“Ceasefire essential to prevent further suffering”
(LWI) - The leaders of 15 United Nations (UN) and humanitarian agencies including the Steering Committee for Humanitarian Reswponse (SCHR), of which the LWF is an active member, have issued an urgent call for the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers as the crisis in Gaza reaches critical levels.
“The entire Palestinian population in North Gaza is at imminent risk of dying from disease, famine and violence,” they declare in a statement released on 1 November. They condemn the relentless violence that has plunged North Gaza into devastation, cut off aid, and trapped families in dire need.
A ceasefire is essential to prevent further suffering and uphold humanity.
Ms Caroline Tveoy, Head of International Programs
“We are witnessing an unspeakable humanitarian crisis,” says Caroline Tveoy, LWF Head of International Programs. “Civilians and humanitarians must be protected, and safe access to life-saving assistance ensured. A ceasefire is essential to prevent further suffering and uphold humanity.”
Risk of catastrophe
The situation has become more urgent after the Israeli parliament adopted legislation that would ban the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and revoke its privileges and immunities. “There is no alternative to UNRWA,” the leaders emphasize. They warn that implementing such measures would be a “a catastrophe for the humanitarian response in Gaza, diametrically opposed to the United Nations Charter, with potential dire impacts on the human rights of the millions of Palestinians depending on UNRWA’s assistance, and in violation of Israel’s obligations under international law.”
The statement calls for several immediate actions: a ceasefire, safe access for humanitarian aid, an end to attacks on hospitals, schools, and shelters, and the release of all hostages and unlawfully detained people.
For more information, read the Inter-Agency Standing Committee statement
The Augusta Victoria Hospital is a center of medical excellence in East Jerusalem, serving all 5 million Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza. Its specialized services include comprehensive cancer and diabetes care, kidney care and dialysis, skilled nursing and long-term care, as well as ear, nose and throat and other specialty surgeries. Augusta Victoria Hospital is accredited by the Joint Commission International for its outstanding quality. Patients are referred to the AVH by the Palestinian Authority.
Augusta Victoria-Hospital is calling for donations to support the additional accommodation cost of patients and staff from Gaza and the West Bank, who cannot return home, and for medical supplies to treat people injured in the conflict.
