January 22, 2008

Press Statement

The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued the following statement:

The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) strongly condemns the latest step of cutting off fuel supplies to the Gaza Strip by Israel. This blockade violates all international and humanitarian norms. Israel is treating the 1.5 million people in Gaza worse than a colonial power.

The United Nations should immediately intervene and take steps to penalise Israel and see that the blockade is lifted.

The UPA government is keeping a shameful silence on this criminal blockade by Israel. It is instead collaborating with Israel to enhance its military capability. The launch of an Israeli satellite TecSar from Sriharikota shows how India is aiding the military efforts of Israel. The satellite has a capability to track activities in Iran and the region.

The UPA government should demand an end to the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip forthwith. It should call for an urgent Security Council session to discuss the matter.