(Bagnolet, January 25, 2023) As the war waged by the Israeli occupation on the Gaza Strip enters its 106 days, La Via Campesina stands in solidarity with the people of Gaza, who are enduring an unimaginable humanitarian crisis. This war of annihilation has resulted in over 25,000 casualties, more than 62,000 injured, and over 8,000 missing – a staggering 4% of Gaza’s population. This alarming statistic paints a horrifying picture of the situation in Gaza, a region where life’s essential elements have vanished, leaving its people in a relentless search for safety.

Further compounding this dire situation is the blockade at the Rafah crossing. Over 15,000 trucks loaded with desperately needed food, water, and medical supplies are prevented from entering Gaza. Only a few hundred trucks have been allowed passage, leaving most stranded at the border. This blockade represents a shameful use of starvation as a weapon against civilians, a blatant violation of human rights.

The Israeli occupation’s actions have led to the near-total destruction of more than 75% of Gaza, either wholly or partially. Families fleeing for safety are repeatedly targeted, increasing the likelihood of death from successive attacks. The ruthless use of starvation as a weapon by the Israeli occupation highlights a disgraceful strategy against civilians.

As we approach the onset of Ramadan, beginning in early March, the situation in Gaza grows even more critical. The historical escalation during this period, combined with the massive food shortage, indicates that the war will intensify and spread, including into the West Bank, which is already experiencing unprecedented operations of killing and destruction by the occupation.

La Via Campesina urgently calls on the international community to intervene and save over 5 million Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank from the dangers of starvation, death, and killing. We demand an end to the occupation, accountability for Israeli war criminals, and that they not be allowed to evade justice as in the past.

We urge the free world nations to follow South Africa’s example by initiating legal action against the occupation in international courts, particularly the International Court of Justice. This is crucial for imposing complete isolation on the Israeli state, forcing it to retreat and stop the war.

We must unite our efforts and intensify our voices to end this war and prevent its spread in the coming months.

For the Right to Live in Peace, Justice, and Dignity

Related posts:

La Via Campesina’s Statement on the Historic ICJ Ruling Regarding Genocide in Gaza La Via Campesina calls on the CFS to take immediate measures to fulfill its institutional mandate as Gaza faces an imminent risk of starvation Access to Food in Gaza: The Bleak Intersection of Genocide and Food Inaccessibility La Via Campesina Denounces Israeli Aggression in Gaza and Stands in Solidarity with Palestine