Although there has been some easing of the situation affecting those living in Gaza, there remains well documented concerns by Congressmen in the US, who have recently urged President Obama to alleviate the blockade. The Congressmen urged Obama to put pressure on Israel to ease the movement of people into and out of Gaza, especially students, the sick, aid workers, and to allow the import of building materials to rebuild houses. Israel has warned that such materials would be used to rebuild Hamas infrastructure and not civilian
homes.

The Israeli Embassy in Washington responded by stating “The Israeli position is that the Hamas government in Gaza does not meet the conditions set forth by the international community and the Quartet. And as long as Hamas continues to attack Israel with missiles and other means, Israel will not open the border crossings. Israel is doing everything possible to ensure that humanitarian aid enters Gaza, but Israel will not allow a neighbour that calls for its destruction to enjoy the benefits of an open border.”

An encouraging meeting took place recently between a senior member of the Palestinian movement Fatah and members of its rival Hamas  in the Gaza Strip.  Following the meeting, Ayman Taha, a senior Hamas official, said “I think this meeting opened a horizon on which bilateral relations between Fatah and Hamas can move forward, and can be a step towards achieving national reconciliation”.

The recent heightening of tension between Iran and Israel brought about a friendly warning from President Obama who opposes a pre-emptive Israeli attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities.  Chairman of the the US Joint Chief of Staff, Admiral Mullen, speaking in Tel Aviv, warned of the unexpected consequences of an Israeli attack on Iran. Vice President Joseph Biden is to visit Israel shortly to pass on a similar message.