As those of you who have read my ‘Glimpses into the life of a global nomad, part nine’ (https://themuslimtimes.info/2017/08/24/glimpses-into-the-life-of-a-global-nomad-part-nine/) may recall by the grace of Allah I held the position of Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration, Jordan and Iraq.

Around 2006 I made an effort to launch an assistance project in Gaza. I contacted possible funding partners in Kuwait and the UAE. They signaled agreement but, rightly, were doubtful whether the Israelis would give me access.

Innocently I thought that, as the International Organization for Migration had done many things for Israel they should in exchange at least give access to any project organized by me.

Ah, totally silly of me. Before I even could officially request the Israelis for access their spies here and there found out about my plans and instructed my big boss in Geneva to stop my efforts forthwith, which he did.

Ah well, just saying. Even before the present conflict nothing got into Gaza without permission of the Israelis. As Putin says, there is no difference between the Nazi’s blockade of St. Petersburg and the Israeli’s blockade of Gaza.

Your Associate Chief Editor