Gaza, January 31, 2010, ( Pal Telegraph ) - The Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture said in a statement that shortages of fuel and natural gas are leading to a food crisis in the Gaza Strip. In addition, the ministry has warned that the "food basket" of Gazans -- agriculture, fishing and livestock -- is in jeopardy after wells, machines, poultry farms and canning factories stopped operating due the lack of electricity and fuel.
Poultry and egg farms have had to shut down because of the lack of electricity and natural gas, depriving Gazans of white and red meat since chickens also cannot be brought in via the crossings. In addition, wells powered by electricity have stopped working in various parts of the Strip, causing a shortage of water needed to irrigate large farms.
Meanwhile, wheat mills have shut down and hundreds of boats remain stuck in Gaza port due to the lack of fuel and natural gas.
The ministry called on international organizations to support the Palestinians and demand an end to the siege.
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