UK's Brown: Situation in Gaza a "humanitarian crisis"

By JPOST.COM STAFF
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has called the situation in Gaza a "humanitarian crisis" and called for the international community to help build the framework for an "immediate and sustainable ceasefire," a statement issued by the British Embassy in Israel said Tuesday. Speaking to journalists in 10 Downing Street, Brown said he was hopeful that the basis for a ceasefire, providing assurances to Israel over security and securing an open border under international supervision for Palestinians in Gaza, could be found. Brown said the ongoing hostilities marked the "darkest moment" for the Middle East and had to be tackled through international engagement. Brown also said the agreement on a ceasefire would require action over the construction of tunnels and arms trafficking into Gaza as well as an end to Israeli military action and rocket attacks by Hamas terrorists.