Photo by Paul Jeffrey.
More than 300 people — including 57 civilians — have been killed in the recent Israeli Palestinian conflict in Gaza.
Action by Churches Together (ACT) has warned of a dramatic escalation of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza if Israel, Hamas and other militant groups do not cease the current hostilities and avert a new military conflict.
"The humanitarian consequences for innocent civilians will be even more grave than they already are if all parties do not immediately end all attacks and begin a new ceasefire," said John Nduna, Director of ACT International, the global faith-based humanitarian alliance of churches and related agencies. PDA is a member of ACT.
ACT and ecumenical partners working in Gaza report that they are responding to emergency needs as the situation develops. "Gaza was already in a desperate situation before this increased conflict, with a significant lack of food, medicine, fuel and electricity. All commodities are in scarce supply," said Dirk Van Gorp, the Jerusalem, West Bank and Gaza Country representative for ACT member International Orthodox Christian Charities.
"Continued hostilities will only further threaten human life and aggravate future prospects of peace," added John Nduna. "Israeli airstrikes must end along with further threats of increased military action. Palestinian militant groups must cease all current and future attacks on Israel."
"While there are reports that Israel has opened up some access for humanitarian convoys into Gaza, continued, increased and unfettered humanitarian access is absolutely essential to save lives threatened by the direct and indirect effects of the escalating conflict," he said.
"Political leaders in Israel and Gaza must rise up to their political and social responsibilities to protect innocent civilians and avert a much more serious humanitarian catastrophe," said Christer Åkesson, co-moderator of ACT International.
PDA is in communication with ACT and other partners and will assist in responding to humanitarian needs as possible. |
