International development agency, Christian Aid, fears the UN Security Council resolution on humanitarian aid for Gaza falls far short of the permanent ceasefire necessary to provide desperately needed supplies.
The vote comes as the United Nations warns Gaza is at risk of famine if the war between Israel and Hamas continues. "No-one in Gaza is safe from starvation," Cindy McCain from the UN's World Food Programme (WFP) has said.
Since 7 October, over 20,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza. 70% of those killed are believed to be women and children. 1,200 Israelis have also been killed while 128 remain as hostages [OCHA].
Christian Aid’s partners in Gaza are responding with medical relief and community-led initiatives such as food, shelter, sanitation and cash. This includes building mobile bathrooms in four shelters and working alongside local farmers to get fresh vegetables for families that have left their homes to escape airstrikes.
William Bell, Head of Middle East Policy and Advocacy at Christian Aid, said:
“International demands for greater humanitarian access to Gaza will be welcome news to Palestinian civilians in Gaza surviving through relentless bombardment, extreme hunger and disease.
“Be in no doubt, however, the UN Security Council has fallen short of backing a ceasefire. Only a permanent ceasefire can safely deliver the scale of humanitarian aid required. Pressure must also be kept up until the unconditional release of all hostages is agreed.
“Ultimately, the cycle of violence and mass killings will not end, and innocent people will continue to pay the price, until Palestinians and Israelis are treated as equals and the occupation of Gaza, and the West Bank is ended.”
ENDS.
