Gaza ceasefire deal: CARE International UK statement

"We welcome reports that a ceasefire in Gaza and a release of more hostages has been agreed. This agreement is just the first step in stemming the overwhelming tide of suffering. Palestinians have been killed on an incomprehensible scale. A ceasefire will offer respite from the relentless bombardment imposed by Israeli authorities, and every effort must now be made to ensure it is sustained and made permanent. It is crucial, also, that all parties to the conflict engage in the process in good faith to ensure the return of all hostages and arbitrarily detained to their families.

"With the population on the brink of famine, and the health system on its knees, it is critical that humanitarian assistance now flows into Palestine. Israeli authorities have long been obstructing aid from entering Gaza and the humanitarian system there has been weakened to the point of almost total collapse. Israel must allow immediate full and unrestricted humanitarian access across all parts of Gaza, so that organisations like CARE and Palestinian NGOs can ensure aid reaches those who are most vulnerable, particularly women and girls.  

"The UK Government, which has continued to sell arms to Israel, must now use all its diplomatic levers to ensure the ceasefire is fully implemented. Securing lasting peace will require an immediate end to the blockade and a commitment to pursuing accountability in adherence with international law. Any future political process must meaningfully include local Palestinian women's rights and women-led organisations. Women's leadership is crucial to the success of rebuilding and healing from the unimaginable horrors Palestinians have endured."