CAFOD update on West Bank and Gaza amid escalating Iran-Israel conflict

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Source: CAFOD

"We must not take our eyes off what is happening across the Occupied Palestinian Territory."

Since Friday, an intense military escalation has seen strikes on Iran and Israel hit residential areas, killing and injuring civilians - including children - and causing damage to civilian infrastructure.

There are real fears that this could lead to deeper regional conflict and further loss of life. CAFOD partner Caritas Jerusalem has now reopened their operations after offices were temporarily closed before the weekend for security reasons.

CAFOD calls on all parties to uphold their obligations under international law, to ensure the protection of civilians, and to urgently cease all military aggression.

Elizabeth Funnell, CAFOD's Representative for the Middle East, said: "Our partners are deeply concerned about the dire situation in Gaza and the increasing restrictions in the West Bank.

"Despite the broader escalation between Israel and Iran, we must not take our eyes off what is happening across the Occupied Palestinian Territory."

"Since Thursday, the Israeli military has imposed a closure on most Palestinian communities in the West Bank - no one has been allowed in or out. There are reports that Israeli settlers are taking advantage of the situation to attack Palestinians."

Anton Asfar, Secretary General of Caritas Jerusalem, said: "The military's operations - including airstrikes, sieges, and movement restrictions - have led to mass displacement and growing desperation. Rising settler violence and systematic obstruction of humanitarian aid are worsening an already dire situation."

Caritas Jerusalem stated: "As violence intensifies across the region, Caritas Jerusalem is standing firm in its commitment to deliver critical humanitarian aid, despite mounting challenges posed by ongoing airstrikes and movement restrictions.

"With air raid sirens still sounding across Israel and Ben Gurion Airport closed for a fourth consecutive day, the operating environment remains dangerous and unpredictable.

"Caritas Jerusalem's response stands as a testament to resilience and unwavering commitment. While diplomatic solutions remain elusive, Caritas Jerusalem's efforts continue to provide a lifeline to thousands in need-offering medical care, food, and dignity amid uncertainty and fear."

LINK

CAFOD: www.cafod.org.uk

Caritas Jerusalem: https://caritasjr.org/