Former IDF Deputy Chief of Staff Major-General (retired) Dan Harel, who also served as the southern district commander, calls the current relationship between Israel and Gaza �absurd�.

Harel explains �we must change the equation� since rockets are fired from Gaza into Israel and in return, we furnish Gazans with all their needs. �We carry Gaza�s needs on our backs� he told reporters.

Harel calls for ending the embargo on Gaza, which he feels harms Israel�s international image, thereby permitting goods to enter into the Hamas controlled area and removing all accusations of humanitarian violations by Israel.

Secondly, Israel must cut water and electricity from Gaza towards �bringing an end to the absurd situation�.

(YWN � Israel Desk, Jerusalem)