Palestinians form human chain in anti-Israel Gaza protest
Palestinian protestors have formed a human chain in the Gaza Strip
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Monday, 25, Feb 2008 12:56
Palestinians protesting against an Israeli blockade have formed a human chain along roads in the Gaza Strip.
As a result Israel has deployed troops at border crossings with Hamas-controlled Gaza.
Hundreds of women and children formed a chain this morning at the start of a peaceful protest, expected to involve some 50,000 people, against Israel's ongoing blockade of the region.
The 1.5 million Palestinians currently living in Gaza are being forced to rely on dwindling foreign aid and supplies while the blockade continues.
The Popular Committee Against the Siege, which is organising today's protest, claimed it hoped the chain would stretch the length of the Gaza Strip.
Jamal al-Khudary, the head of the Palestinian group, claimed there were no plans to approach the border fence though.
"We hope all the participants will abide by the instructions and we will try to prevent any violations," he said.
Israel's defence and foreign ministers released a joint statement claiming that they would defend its territory at all costs.
"Hamas is behind activities that place the civilian population on the front lines," the statement from Ehud Barak and Tzipi Livini said.
"Israel is acting to prevent an escalation but makes it clear that if it does happen the responsibility falls squarely on the shoulders of Hamas."
Hamas blew a hole in Gaza's border wall with Egypt last month, leading to hundreds of thousands of Palestinians crossing the border to collect food and other goods.