Gaza a vedere di persona cos’era successo. Risultato: Brian Baird, senatore dello stato di Washington, ha chiesto di riconsiderare l’aiuto militare che gli Stati Uniti forniscono a Israele, dice il Jerusalem Post. Un aiuto a dir poco consistente, e che dal 2007 è inquadrato in un accordo decennale secondo il quale Washington si impegna a fornire 30 miliardi di aiuti. Brian Baird ha assunto toni inusuali, per i membri del Congresso americano, riguardo a Israele.
“The amount of physical destruction and the depth of human suffering here is staggering” said Baird, “Entire neighborhoods have been destroyed, schools completely leveled, fundamental water, sewer, and electricity facilities hit and relief agencies heavily damaged. The personal stories of children being killed in their homes or schools, entire families wiped out, and relief workers prevented from evacuating the wounded are heart wrenching – what went on here, and what is continuing to go on, is shocking and troubling beyond words.”
Inquiring about the status of relief efforts, the Congressmen learned that some aid material has been allowed in since the intensity of the attacks lessened a month ago, but much is still being blocked by the Israeli defense forces. Examples of aid that has been banned by the Israeli Government include: lentils, macaroni, tomato paste, lentils and other food. Basic building materials, generator fuel and parts to repair damaged water treatment equipment have also been kept out.
“If this had happened in our own country, there would be national outrage and an appeal for urgent assistance. We are glad that the Obama administration acted quickly to send much needed funding for this effort but the arbitrary and unreasonable Israeli limitations on food and repair essentials is unacceptable and indefensible. People, innocent children, women and non-combatants, are going without water, food and sanitation, while the things they so desperately need are sitting in trucks at the border, being denied permission to go in” said Baird and Ellison.