Photo: Palestinian News & Information Agency (Wafa) in contract with APAimages
NGO network highlights need for protection of civilians, accountability and commitment to lasting peace
(LWI) - The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) and partners have called for unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza’s civilian population and a commitment to lasting peace in the region, following this week’s ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
The comments come in a statement issued on 22 January by the International Council for Voluntary Agencies (ICVA), a network of non-governmental organizations advocating for principled and effective humanitarian action.
The statement notes that since 7 October 2023, at least 48,200 people have been killed, including over 47,000 Palestinians and 1,200 Israelis, while “many more bodies are assumed to remain buried beneath the rubble that was once homes, hospitals, businesses and schools in Gaza.” Each life lost, the statement says, “highlights the profound human cost of this conflict and reinforces the critical need for peace.”
Five key priorities
While welcoming the ceasefire, the LWF and partners also emphasize five key priorities, which include full adherence to the ceasefire terms, unhindered humanitarian access with the lifting of blockades and the restoration of essential services such as water and electricity.
The protection of civilians and remaining infrastructure in Gaza such as hospitals and schools must also be a priority, the statement, says, insisting that “displaced Palestinians must be allowed to return safely to their homes and be fully supported in the recovery and rebuilding of their lives and livelihoods.”
Two final priorities include the urgency of holding accountable those responsible for war crimes, crimes against humanity and other violations of international law, as well as the need for a commitment to lasting peace which addresses the root causes of the conflict “including Israel’s illegal occupation of Palestinian territory.”
The path to lasting peace will require an unwavering commitment to humanity, dignity and justice.
Statement by the International Council for Voluntary Agencies (ICVA)
ICVA and its members affirm that they stand ready to support coordinated humanitarian efforts. They urge all stakeholders to engage local actors and work collaboratively towards a sustainable resolution for all affected communities. “The path to lasting peace,” they say, “will require an unwavering commitment to humanity, dignity and justice.”
