Press briefing of the UNRWA on meeting with President Obama’s special envoy to the Middle East George Mitchell: “A basis for Hope”

A basis for hope

Gaza, 30 January 2009

George Mitchell, President Obama’s special envoy to the Middle East, visited UNRWA’s West Bank Field Office on the 30^th of January. Mr. Mitchell was given a briefing of the humanitarian situation in Gaza by John Ging – Director of UNRWA Operations in Gaza, Robert Serry – United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, and Lana Abu Hijleh – CHF International country director.

Mr. Mitchell thanked humanitarian agencies, in particular UNRWA and CHF for the work that they had done to channel assistance to the people of Gaza, and praised the ‘dedication and commitment’ of their staff. He also spoke of President Obama’s ‘deep concern’ about the recent loss of life and substantial suffering in Gaza and announced the donation of another $20.3 million to provide emergency food and medical assistance to the wounded and displaced in Gaza.

Mr Mitchell stated that the United States would ‘continue our efforts, in cooperation with others in the region and elsewhere’, but also said that the tragic violence in recent weeks was a ‘sobering reminder of the challenges at hand and the setbacks that will inevitably come.’ He reiterated the need to consolidate a sustainable and durable ceasefire while addressing the most immediate humanitarian needs and ended by reaffirming the United States’ commitment to ‘actively and aggressively seeking a lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians, as well as between Israel and its Arab neighbors.’ John Ging, following his briefing with Mr Mitchell, seemed optimistic ‘I now have a realistic basis for hope’ he said.

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