The fighting in Gaza must stop - no ifs, no buts
7 January 2009
The news item that's dominated the front pages since the start of the year is the conflict that has broken out in Gaza.
With the situation continuing to escalate, thousands of people are now struggling to get by with limited access to medical care, running water, and food.
We've been running an appeal since the fighting broke out - raising money that will help pay for emergency supplies.
Thanks to your generous support, those caught up in the conflict are beginning to receive the assistance they need. But little of our emergency work can really begin until the fighting stops - an unconditional ceasefire is needed, and it's needed now.
With a total ceasefire in place, vital humanitarian assistance can be delivered. Civilians on all sides can feel safer. And negotiations for a long-term solution for both communities can begin.
With pressure form you, the UK Government and the EU will feel they need to press harder to secure a comprehensive ceasefire.
Starting today, Oxfam has joined Christian Aid, Save the Children, Avaaz, and many other organisations in calling for this to happen. Whatever your opinion on who's responsible, you can sign up and demand an end to the suffering.
Comments:
Many people, including our leaders, oppose in principle the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories and the brutal bombardments of recent days. But they do not act. Without the unconditional support of the western world that it currently receives, Israel's position will be weakened and it will need to negotiate with its neigbours for a long term peaceful solution. It is time to withdraw this support.
Richard Hewitt | January 9, 2009 11:24 AM
Israel's merciless action is not only causing heartbreaking suffering, but can only be increasing the desire for further violent revenge. (This is true whatever provocation they may point to.) Ordinary people on both sides of this conflict long for peace. For their sake, there must be an immediate ceasefire. This is not something that the rest of the world can watch without making the strongest possible protest
Christina Le Moignan | January 8, 2009 9:47 PM
I am disgusted at Israel's invasion of Gaza and continuous unrelentless bombing which has resulted in incredible deaths to civilians......especially the children. It is disgraceful! this must stop.
Kuldip Mangla | January 8, 2009 2:51 AM