Oxfam reaction to renewed violence in Gaza:

Humanitarian Advocacy, Media Releases, News article written on the 08 Aug 2014

The failure to extend the ceasefire will cost more lives and further endanger innocent civilians who deserve much better from their political leadership, Oxfam said.

The past month has devastated families, destroyed much of Gaza, and created a humanitarian emergency of enormous scale.

Hundreds of thousands of people in Gaza lack safe shelter, and virtually everyone is in need of water, power, and other essential services.

Head of Oxfam in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel, Nishant Pandey, said the violence was intolerable and must stop now.

“Both sides have failed repeatedly to tackle the underlying causes of the conflict, including ending Israel’s blockade of Gaza, and finally negotiating the just and lasting peace that Palestinians and Israelis deserve,” Mr Pandey said.

“The conflict between Palestinians and Israelis will not end militarily, it requires a political solution that begins with a lasting ceasefire, an end to the blockade of Gaza, and a negotiated peace based on international law.”

For interviews or more information, please contact Angus Hohenboken on 0428 367 318 or angush@oxfam.org.au