Rev Dr Tim Pratt, Director Christian World Service. by Web Master

Agencies Urge Government Action for Gaza

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In the lead up to Christmas, 12 humanitarian agencies and the Council for International Development united in an urgent plea to New Zealand political leaders for the children of Gaza. Rev Dr Tim Pratt signed the letter on behalf of Christian World Service.

The signatories urged political leaders to mobilise international support for a permanent end to the conflict and efforts towards a lasting solution focused on peace.

To this end, the statement asked the government to insist on the protection of civilians and the upholding of international humanitarian law. It called for greater pressure to ensure humanitarian access into Gaza, the immediate safe and unconditional release of all Israeli hostages and an end to attacks on children. Drawing attention to the danger for civilians, the agencies asked political leaders to push the international community to demand that “safe zones” were truly safe. Noting the generous response from New Zealanders to public appeals, it asked the government to increase humanitarian support.

In early February the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Right Honourable Winston Peters announced a further grant of $5 million to assist people in Gaza and the West Bank. The grant was divided between the World Food Programme and UNICEF and increased the total New Zealand support to $15 million. New Zealand has contributed $1 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA)) for many years. Significantly, the Minister has not said that New Zealand will stop this funding.

On 15 February Prime Minister Christopher Luxon along with the Prime Ministers of Australia and Canada issued a statement expressing their concern over reports of Israel’s planned military operation in Rafah. Referring to the findings of the International Court of Justice the leaders called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and humanitarian assistance, The three countries reiterated support for a two-state solution.

The agencies expect a formal response shortly.

CWS partner, the Department of Service to Palestinian Refugees, has been able to provide medical and psychosocial care as well as emergency support through its Primary Health Clinic in Rafah.