The Palestinian NGOs Network (PNGO), the largest coalition of Palestinian civil society organizations, issues this urgent statement as the Israeli occupation continues its systematic and brutal assault on the very foundations of life and humanitarian response in the Gaza Strip.
In recent days, the world has witnessed a shocking escalation in the targeting of humanitarian infrastructure and personnel. The deliberate bombing of the headquarters of the (Palestinian Medical Relief Society (PMRS)) and the (Gaza Community Mental Health Programme (GCMHP)) represents not just an attack on buildings, but a direct assault on the healthcare and psychological well-being of a traumatized population. These institutions were beacons of hope, providing critical medical care and essential psychosocial support to thousands of Palestinians, including countless children suffering from the profound wounds of war. Their destruction is a war crime, calculated to maximize human suffering and break the spirit of our people.
Furthermore, the recent attacks on the humanitarian “Sumud Flotilla”. a peaceful mission aimed at breaking the illegal siege and delivering vital aid, underscores the Israeli occupation's blatant disregard for international law and its determination to isolate and collectively punish the Palestinian people in Gaza. These acts are part of a clear pattern of targeting anyone who seeks to bear witness or provide succor.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza City and across the Strip is beyond catastrophic. The healthcare system has been decimated, famine is spreading, and the population is subjected to continuous bombardment with no place of safety. The principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution, as enshrined in International Humanitarian Law, are being trampled daily.
In this dark hour, we welcome and express our full support for the courageous initiative announced by His Excellency Gustavo Petro, President of the Republic of Colombia, President Petro's commitment to submitting a "Uniting for Peace" resolution to the United Nations General Assembly is a vital and necessary step to bypass the paralysis of the UN Security Council, where the veto power has too often shielded the Israeli occupation from accountability.
The "Uniting for Peace" mechanism (General Assembly Resolution 377A) is a crucial tool to mobilize the international community to fulfill its responsibility to protect Palestinian civilians in both the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. We call upon all member states of the United Nations to support this resolution and take immediate, concrete measures to:
- Demand an immediate and permanent ceasefire and prisoner exchange.
- Ensure the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid, including food, water, fuel, and medical supplies, into and throughout Gaza.
- End the Israeli occupation’s impunity and hold it accountable for its war crimes and crimes against humanity.
- Provide international protection for the Palestinian people.
The time for statements of concern is over. The situation demands decisive action. We stand with President Petro and all nations of conscience who are prepared to act. The international community must unite for peace, for justice, and for the fundamental rights of the Palestinian people before it is too late.
About PNGO:
The Palestinian NGOs Network (PNGO) is an umbrella organization comprising over 140 Palestinian non-governmental organizations working across the occupied Palestinian territory in the fields of health, education, human rights, community development, and humanitarian assistance. PNGO is dedicated to strengthening Palestinian civil society and promoting the national rights of the Palestinian people.
