The international development agency Christian Aid has welcomed news Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire in Gaza but warns “returning to the old status quo will doom Palestinians and Israelis to more tragedy.”
William Bell, Head of Middle East Policy & Advocacy at Christian Aid, said:
“At long last, this news will offer people in Gaza respite from the relentless bombardment, displacement and deprivation they have endured for the last two years.
"It is good for the hostages, ending the torment for them and their families, and it is a recognition of the massive scale of aid that is now needed in Gaza.
William Bell added: “While some will claim this as a historic day, the litmus test will be addressing the root causes of this conflict. Returning to the old status quo will doom Palestinians and Israelis to more tragedy.
“A sustainable peace is more than the absence of violence. It means ending the occupation of all Palestinian territory - including the West Bank and East Jerusalem – full accountability and treating Palestinians and Israelis as equals.
“As our partners move to upscale our humanitarian response, we appeal to world leaders to provide the energy, commitment and principle needed to deliver justice, dignity and prosperity for all.”
Hani Askari, who works for Christian Aid's partner, Palestinian Centre for Human Rights, told the charity he “can't find the emotions to fit”. Hani said:
“Part of it is relief and the other part is a heavy ache,” the 35-year-old who is displaced from northern Gaza and currently living in Deir Al-Balah, said.
“There's a sea of pain that doesn't get traded or released.
“Yes, hope flickers for a moment but the exhaustion, the loss, and the fear will still sit deep inside.”
Christian Aid's local partners are providing psychological support, medical relief and community-led initiatives such as food, shelter, sanitation and cash. Thanks to the generosity of Christian Aid supporters, Christian Aid has raised over £2.2m and helped nearly one million people.
ENDS.
Notes to editors:
William Bell, Head of Middle East Policy & Advocacy at Christian Aid, is available for broadcast interviews. Please contact mediacomms@christian-aid.org.