RAMALLAH, 17 December, 2024 – Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) and other Humanitarian organizations express a profound concern over the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza, as highlighted in the recently released Humanitarian Access Snapshot #8. CMEP urges the international community to act decisively to alleviate the suffering of Gaza’s people and uphold the principles of human dignity and justice. The report reveals that Israel's military offensive has resulted in catastrophic humanitarian impacts. As of December 3, 2024, more than 44,786 Palestinians have been killed, over 106,000 have been injured, and more than 10,000 individuals remain missing, presumed to be buried under rubble. Approximately 90 percent of Gaza's population, amounting to 1.9 million people, has experienced multiple displacements, leaving most of the population without permanent shelter. The devastation has been so severe that Joyce Msuya, acting UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, described Gaza as “unfit for human survival.” The situation is further compounded by severe restrictions on aid. In November, an average of only 65 humanitarian trucks entered Gaza daily, compared to the 500 trucks per day allowed prior to October 7, 2023—a number already insufficient to meet the population’s needs. The report highlights continued fuel shortages, attacks on aid workers, and worsening weather conditions that threaten the survival of 1.6 million displaced individuals. The report also sheds light on the ongoing targeting of humanitarian workers, with 343 confirmed deaths since October 7, 2023. The crisis has driven 91 percent of Gaza’s population into acute food insecurity, with over 16 percent currently enduring famine conditions. Looting and attacks on aid convoys have further exacerbated the desperation of Gaza’s people, as the collapse of public order has created dangerous conditions for both civilians and humanitarian workers. Mae Elise Cannon, Executive Director of CMEP, stated, “The level of devastation in Gaza is unfathomable. These are not just statistics; they represent lives, families, and communities destroyed. As people of faith, we must advocate for a compassionate and urgent international response to end the violence and suffering in Gaza.” CMEP calls for immediate action to address this unprecedented crisis. First, it is imperative that all parties implement an immediate ceasefire to halt hostilities and allow unimpeded humanitarian aid to reach those in need. Additionally, the Israeli government must fulfill its obligations under international humanitarian law by ensuring safe passage for aid and aid workers. The international community must provide adequate funding and resources, including support for winterization plans and the delivery of essential supplies, to address the dire needs of Gaza’s displaced population. Finally, CMEP urges governments to hold all parties accountable for violations of international law, ensuring the protection of civilian lives and the upholding of human rights. Churches for Middle East Peace reaffirms its commitment to advocating for peace and justice in Gaza and calls on people of faith and conscience worldwide to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people during this time of unparalleled crisis. You can read the full report HERE or below. |
