KUALA LUMPUR: Mercy Malaysia urgently calls for an immediate ceasefire to the ongoing Israel-Gaza war to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
In a statement today, Mercy Malaysia said it acknowledges US President Joe Biden's recent ceasefire proposal, emphasising the urgent need to halt hostilities.
The organisation highlighted the severe impact on civilians and the significant obstacles to humanitarian efforts resulting from the ongoing conflict.
"The escalating violence has resulted in significant casualties, widespread displacement, and the destruction of critical infrastructure.
"Medical facilities are overwhelmed, and access to essential services, including healthcare, food, and clean water, is severely restricted," read the statement.
According to the statement, the humanitarian crisis is deepening with each passing day, making a ceasefire an essential step to prevent further loss of life and to alleviate the suffering of those caught in the conflict.
The organisation stated that fully opening the border crossings to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid is imperative in addressing the urgent needs of the population.
"Our teams on the ground have witnessed first-hand the devastating impact of the conflict. Without a ceasefire, the delivery of essential medical care, supplies, and support is severely compromised," it read.
It said that a cessation of hostilities will provide a critical window for humanitarian organisations like Mercy Malaysia to operate safely and effectively, delivering life-saving assistance to the most vulnerable.
It noted that stopping the violence is the first step towards a sustainable resolution and the protection of civilian lives, and the international community must unite in supporting this proposal and ensuring that humanitarian principles guide all actions moving forward.
Mercy Malaysia remains committed to its mission of providing medical relief and humanitarian assistance, and we stand ready to support all efforts aimed at achieving peace and stability in the region.
Meanwhile, Israel has continued its brutal offensive on Gaza, despite a United Nations (UN) Security Council resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire.
More than 36,500 Palestinians have since been killed in Gaza, mostly women and children, and nearly 83,000 others injured, according to local health authorities.
Nearly eight months into the Israeli war, vast swathes of Gaza lay in ruins amid a crippling blockade of food, clean water, and medicine.
Israel stands accused of genocide at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which in its latest ruling has ordered Tel Aviv to immediately halt its operation in Rafah, where over a million Palestinians had sought refuge from the war before it was invaded on May 6.– BERNAMA
