Washington, DC, Jan. 22 – The American Task Force on Palestine (ATFP) today called for an urgent ceasefire between Israel and militia groups based in the Gaza Strip, and an end to measures that threaten to impose a humanitarian crisis on the population in Gaza. In particular, ATFP called for an immediate end to the latest moves by the government of Israel including cutting of fuel supplies for Gaza's only electricity plant, and other restrictions threatening international aid supplies of food and medicine. ATFP urged the Bush Administration to use its leverage with the Israeli government to take urgent steps to avoid a humanitarian crisis.

ATFP stressed that while it is unacceptable for the civilian population of Gaza to be subjected to such illegal and harsh measures and collective punishment, all parties have responsibilities in easing the situation. Israel should take steps forthwith to lift the siege of Gaza, restore power and help ensure that international efforts to provide food and medicine to the population are not impeded.

Palestinian militia groups should immediately and permanently end all rocket attacks on Israel.

ATFP reiterates its earlier suggestion for the assumption of responsibilities for key border crossings, currently in the hands of Hamas, by the Palestinian National Authority with international assistance. This would be an important first step towards the restoration of law and order to the Gaza Strip and the resumption of normal functioning of these crossing points to the benefit of the civilian population.