Humanitarian peak welcomes Gaza ceasefire deal, urges long-term solution

The Australian Council for International Development (ACFID) today welcomes the ceasefire agreement in the Middle East, offering a moment of respite after 15 months of devastating conflict and loss of civilian life.

While this negotiation brings hope for civilians, it stresses the urgent need for sustained international efforts to deliver humanitarian assistance to Gaza and the immediate surrounding regions.

“The release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees is warmly welcomed and will ease the pain of those who have waited for so long for this moment.”

“This ceasefire is a critical step. After more than a year of unrelenting violence, humanitarian conditions in Gaza have reached catastrophic levels. Medical supplies, food, water, and shelter remain in desperate need,” said Naomi Brooks, ACFID’s Humanitarian Lead.

“While this agreement provides a window of hope, it must be followed by concrete actions to ensure a long-term solution and unimpeded, sustained humanitarian aid to those in need.”

“We are cautiously optimistic that this ceasefire marks the beginning of a more peaceful future for those suffering the most. We call on the Australian Government to work closely with humanitarian organisations to respond to urgent needs in the region and work toward a long-term solution that includes justice, accountability, and peace,” said Ms Brooks.

The Australian aid sector is working to offer assistance and protection to affected people in the region through ACFID’s Israel and Palestine Consolidated Appeal. Australians wanting to help can donate to organisations via ACFID’s Consolidated Appeals Page.

All ACFID appeals have been checked and meet ACFID Code of Conduct requirements.

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact ACFID MEDIA at media@acfid.asn.au or call 0401 721 064.