A disgraceful statement to make

The recent statement by an Egyptian minister that his country would "break the legs" of Gazans who might attempt to again breach the border is both appalling and unjustified. Palestinians who flocked to the Egyptian border town of Rafah following a blast that opened a hole in the wall separating Egypt and the Gaza Strip were desperate. Gazans live in virtual imprisonment, imposed by the Israeli occupation. They are being denied access to food and basic services, like electricity and heating fuel. Their movements are restricted and all crossings are sealed, including the one controlled by Egypt, due to Israeli and American pressure.

It was natural for the Palestinians to look to Egypt for help. It is after all the largest Arab country and a traditional supporter of Palestinians in their struggle for freedom and independence. For three days, Egyptian authorities allowed the Gazans to shop in border towns and move freely between the two territories. This was the natural thing to expect from Egypt, described by the Arabs as "the Passionate Mother" [of all Arabs]. Thus it is unfortunate, and indeed abhorrent, to threaten to break the legs of those who would in the future seek the help of their "mother".