Since the events of October 2023 that started the conflict, the Government of Israel declared a “total siege” on Gaza. The conflict has displaced almost 90 percent of the population and severed Palestinians in Gaza from water, food, shelter, electricity, fuel, and other vital supplies. People in Gaza have faced starvation, death, and disease.
The ceasefire agreement announced on January 15th, 2025, if fully implemented, should end the bloodshed in Gaza and allow for immediate and unhindered humanitarian access. This would include food and medical assistance reaching those in dire need.
Oxfam is calling for all parties to the conflict and United Nations members to
Ensure the swift and full implementation of the ceasefire;
Uphold commitments to end the blockade on Gaza and the occupation of the Palestinian Territory;
Facilitate unrestricted humanitarian access to avert famine;
Commit to supporting the rebuilding of Gaza immediately in an inclusive, equitable and sustainable manner centered on the needs and voices of Palestinians.
The head of Oxfam’s humanitarian response, Clemence Lagouardat, has been working in Gaza since the ceasefire was announced in mid-January. "I am seeing thousands of people moving out of their tents and shelters, many on donkey carts,” she reported to colleagues. “After 15 terrible months, people are finally able to search in the rubble for lost family members to bury and mourn as they begin the almost impossible task of rebuilding their lives and recovering Gaza.
"The ceasefire must hold so that not one more life is lost and free and safe movement of humanitarians is guaranteed in order to deliver aid where it is most needed. Bodies must continue to be recovered from the rubble, unexploded bombs cleared, and buildings declared safe or not."
