Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

This is consistent with Ireland's long-standing support to the Palestinian people. I am also pleased that the EU has clearly stated it will continue to provide all the necessary assistance to meet the basic needs of the Palestinian people. EU assistance will be continued with the establishment of a temporary international mechanism to channel assistance directly to the Palestinian people. This will bring total EU aid to the Palestinian people so far this year to €259 million.

Israel responded to the international pressure for humanitarian aid. On 2 July it opened two border crossings to allow the passage of food and fuel.