The recent violence in the Gaza Strip was a stark reminder of the fragility of peace in the Holy Land. Caught in the crossfire, civilians suffered many losses and injuries over the eight days of fighting. Although there is currently a ceasefire in place, the population continues to experience the humanitarian impacts of living in a conflict zone, where violence can erupt at any moment, and insecurity is a constant shadow that looms over the potential for a better future.
November 29th is the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, and it is a moment to reflect on the hope for peace, justice and reconciliation for the region so that all those affected can live in dignity. On this day, Palestinian representatives at the United Nations will ask for a vote on a resolution in the U.N. General Assembly that would raise their status from that of non-member to observer.
Caritas Jerusalem has issued a statement in honour of this day. “Let us, on this International Day, reaffirm our commitment to translating solidarity into positive action. The international community needs to help steer the situation towards a historic peace agreement,” expresses Claudette Habesch, Secretary General of Caritas Jerusalem. Caritas Jerusalem has social, economic and humanitarian aid programs in the Holy Land, and has been responding to needs created by this latest crisis.
We invite you to read their full statement as a gesture of solidarity with those living through this political and humanitarian crisis.