Furious humanitarian chief claims Hamas used its citizens as shields
Wednesday 28th January, 2009
United Nations Humanitarian Affairs Chief John Holmes has accused Hamas of cynically using civilians as shields in the recent hostilities in the Gaza Strip.
Holmes told the UN Security Council: "The reckless and cynical use of civilian installations by Hamas and indiscriminate firing of rockets against civilian populations are clear violations of international humanitarian law."
Israel also came under fire for firing on UN facilities during Operation Cast Lead.
Israel has always claimed Hamas gunmen used the facilities as places from which to snipe at Israeli troops.
Holmes urged Israel to reopen the border crossings to allow large quantities of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip and told Hamas not to interfere.
Wednesday 28th January, 2009
United Nations Humanitarian Affairs Chief John Holmes has accused Hamas of cynically using civilians as shields in the recent hostilities in the Gaza Strip.
Holmes told the UN Security Council: "The reckless and cynical use of civilian installations by Hamas and indiscriminate firing of rockets against civilian populations are clear violations of international humanitarian law."
Israel also came under fire for firing on UN facilities during Operation Cast Lead.
Israel has always claimed Hamas gunmen used the facilities as places from which to snipe at Israeli troops.
Holmes urged Israel to reopen the border crossings to allow large quantities of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip and told Hamas not to interfere.