Last week Israel declared the Gaza Strip a "hostile entity", because of the continuing rocket attacks coming from across the border. This declaration means that Israel can cut essential services (e.g. water and electricity supplies) to the 1.5 million people of Gaza.

UN General Secretary Ban Ki-Moon said that it would be contrary to international humanitarian law for Israel to do this; all Gaza's fuel, including diesel, petrol, and natural gas, comes from Israel, and around 62.5 per cent of Gaza's electricity is provided directly by Israel.

Oxfam has publicly condemned the move, with a letter published in The Times newspaper:

"Sir, Israel's decision to declare Gaza "hostile territory" and cut supplies threatens to escalate a crisis that for months has been gravely exacerbating the humanitarian situation.

"No matter what crimes are committed - and indiscriminate rocket attacks on Israeli citizens are a crime under international humanitarian law - collective punishment cannot be allowed.

"Israel remains the occupying power in Gaza, as it retains the effective control of the territory. Attempting to divide Gaza from the West Bank stands in direct contravention of international peace agreements and Israel's own stated goal of securing a two-state solution.

"The responsibility to protect civilians must be the central consideration of all parties, including the Middle East Quartet meeting this Sunday. The quartet must find the political will to end the economic blockade of Gaza and open the main commercial crossing point at Karni. Economic development and the free flow of humanitarian assistance are essential building blocks for peace."

BARBARA STOCKING,
Director, Oxfam GB
> letter in The Times