B’Tselem welcomes the deal, but the catastrophe persists

We welcome the ceasefire and hostage release deal signed between Israel and Hamas.

However, the catastrophe persists. Millions of people in Gaza remain destitute, starving, and homeless.

A ceasefire is only the first step, and one that should have happened long ago. There is a real concern that Israel will resume fighting after the first phase of the deal is complete.

The international community must do everything in its power to demand Israel stop the war completely and permanently. Beyond a lasting ceasefire that includes enough humanitarian aid for the entire Gaza Strip, its residents must be allowed to return to all parts of Gaza.

Israeli decision-makers responsible for serious violations of the laws of war and for crimes against humanity must be held accountable, and all Israeli violence against the Palestinian people in the entire area between the Jordan and the Mediterranean must cease.

The only way to break the cycle of bloodshed is to end the occupation, oppression, and apartheid regime and ensure the human rights of everyone living in this space.

B’Tselem