ActionAid Ireland is outraged by the staggering loss of 40,000 lives in Gaza

ActionAid Ireland today said it is outraged and heartbroken by the staggering loss of 40,000 lives in Gaza, 72 per cent of that figure women and children.

ActionAid Ireland CEO Karol Balfe said: “This is a number that is incomprehensible – every life lost is an individual tragedy. But this is not an inevitable tragedy. It is an ongoing atrocity, and it could have been prevented. Most governments across the world have refused to do the bare minimum to protect civilian life, and this is to our collective shame. We are losing confidence each day in the concept of justice in its entirety.”

Ms Balfe said ActionAid reiterates its call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, for all Governments to meet their obligations under international law, and for all available means to be used to ensure the safety and security of all civilians.

She said: “We call for the imposition of sanctions, including travel bans and asset freezes, on Israeli officials linked to alleged violations of international humanitarian law. Every day that you choose to avoid this as a reality, this death toll will keep rising until there is nobody left in Gaza alive.” 

Ms Balfe added: “Our partners are witnessing the devastating impact of this violence. Families are being torn apart, and innocent lives are being lost daily. We demand immediate action to stop the violence and hold the Israeli government accountable. The people of Gaza cannot wait any longer for justice, safety, and peace.“ 

Discover more about ActionAid here.