IN recent weeks, the world has witnessed devastating attacks on the Palestinian population, which demand immediate action. We are deeply perturbed by the events unfolding in Gaza. We stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people, who have endured more than seven decades of Israeli oppression, apartheid rule, military occupation, mass murder and the confiscation of land and property.

Our primary appeal is for the championing of a global call for all involved parties to implement an immediate ceasefire (which is now in force), halt the war and release hostages. Israeli forces, especially, must cease all forms of attacks and killings in hospitals and surrounding areas, schools, mosques, churches, and civilian residences. Regardless of religion or ethnicity, we remain steadfast in the belief that every life has the right to live in peace. The deaths and suffering of innocent civilians in this conflict are a painful reality that compels us to act.

The heightened violence dispensed by Israel against civilians is utterly unacceptable in light of international human rights obligations, which should be upheld even in conflict situations. This chaos renders it imperative for us to urge all parties, especially governments in influential and humanitarian nations, to unite in demanding an end to this war and the immediate implementation of a ceasefire in Gaza to prevent more innocent lives from being taken.

Tragically, since October 7, at least 14,854 lives, including 6,500 children and 4,000 women, have been lost due to Israeli attacks in Gaza, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry and the Palestine Red Crescent Society (at 1.29am on November 24). All this highlights the extremely urgent humanitarian situation.

It is crucial for us to unite with one vision, one identity, and as one community to advocate for the preservation of humanity as Malaysians who love peace and value the preservation of human life.

We also call on the government to exert diplomatic pressure on all relevant governments to cease funding of the ongoing war and the continuous supply of weapons, taking a stand against the atrocities committed by Israel in Palestine.

In an immediate response to the humanitarian crisis, we appeal for assistance in the form of medical supplies, psychological support for children affected by war, and the immediate opening of borders for the unimpeded flow of essential resources such as food, water, and fuel.

Recognising the importance of financial support, we encourage donations through credible and trusted charities actively contributing to Gaza’s humanitarian relief efforts. Finally, we will continue to keep Gaza in our every thought and prayer. – November 27, 2023.

* Endorsed by Pertubuhan Ikram Malaysia and 27 civil society groups.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.