Palestinian official dissatisfied with Israeli blockade measures

Palestinian liaison official Raed Fattouh said Wednesday that Israel has allowed jam and sweets into the Gaza Strip for the first time since the blockade was imposed. He added that the Palestinians expect the introduction of sodas and canned goods next week.

He noted that the measures do not constitute easements in the blockade and noted, "We want the blockade on textile, clothes, paper and office and school supplies lifted, mainaly we want (Israel) to allow the introduction of iron and cement, the really essential products." (Ali Waked)