INTERSOS Urges Immediate Ceasefire in Occupied Palestinian Territory on World Children’s Day

As the world celebrates World Children’s Day and honors the UN Declaration of the Rights of the Child, we call for an end to the unprecedented killings of civilians. This includes the tragic deaths of over 4,500 children in Gaza and over 30 children in Israel. The International Humanitarian Law is being directly and constantly challenged, despite promises of “never again.” Civilian infrastructure, such as homes, hospitals, schools, churches, and mosques, should not be targeted by military offensives.

The medical services in Gaza are struggling to cope with thousands of sick and wounded individuals, including children, suffering in inhumane conditions. A humanitarian pause is not sufficient to address the tremendous suffering of the 2.3 million civilians trapped inside Gaza. The only way to stop civilian deaths, enable the provision of essential humanitarian assistance, and reestablish basic services such as fuel, electricity, and clean water is through an agreement to a ceasefire.

It is crucial that all hostages are unconditionally released. We must put an end to this nightmarish situation in Gaza immediately. The ongoing violence is causing immense suffering and must be stopped now. It is time for peace and stability for all people involved in this conflict.

We urge governments around the world to take action against those responsible for these atrocities against innocent children and civilians alike. We cannot stand idly by while innocent lives continue to be lost.

It is time for a change in policy towards peace instead of conflict resolution through force.

As we celebrate World Children’s Day let us remember that every child deserves a safe home free from violence and danger.

Let us come together as one global community to demand justice for these innocent victims and bring about lasting peace for all people involved in this conflict.

We cannot allow this cycle of violence to continue any longer!