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GENEVA, 28 December 2008--ACT International warns of a dramatic escalation of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, if Israel, Hamas and other militant groups do not cease the current hostilities and avert a new military conflict.
"The humanitarian consequences for innocent civilians will be even more grave than they already are if all parties do not immediately end all attacks and begin a new ceasefire," said John Nduna, Director of ACT International, the global faith-based humanitarian alliance of churches and related agencies.
ACT members working in Gaza report that they have the capacity to respond to emergency needs as the situation develops.
"Gaza was already in a desperate situation before this increased conflict with a significant lack of food, medicine, fuel and electricity. All commodities are in scarce supply," said Dirk Van Gorp, the Jerusalem, West Bank and Gaza Country Representative for ACT member International Orthodox Christian Charities.
"Continued hostilities will only further threaten human life and aggravate future prospects of peace," added Mr. Nduna. "Israeli airstrikes must end along with further threats of increased military action. Palestinian militant groups must cease all current and future attacks on Israel."
"While there are reports that Israel has opened up some access for humanitarian convoys into Gaza - continued, increased and unfettered humanitarian access is absolutely essential to save lives threatened by the direct and indirect effects of the escalating conflict," said Mr. Nduna.
"Political leaders in Israel and Gaza must rise up to their political and social responsibilities to protect innocent civilians and avert a much more serious humanitarian catastrophe," said Christer Akesson, Co-Moderator of ACT International.
ACT has a long history of humanitarian assistance and peace-building activities in the area.
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Action by Churches Together (ACT) International is a global alliance of churches and related agencies working to save lives and support communities in emergencies worldwide.
A man holds a placard during a protest against Israel's offensive in Gaza, in front of the Pantheon of Heroes in downtown Asuncion January 9, 2009. The placard reads, "Lugo breaks ...
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