5/12/2008 — As the humanitarian situation in Burma continues to
deteriorate, it is critical that the United States and the international
community do everything possible to get humanitarian assistance into the
country to save lives.

The Burmese junta has blocked international efforts, prevented humanitarian
workers from distributing assistance, and insisted that the junta control
aid distribution itself.

uThe Bush administration must work urgently and at the highest levels with
other governments that have leverage with Burma to persuade its rulers to
allow aid to reach those in need without interference.

The United States should continue to press for access to deliver assistance
directly. Equally important, the Bush administration should work through
friends and partners in the region, including India, Japan, and Thailand. We
should also provide aid, logistical, and other support to international
organizations already on the ground.

While I welcome reports of some increase in the delivery of humanitarian
assistance, including the arrival of the first American aid flight, we must
make it clear to Burma’s military rulers that the international community
will hold them responsible if they refuse to meet their international
obligations by blocking access and aid to the people of their country who
are in dire need. We cannot allow politics to obstruct the delivery of
assistance that can prevent this grave humanitarian situation from getting
worse.

Source: Hillary Clinton campaign