Middle East Urgent Plea: 28 Nations Unite for Immediate Gaza Ceasefire

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In a dramatic global appeal, 28 countries have united to demand the immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza. This united front accuses Israel of inadequately providing humanitarian aid, insisting it comply with international laws. The initial message, issued on July 21, emphasised the dire suffering of Gaza's civilians and called for an end to the conflict.

 

The original appeal, signed by 25 nations, has now been expanded to include Greece, Malta, and Cyprus, as of July 22. The statement criticises Israel's aid strategies, describing them as dangerous and degrading. It insists Israel allow sufficient aid to reach Gaza and meet its humanitarian obligations.

 

Israel maintains that it supplies adequate assistance; however, international bodies continuously highlight shortages. Reports reveal severe malnutrition throughout Gaza, underscoring the ongoing humanitarian crisis. In response, Israeli spokesperson Oren Marmorstein claims the international appeal misplaces blame and fails to hold Hamas accountable.

 

The Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health recently reported that attempts to secure food resulted in the deaths of 81 Palestinians and the injuries of 150 others near the Gaza-Israel border. The Israeli Defence Forces acknowledge firing but refute the casualty figures, citing an ongoing review. Meanwhile, UNICEF reports that deaths from malnutrition have reached alarming levels.

 

The joint statement explicitly condemns the continued detention of Israeli hostages by Hamas. UNICEF urges Hamas to release the children and calls on all parties to agree to a ceasefire. The statement reflects international frustration, demanding a permanent end to the conflict while supporting ongoing mediation efforts by the US, Qatar, and Egypt.

 

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee criticised the joint appeal for misaligning pressure, suggesting that Hamas bears sole responsibility for Gaza's plight. His remarks fuel an already tense diplomatic atmosphere.

 

The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, expressed grave concern over the deteriorating humanitarian conditions, highlighting the collapse of essential services. He urged all sides to prioritise civilian protection and ensure food and medical supplies reach those in need.

 

Pope Leo XIV reinforced global peace appeals, urging an immediate end to hostilities during a recent public address. His voice adds moral authority to international efforts aimed at ceasing the violence.

 

As the conflict persists, the global coalition of nations stresses the urgency of unrestricted humanitarian access into Gaza. Their call for cooperation encompasses international support for a political solution, open dialogue, and enduring peace.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from ABC News 2025-07-23

 

 

[Yagoda]

Yeah well there are hostages to rescue so continued shooting is fine. Cease fire upon a release of hostages and white flag

[gargamon]

Lock Netanyahu up in the Hague for the outstanding ICC charges and this whole mess would be over in a couple of weeks. 

[JonnyF]

Easy to say when it wasn't your young people slaughtered at a pop concert and it's not your people being held as hostages.