“It is vital that the agreed ceasefire in Israel and Gaza is respected by both sides. It is devastating that civilians have once again been caught up in the latest escalation of violence, and 15 Palestinian children have been killed. It is paramount that humanitarian assistance in the coming days is allowed to reach the civilians in Gaza who are in desperate need.     

It is also imperative that this ceasefire acts as a broader move towards negotiations for a lasting peace. Innocent civilians on both sides have been trapped in endless cycles of violence. The international community must do more to bring an end to the cycle of violent conflict by working for a return to negotiation for a genuinely viable two-state solution.”

ENDS