According to the UN, half of the population in Gaza is threatened with famine. If massive amounts of emergency response If allowed in, famine will threaten large parts of the population.

Since October , at least 36,000 people have been killed and more than 8,000 children have been treated for acute malnutrition. Despite reports that food is being delivered to Gaza, there is no evidence that it is actually reaching those who need it most.

There is an urgent need to end the war. An immediate ceasefire must be put in place. All hostages and arbitrarily detained persons must be released. And the delivery of humanitarian aid must be unhindered. This requires Caritas Europe in a statement , on behalf of its 49 member organizations.

We are deeply concerned about the violence that does not seem to be ending. The recent Israeli attacks on Rafah and Nuseirat are worsening an already dire humanitarian situation. At the same time, food distributions by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and other local organizations in Rafah have come to an end due to the closure of the border crossings and the lack of new supplies. The civilian population is completely dependent on aid and is finding it even more difficult.

The UN Security Council resolution on a ceasefire is a step in the right direction, but it requires implementation by both sides. To achieve this, all arms deliveries to Israel must end. Caritas Europe calls on the EU to use humanitarian diplomacy and all other necessary measures to ensure respect for international humanitarian law, so that a complete and immediate ceasefire can be achieved. In this regard, we welcome a review of the EU-Israel Association Agreement.

The fact that several EU countries have resumed funding for UNRWA is positive. But it is not enough. In order for people to get the help they need, Israel must reopen all border crossings. This is the safest and most effective way to deliver food, fuel and medical supplies to trusted humanitarian organizations.

Caritas is also deeply concerned about the situation in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, where more than 500 Palestinians and 12 Israelis have been killed since October 7. Other challenges include the demolition of homes, restrictions on freedom of movement, and loss of livelihoods.