UN launches Gaza aid appeal
Published:Thursday | January 29, 2009 | 2:30 PM
The United Nations has launched an appeal for $613 million to help people affected by Israel\'s military offensive in Gaza.
The appeal aims to cover the requirements of the UN and other aid organisations for the next six to nine months and will provide everything from medical care to clean water.
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon said the funds would be used to help overcome at least some measures of hardship.
He said an appeal for longer-term needs would be launched later.
The Israeli offensive in Gaza left about 1,300 Palestinians dead, including 412 children.