Peace Needed for People of Palestine and Israel

Oxfam urges all parties to immediately end hostilities.

The escalation of violence in Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel in recent days is causing further devastation for people living there. This increase in violence is harming innocent civilians. Oxfam urges all parties to immediately cease military offensives.

People who were living in a sustained state of worry in a fraught situation now have major concerns when it comes to accessing basic services. As well as fearing for their lives, thousands of people are contending with a lack of power supply, limited access to food, water and basic services.

We are closely monitoring the humanitarian situation alongside our local partners and international organisations. We are also currently assessing the safety and well-being of civilians, Oxfam personnel and partners, especially in areas lacking adequate shelters and protection.

“We expect, if this continues even more urgent needs to support medical or health sector, we expect more deterioration in access to food, water, basic services,” says Fidaa Alaraj, Oxfam Food Security, Cash and Protection Coordinator in Gaza.

“What people need to understand is that Gaza is already in a fragile situation, is already forgotten in a way. People have been living in poverty due to the blockade,” says Najla Shawa, Oxfam's Regional Manager in Gaza. “Half the population is unemployed, and people are unable to pursue their
education.”

Fidaa continues noting that the recent events solidify unhealed trauma and mental health issues for people living in the area. “The events of today revive unhealed trauma,” she says. “Time is not allowed in Gaza, we don’t have time to heal.”

Oxfam has been working in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and Israel since the 1950s. Today, we work in the most vulnerable communities in Gaza, East Jerusalem, and the West Bank.

In total, we work with more than 60 Palestinian and Israeli partner organisations, improving the lives and livelihoods of communities hardest hit by poverty and injustice.