Kerem Shalom open today - even as Israel bombards Gaza

COGAT sent this out to press wires earlier today:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials discuss aid to Gaza with international organizations 

December 28, 2008

A delegation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Deputy Director General for Economic Affairs Irit Ben-Abba, Dep. DG for UN and International Organizations Eviatar Manor, and Head of the Bureau for Middle East Economic Affairs Yael Ravia-Zadok – met today with representatives from UNSCO, UNRWA, the Red Cross and WHO for the purpose of estimating the humanitarian needs in the Gaza Strip and ensuring the entry of the required aid, especially food and medical equipment. The Ministry officials assured the representatives of the international organizations that every effort would be made to transfer the necessary humanitarian aid.

In response to a request made by the international organizations, the Kerem Shalom Crossing was opened for the delivery of truckloads of food and medical equipment. The aid was donated by UNRWA, WHO and the Red Cross. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working in coordination with COGAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories) to transfer needed aid to the Gaza Strip, in accordance with instructions from the Minister of Foreign Affairs.