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June 12, 2024

HU Statement on the Ongoing Violence in Gaza

Humanity United calls on the Israeli government and leadership of Hamas to agree on – and implement – an immediate and permanent ceasefire. The Israeli government must also stop its blatant disregard for the lives of civilians, humanitarian aid workers, and journalists.

Humanity United calls on the Israeli government and leadership of Hamas to agree on – and implement – an immediate and permanent ceasefire. The Israeli government must also stop its blatant disregard for the lives of civilians, humanitarian aid workers, and journalists. Since our initial statement in November, the death toll in Gaza has increased significantly, with more than 36,000 people killed and around 1 million people displaced, and a disproportionate toll on women and children. The region now faces a looming famine with half the population – about a million people – potentially facing death and starvation by mid-July.

In recent weeks, the government of Israel escalated the violence against civilians in the southern city of Rafah, an area which it designated as a “safe zone”, and where more than one million Palestinians sought refuge. In the last week, the government also continued its bombardment of refugee camps in central Gaza, killing more than 200 Palestinians during a raid that resulted in the rescue of four hostages. The Israeli government’s disregard for Palestinian lives must end immediately.

Today, the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel found Israeli authorities responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during military operations and attacks in Gaza since October 7. The Commission also found Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups responsible for war crimes committed in Israel.

Amidst these tragedies, we recognize that there is an opening for a long term end to this ongoing violence. The United States government, allied governments, and international institutions must do more to condemn the Israeli government’s violations of International Humanitarian Law in its response to the tragic events of October 7. The international community must also put greater pressure on both parties to accept a permanent ceasefire, release all hostages, and ensure the safe delivery of humanitarian aid. As the primary supporter of Israel and largest provider of its munitions, the United States government has played a role in perpetuating violence; however there is an opportunity to change course. All of us must demand safety, accountability and justice, which are critical to achieving lasting peace for the people of Israel and Palestine.

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