No end to Gaza crisis
Although the Palestinians said they were hopeful the main cargo crossings could open after more meetings today, the area’s economic misery looked likely to deepen as Hamas militants sworn to Israel’s destruction presented their new Cabinet to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
The Islamic group’s failure to bring moderate forces into its government is likely to strengthen Western resolve to cut off desperately needed aid.
American officials called an emergency meeting with the Palestinians and Israelis to try to resolve the border crossing standoff, saying Palestinian humanitarian needs must be addressed.
The vital Karni cargo crossing between Israel and Gaza has been closed for most of the past two months, shutting down almost all exports and imports for the poverty-stricken seaside territory.
Palestinians charge Israel is punishing them for the Hamas victory, but Israel insists it is keeping the crossing shut because of warnings of terror attacks.
