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Msps Diary Of A Factfinding Mission To Gaza

Scottish Parliamentarians Run Blockade of Gaza to Deliver Aid

Three members of the Scottish Parliament recently successfully ran the blockade of Gaza - described as the biggest prison camp in the world - in a small boat to deliver emergency medical aid and equipment to the besieged inhabitants. Pauline McNeill, Sandra White, and Hugh O'Donnell were part of an international delegation of European parliamentarians who bravely ventured 17 hours in an open boat on the Eastern Mediterranean to witness the humanitarian disaster unfolding in Gaza.

A Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

Almost one and a half million Palestinians have been under siege for the past two years since they democratically elected a government that the Israelis and the US didn't approve of. Described as the most densely populated and isolated part of the world, life in Gaza has become unbearable due to the ongoing siege.

First-Hand Account of Life in Gaza

The Scottish delegation was greeted by a large crowd and international press upon arrival in Gaza. The parliamentarians attended a rally on the beach where they expressed their support for the trapped Palestinians. Their first stop was the parliament in Gaza, where they heard from the legislative council who claimed to have been punished for choosing democracy, referring to the 2006 elections where Hamas was elected as the largest party.

Examining the Effects of the Blockade

The main mission of the delegation was to witness the impact of the blockade and explore ways to help the demolished economy, which has suffered losses of $45 million in the past year alone. With over 3,000 non-operational factories and an unemployment rate of 60%, the situation in Gaza is dire.

Challenges Faced by Fishermen and Families

A shocking issue brought to light during the delegation's visit was the regular shooting of fishermen, who are vital to the livelihoods of many Palestinians. Foreign nationals had been accompanying the fishermen to protect them, leading to increased fishing catch. The delegation also met with families whose sons had been imprisoned without contact or information on their whereabouts.

Infrastructure, Healthcare, and Education in Crisis

The delegation witnessed the devastating impact of the blockade on various aspects of life in Gaza. The inadequate infrastructure resulted in tragic incidents, such as the drowning of five people in effluent in Khan a Yunis, a large refugee camp. The hospitals were in a shocking state, lacking essential supplies and medicines, leading to the preventable deaths of patients. Additionally, schools were facing severe shortages of basic supplies like paper and pencils, forcing students to resort to writing on walls.

A Plea to the International Community

The Scottish delegation left Gaza with a sense of accomplishment for delivering medical supplies and facilitating the evacuation of eight individuals, including students who would now have the opportunity to study at UK universities and an elderly man who received treatment for a stroke and hoped to reunite with his family in Glasgow. They urged the international community to pay attention to the suffering of the ordinary people of Gaza and demand an immediate end to the illegal siege and blockade.

Hotels in Gaza: Accommodation Amidst Challenges

Despite the challenging circumstances in Gaza, there are still hotels that provide accommodation for both locals and international visitors. These hotels serve as essential infrastructure in supporting tourism, business, and humanitarian missions in the region. However, they too have faced their share of difficulties due to the ongoing blockade and political instability.

Adapting to Limited Resources

Hotels in Gaza have had to adapt to the limited availability of resources caused by the blockade. Basic essentials such as water, electricity, and fuel are often in short supply, which impacts the overall functioning of the hotels. Despite these challenges, hotel staff and management have worked hard to ensure a comfortable stay for their guests, often relying on alternative energy sources and innovative solutions.

Safeguarding the Hospitality Industry

The hospitality industry plays a vital role in supporting the local economy and job creation in Gaza. While the blockade has posed significant obstacles, hotel owners and operators remain resilient, continuously finding ways to keep their establishments operational. Their determination to provide a safe and welcoming environment for guests remains steadfast.

Promoting Tourism and Cultural Exchange

Hotels in Gaza not only offer accommodation but also play a crucial role in promoting tourism and cultural exchange. They provide guided tours, arrange visits to historical sites, and foster interactions with local communities. These initiatives contribute to a better understanding of the region's rich history, culture, and traditions.

Despite the hardships faced by the people of Gaza, hotels in the region continue to provide a haven for visitors while navigating the complexities caused by the blockade. Their perseverance is a testament to the resilience and determination of the local population to maintain some semblance of normalcy amidst ongoing challenges.

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